For lovers of classic crime fiction, there can be few better places to celebrate the life of the Queen of Crime than the place where it all began. Returning to Torquay from 12 to 20 September 2026, the Agatha Christie Festival promises nine days of immersive events, fascinating talks and memorable experiences across the English Riviera, making it an appealing addition to any group's autumn itinerary.
Held annually close to Christie's birthday on 15 September, the festival has been delighting visitors since 1990. The 2026 programme is especially significant, marking the centenary of The Murder of Roger Ackroyd, the 50th anniversary of Christie's final Miss Marple novel, Sleeping Murder, and 50 years since the author's death. Together, these milestones provide the backdrop for what organisers believe will be one of the biggest festivals yet.
The opening Fringe Festival invites visitors to explore locations closely connected with Christie's life and stories. Highlights include a journey on the Dartmouth Steam Railway, famously featured in both The ABC Murders and Dead Man's Folly, followed by a cruise along the picturesque River Dart.
Another memorable experience takes place beneath the surface at Kents Cavern, where visitors can enjoy atmospheric cave cinema screenings and guided tours through the prehistoric cave system that inspired Hampsley Cavern in The Man in the Brown Suit. Elsewhere, exclusive after-hours access to Christie's beloved holiday home at Greenway offers a rare glimpse into the author's private world, while Ugbrooke House hosts an evening of music and dancing at the venue where the young Agatha Miller first met Archie Christie.
The programme also explores Christie's remarkable contribution during the First World War. In partnership with the British Red Cross, Torquay Town Hall will host What Agatha Did in the Great War, combining expert talks, specially commissioned films and a traditional tea dance accompanied by the South Devon Big Band.
From 16 September, attention turns to the Literary Festival at Torre Abbey, where some of the biggest names in contemporary crime writing join leading Christie historians for discussions, interviews and special events. A dedicated Roger Ackroyd Day celebrates one of the author's most influential novels, while visitors can hear from bestselling writers including Lucy Foley, Robert Thorogood and Ben Miller, alongside Christie experts Dr John Curran, Martin Edwards and Ian Bishop. Fashion historian Amber Butchart, author Cathy Rentzenbrink and Tina Hodgkinson also feature in a varied programme exploring Christie's life, legacy and enduring influence.
The festival attracted around 8,000 ticket holders from more than 30 countries in 2025, underlining its international appeal and its importance to the English Riviera's visitor economy. For coach operators and group organisers looking for a themed break combining literature, heritage, beautiful coastal scenery and unique experiences, the 2026 Agatha Christie Festival offers a compelling reason to head to Devon this September.
For further information and tickets, visit www.englishriviera.co.uk.