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Stratford Literary Festival
A celebration of words, ideas, and shared stories—Pragnell is proud to support the Stratford Literary Festival, a cultural fixture that brings world-class voices to Stratford-upon-Avon and enriches the community year after year.
As a sixth-generation, family-run jeweller with deep roots in the town, we believe that craft and culture belong together: both are built on heritage, creativity, and the human desire to make meaning that lasts.
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About the Stratford Literary Festival
The Stratford Literary Festival is a prominent literary event held in Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, welcoming thousands of visitors each year across a spring programme and a shorter autumn series.
From celebrated author talks and debates to workshops and community events, the Festival brings together internationally recognised writers, presenters, and emerging talent—creating a programme as thoughtful as it is entertaining.
A Literary Charity with Local Impact
The Festival is a registered charity encouraging a love of books and writing. Since 2008, it has grown from a single spring weekend into a bi-annual programme, with a strong commitment to supporting literacy and wellbeing locally.
Beyond headline events, the Festival’s work extends into the community—through outreach in schools, projects with older people, and writing workshops in prisons—ensuring the benefits of reading and creativity are shared widely.
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Pragnell’s Partnership: Supporting Stratford’s Cultural Life
Our flagship showroom has been located in the heart of Wood Street, Stratford-upon-Avon, since 1954. By supporting this pivotal cultural event, we aim to help the local community thrive, attract visitors to the area, and contribute to the wider local economy.
Pragnell has proudly supported the Stratford Literary Festival since 2023—an expression of our longstanding belief that heritage towns flourish when their arts, education, and community initiatives are championed.
Explore our Stratford home and discover our story
Festival highlights (2025)
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Spring Festival 2025
Celebrating Jane Austen at 250
In May 2025, Pragnell was delighted to sponsor Mishal Husain, who discussed her Sunday Times bestselling memoir, alongside acclaimed actors Juliet Stevenson and Sally Phillips, as they marked the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen’s birth in an event titled “By a Lady: A Celebration of the Wit of Jane Austen.”
Autumn Festival 2025
The Autumn Festival took place from 30 October to 2 November 2025, featuring speakers including Graham Norton, John Cleese, Lyse Doucet, Tony Robinson, Joanna Page, Baroness Brenda Hale, and many more.
This year, Pragnell was delighted to sponsor two events:
• Graham Norton presented his latest novel—spanning post-war Ireland and 1960s New York—through the story of Frankie Howe, whose past resurfaces when a young caregiver arrives to assist her recovery.
• The BBC’s Chief International Correspondent, Lyse Doucet, discussed her new book exploring five decades of Afghanistan’s history through the lens of Kabul’s Inter-Continental Hotel.
Spring Festival 2026
An exciting program has been announced for this year's Spring Festival, which will take place from 7th to 10th May 2026.
Confirmed speakers include Philippa Perry, Mark Kermode, Antony Beevor, Ardal O’Hanlon, Sophie Raworth, Larry Lamb and many more!
This year, Pragnell is delighted to sponsor two events:
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Maggie O’Farrell
Bestselling author of the global phenomenon Hamnet and Patron of the Stratford Literary Festival, Maggie O’Farrell, joins the program for a special event at this year’s festival, as she presents her newest novel. Set against the backdrop of the great Ordnance Survey project in mid-nineteenth-century Ireland, this evocative story explores upheaval and loss through the experiences of one family. 'Land' is a powerful tale of separation and reunion, tragedy and recovery, colonisation and rebellion.
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Prue Leith
Prue Leith—renowned cook, businesswoman, and former Bake Off judge—offers an honest and humorous exploration of ageing. Through memoir and reflection, she reveals the realities and joys of growing older, tackling questions about beauty, friendship, fitness, and family with candour. Her energetic story challenges taboos, celebrates unexpected moments, and encourages embracing ageing in all its aspects.
FIND OUT MOREWhy Cultural Partnerships Matter to Pragnell
At Pragnell, we are custodians of craft: preserving artistry, championing skills, and celebrating the stories that shape who we are. Supporting the Stratford Literary Festival is part of a broader commitment to community, education, and cultural heritage—values that sit naturally alongside our dedication to enduring workmanship.
Learn more about our commitments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are the answers to our most commonly asked questions. Should you want to find out more please feel free to Contact Us and begin your Pragnell experience.
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