The city of Chester is bracing for its first-ever Festival of Ideas, which is set to run from in July.

The highly anticipated four-day event, organised by the University of Chester alongside its partners, brims with almost 100 diverse events guaranteed to entertain, inform, and inspire participants of various ages and interests.

Previously unheard of, the Festival of Ideas has quickly gained ground as a summer highlight, with activities scheduled across various venues in Chester.

Guests can look forward to an array of attractions, including discussion panels, theatre, interactive activities, music, pop-up exhibitions, readings, guided walks, and much more.

The full details and bookings are accessible on the Festival of Ideas website www.festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk.

Renowned speakers at the festival include GP and menopause specialist Dr Louise Newson and broadcaster, writer, campaigner, and parliamentarian Baroness Floella Benjamin, a recipient of an OBE and DBE, as well as a Doctor of Letters from the hosting university.

Dr Louise Newson will be at the event   (Image: Dr Louise Newson)

Historian, writer, and filmmaker Professor David Olusoga sits on the speaker list, alongside Chancellor of the University of Chester Dr Gyles Brandreth and Pulitzer-nominated journalist Carole Cadwalladr.

Highlighting the festival’s educational value, participating schools will demonstrate student-led initiatives, such as Millview School’s argument on climate change, and Grosvenor Park Academy’s up-cycling workshop.

The festival is hosting a rich array of language-themed activities, featuring topics such as Old English, Taylor Swift’s accent, and speaking chimpanzee.

It also offers an opportunity for animal lovers to learn about creatures’ abilities and social behaviours, including presentations on bats.

The wide range of events has been made possible by collaboration from Chester Cathedral, the Grosvenor Museum, Chester Roman Tours, Brio Leisure, and other institutions.

Chester Town Hall serves as the hub for the festival, though activities are planned across the town's various venues.

Katherine Wilson, associate professor of Later Medieval European History at the University of Chester, said: "Excitement is mounting for the first-ever Festival of Ideas as the final preparations get underway.

"With almost 100 events and activities to choose from, on everything from the body to bats, everyone can find something to enjoy.

"If you haven’t already made plans to come along, please do take a look at the website and join us during what is set to be a fascinating and fun-filled four days, as we celebrate knowledge, inspiration and creativity here and beyond.

"We can’t wait to welcome everyone and place the spotlight on our incredible and vibrant city."