Bradford Literature Festival concluded this weekend after attracting 187,366 visitors across ten days of programming in the newly regenerated city centre. The 2025 edition featured 752 events and 524 artists, reinforcing the festival's mission to challenge outdated perceptions of Bradford during its UK City of Culture year.

The festival opened with appearances from beloved actors Celia Imrie, Larry Lamb, and Griff Rhys Jones, alongside food writers Grace Dent and Nisha Katona launching the Big Tasty Read in partnership with BBC Arts. Literary celebrations included events marking the 100th anniversary of The Great Gatsby and 250 years since Jane Austen's birth.

Standout performances included poet John Cooper Clarke delivering his signature works, including I Wanna Be Yours, before sharing an exclusive new poem. Speaking with Nihal Arthanayake, he reflected on his career with characteristic humour, remarking: "I could go to seven funerals a week, but no man can live on vol au vents alone."

Poet Lemn Sissay OBE returned to deliver the prestigious Free Word Lecture, drawing on his experiences in care and the evolving role of love in his work. Jeremy Corbyn joined Professor Paul Rogers for a vital conversation on the global arms race and pathways to peace, while photojournalist Seamus Murphy explored 20 years of change in the West Bank through his exhibition.

The festival's education programme welcomed 31,695 children and young people across 65 sessions, working with 69 schools to deliver curriculum-targeted content. Free family activities in City Park included space-themed adventures and a wizarding wonderland finale.

"I'm thrilled to see Bradford Literature Festival continue to grow, reaching new audiences while deepening our connection with those who return year after year," said Founder and Artistic Director Syima Aslam. "This year has reaffirmed BLF's role as one of the UK's most vital cultural platforms."

The festival highlighted Bradford's cultural richness, with travel writer Ben Aitken rating the city 7.6 out of 10 in his latest book and encouraging people to embrace what Bradford has to offer.w.bradfordlitfest.co.uk/