We’re big advocates of swapping scrolling for something more stimulating, which is why the FT Weekend Festival is on our summer agenda. On Saturday 5 September, the event takes over the gardens of Kenwood House for a day of big ideas, culture and discovery across ten stages. The festival is an opportunity to experience the iconic pink paper come to life, bringing together leading thinkers, politicians, writers, actors, chefs, designers and a former head of MI6 to speak. It’s a line-up built to spark curiosity from every angle.
This year’s speakers include Richard E. Grant, Angela Hartnett, Jeremy Hunt, Mary Beard, Peter Capaldi, Fiona Shaw, John Sawers, Avril Haines, Alain de Botton, Paul Smith and many more. Each of the ten stages is curated by FT journalists, so you can expect sharp thinking and news-worthy insights. On the Big Ideas stage, you will find live discussions with the FT’s editorial board and a conversation between designer Paul Smith and actor Peter Capaldi.
On the Food & Drink stage, Jancis Robinson will run her annual wine tasting, and Yotam Ottolenghi and Jay Rayner will join discussions on the art and pleasures of home cooking. Over on Arts, Es Devlin explores what makes an image an icon and the House & Home stage will feature Tom Dixon’s views on Beds, Britishness, Business and Brexit.
Come and solve a live cryptic crossword with a special guest appearance from Josh Wardle, the creator of Wordle. Extras include a champagne bar, tasting sessions, and a Waterstones bookshop where the authors sign whichever read you’ve just bought. Eleven years in, the FT Weekend festival has become one of London’s best days out for curious minds. Whether you come for your favourite speaker, a day out with friends or the chance to learn something new, you’re guaranteed to enjoy a great day out.
KEY INFORMATION
When | Saturday 5 September 2026
Where | Kenwood House Gardens, Hampstead Lane, Hampstead Heath, London NW3 7JR
Tickets | General pass £219 + VAT · FT subscriber pass £189 · Student pass £66 · Digital pass £109.
Groups | From £591 for three, up to 25% off for six
For more information | ft.com/festival
15% Off Tickets for LOTI readers | Sign up to get
