The Penarth Literary Festival returns this weekend with a new format and a new home, bringing a packed weekend of author talks, family events and poetry to Belle Vue Park Pavilion.

Organised by Griffin Books, Penarth’s award-winning independent bookshop, the Festival will take place from Friday 19 to Sunday 21 June, with all Saturday and Sunday events hosted at Belle Vue Park Pavilion on Albert Road, just a stone’s throw from the shop.

This year’s programme once again features a diverse line-up of writers, journalists, performers and illustrators. Hightlights include: BAFTA Award-winning actress Kimberly Nixon discussing her memoir She Seems Fine to Me; Welsh authors Jon Doyle, Catrin Cadogan and Meredith Miller appearing in the Fiction Showcase; travel writer Monisha Rajesh exploring the enduring appeal of the night train; Welsh neuroscientist and author Dr Dean Burnett unpacking some of the biggest neurological misunderstandings of our time; Claire Lynch discussing her Nero Award-winning debut novel, A Family Matter; and writer Emily Garside taking us on a personal tour through the LGBTQ+ icons who have shaped Welsh history and culture.

Political journalist Will Hayward will discuss his new book Who Cares About Wales? in an event that sold out in record time, while the festival will conclude with the popular Poetry Showcase, hosted by Katherine Stansfield and Stephen Payne.

The programme also includes a range of events for younger readers. Families can enjoy a special Storytime session with author and illustrator Rhian Wright, meet Julia Donaldson favourite Postman Bear, and join broadcaster Lucy Owen and illustrator Rebecca Harry for an interactive event celebrating their new book, Forest Girl.

Mel Griffin, owner of Griffin Books, said: “This year’s festival is all about bringing people together through a shared love of books, reading and ideas. We’re excited to be making Belle Vue Pavilion our new Festival venue, and hope visitors will spend the weekend enjoying not only the events themselves but also soaking up the atmosphere and everything the local area has to offer.”

For the full programme and tickets, visit griffinbooksevents.co.uk. Tickets can also be purchased in person from Griffin Books, 9-9A Windsor Road, Penarth.