Programme for Gryffe Valley Book Festival is unveiled

The Gryffe Valley Book Festival will take place from September 11–19, featuring a packed programme of events across Renfrewshire and Inverclyde, including headline talks by well-known writers and broadcasters.

This year’s festival will open with an evening featuring acclaimed wildlife filmmaker and presenter Gordon Buchanan, who will be in conversation with broadcaster Nicola Meighan about his career and latest book, In the Hide.

Other highlights include an appearance by bestselling author and Traitors star Harriet Tyce on September 16, in an event chaired by poet and performer Len Pennie.

Events will be held throughout the week across a variety of venues, including libraries, primary schools, and community centres.

A full schedule for the festival has been announced, with events taking place each day.

On September 12, Philip Paris will appear in conversation with Suzy Aspley at the Carrick Centre in Houston.

Gavin Bell will also be in discussion with Alex Kane, while younger readers can enjoy Bookbug: Gruffalo Granny at Bridge of Weir Library.

Children’s events at the Carrick Centre on September 13 will include storytelling and workshops from Maisie Chan, Gary Chudleigh, and David MacPhail.

Other featured guests during the week include Lorna Elcock, Jess Mills, and Sophie Gravia, with discussions covering both fiction and non-fiction.

The festival will also continue its focus on encouraging young readers through a schools programme.

This will feature appearances from Jenna Reid of the Blazin’ Fiddles and children's author Mike Nicholson.

The organisers of the festival have named Renfrewshire Carers Centre as their charity partner for 2026.

The group has supported unpaid carers across Renfrewshire for more than 30 years, and the festival will help raise funds to support its work throughout the week.

The festival’s sponsors include Scottish Leather Group and Altrad Babcock.

Its support helps keep the event accessible to a wide audience.

One of the final events on September 19 will be a pop-up from The Ginger Cat Bookshop at Three Sister's Bake in Quarrier’s.

The schedule promises a "diverse" lineup of speakers and activities to engage readers of all ages.

Physical programmes will soon be available at shops and cafes throughout the area, and tickets for all events can be booked via Eventbrite.