Our own journey began nearly 200 years ago in the heart of Yorkshire, where we’ve honed our craft and nurtured a family tradition of brewing excellence. Our Theakston Old Peculier beer takes its name from an even older institution, The Peculier Court of Masham, established in medieval times, the origins of which were steeped in crime! So our sponsorship of the world’s greatest gathering of crime writers and fans was a natural choice.
The Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival has grown from humble beginnings to become a highlight of the literary calendar. Since 2003, it’s been the go-to event for lovers of whodunits, thrillers, and all things mysterious, offering fans a unique opportunity to hear from the biggest stars of the genre.
Mark your calendars because this year is no different. From the 18th - 21st July Harrogate is the place to be. Whether you’re a seasoned crime fiction aficionado or just dipping your toes into the genre, pack your bags, and prepare to dive into a world of mystery. The Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival is held at the Old Swan Hotel in Harrogate and being a globally renowned event, attracts visitors and authors from all over the world. Appearing as this year's special guests, Richard Osman, Erin Kelly and Abir Mukherjee, showcase the strength and talent of crime-writing authors from across the globe. Richard Osman, author of the No1 best selling ‘The Thursday Murder Club’ series, will be returning to the festival for the second year running to discuss all things murder and share some exclusive crime-writing tips and tricks.
The crime writing festival is also host to the ‘Theakston Old Peculier Crime Novel of the Year Award’, one of the UK and Ireland’s most prestigious prizes for crime fiction. Presented by our very own Simon Theakston, the winner will receive a cash prize and an engraved oak beer cask, hand-carved by one of Britain’s last coopers from Theakston Brewery. Want to get involved? Head over to the Harrogate Theakston Crime Award website for your chance to vote for who you want to see take home the coveted title this year.
Make sure to join us at the Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival 2024 and experience the perfect blend of tradition, innovation, and storytelling.