Graham Greene International Festival 2025

The 26th Graham Greene International Festival will take place in Berkhamsted from 25-28 September. Britain’s leading novelist of the twentieth century, Graham Greene is also the town’s most famous resident. His books, plays and films continue to have a grip on readers and audiences, and the festival, a cheerful, friendly event, attracts visitors from around the world.

The son of a headmaster of Berkhamsted School, Greene recalled a troubled childhood and eventually ran away to the Common, with an intention never to return home. His writings often refer to life in the town, and in later years he would come back for unpublicized visits. His spy novel The Human Factor, on which there will be a presentation, is set mainly in Berkhamsted, with important scenes on the Common.

This year the festival welcomes as a very special guest Armando Iannucci (pictured), the world-renowned comedian, writer, and broadcaster, who will be sharing his thoughts on an author who has fascinated him for many years.

Other presentations will address Greene’s long love affair with Catherine Walston, the making of his film The Third Man, and the troubles in Mexico that led to his writing of The Power and the Glory. According to festival director Richard Greene all presentations are designed to be accessible, informative, and entertaining.

For film lovers, there will be screenings of two films based on Greene’s novels, Ministry of Fear (1944) and Brighton Rock (2010), both introduced by the engaging and knowledgeable Mike Hill.

The sentimental highlight of the Festival will be a birthday toast to Graham Greene by his grandson Jonathan Bourget.

The events will take place at The Civic Centre, The Town Hall, and Berkhamsted School.

Tickets and further information are available at: grahamgreenebt.org