Folkestone: Exploring Jan Morris

Sara Wheeler's interest in Jan Morris's life began with a deep appreciation for Morris's remarkable literary career, which spanned journalism, history, and travel writing. Wheeler's own background as a travel writer and biographer made her the perfect candidate to explore Morris's life in her portrait, Jan Morris: A Life.

• Wheeler will discuss Morris's life, drawing on unprecedented access to Morris's papers, family, and friends, offering a unique insight into her adventures and literary achievements. • The event will be chaired by Simon Richmond, an award-winning travel writer, editor, and photographer with a passion for adventure and storytelling. • Through this discussion, attendees will have the opportunity to rediscover Morris's reflections on place, identity, and belonging, which remain powerful and relevant today.

The event will take place on Sunday, 22 November 2026, at the Quarterhouse in Folkestone. Tickets are on sale with the button beside the article. This event is part of the Folkestone Book Festival, a two-week celebration of stories, ideas, and conversation that brings together world-class writers, thinkers, and storytellers to Folkestone, making it an exciting literary destination.