Opening Night: Sir Tony Robinson

Few figures have delighted British audiences for as long, or with such warmth, wit and infectious curiosity, as Sir Tony Robinson. Actor, broadcaster, bestselling author and one of the nation’s most beloved storytellers, he has spent decades entertaining us. Launching this year’s Folkestone Book Festival, Sir Tony will discuss his new novel, The House of Wolf. Rich in intrigue, atmosphere and medieval drama, it draws readers into a world of ambition, loyalty and survival, combining Robinson’s lifelong fascination with the past with his gift for unforgettable storytelling. From the comic brilliance of Baldrick in Blackadder to the enduring success of Time Team, Sir Tony has become one of Britain’s most cherished cultural figures, inspiring generations to look more closely at the landscapes, places and hidden histories around them. Endlessly engaging, Sir Tony reflects on storytelling, history, writing and a remarkable career spanning more than five decades. This promises to be a fascinating and unforgettable opening to the 2026 Folkestone Book Festival. This event will be chaired by Sophie Haydock, an award-winning novelist, journalist and curator with a lifelong fascination for history, art and the extraordinary lives of people who might otherwise be forgotten. Her debut novel, The Flames, brings to life the women who inspired artist Egon Schiele, while her second, Madame Matisse, explores the remarkable women in the life of Henri Matisse. A former journalist at The Sunday Times, Sophie has written for The Guardian, Financial Times and many others. She is Curator of Books, Ideas & Community at Creative Folkestone, where she leads Folkestone Book Festival. Passionate about making history feel vivid, surprising and gloriously human, she’s delighted to be turning the tables and asking Sir Tony Robinson a few questions about the past! Folkestone Book Festival is our annual celebration of stories, ideas and conversation by the sea. Curated by novelist Sophie Haydock (The Flames, Madame Matisse), this year’s festival brings together more than 60 events across two weeks, welcoming world-class writers, thinkers and storytellers to Folkestone. Discover another event, browse the bookshop, explore Folkestone’s vibrant arts scene, independent cafés, bars and galleries, and share the experience with a friend. The best festivals are as much about the conversations between events as those on stage. The Festival is part of Folkestone is a Library, our ambitious town-wide celebration of reading, writing and storytelling, helping make Folkestone one of the UK’s most exciting literary destinations. We believe great conversations should be for everyone, which is why every event includes a £5 Cost of Living Ticket, available with no questions asked. Please help us spread the word. Together, we’re building a thriving community of readers, writers and curious minds. Folkestone Book Festival is proudly supported by Eurotunnel, Canterbury Christ Church University, Holiday Extras, and the Friends of Folkestone Book Festival. Creative Folkestone is supported by Arts Council England, Folkestone & Hythe District Council and Saga. Founding Funder The Roger De Haan Charitable Trust.