Wells Festival of Literature opens on Friday, 16 October, with a programme that takes audiences from international espionage to the kitchen table — and finishes in outer space.

Cedars Hall will host nine days of talks, readings and discussions, with subjects ranging from politics and history to art, health and cookery.

Friday's speakers include novelist Patrick Gale and journalist Stephen Sackur. The former HARDtalk presenter will discuss investigative journalism and the reporters who have challenged powerful interests.

The first weekend offers plenty for readers to get their teeth into. On Saturday, Louisa Young will introduce her continuation of the Cazalet family novels, taking forward the story begun by Elizabeth Jane Howard.

Sunday brings art historian Martin Gayford on the paintings of Tracey Emin, followed later by Rory Cormac's tales of fakers and forgeries. The weekend closes with a literary quiz, giving book lovers the chance to put their own knowledge to the test.

There is also a free afternoon of poetry readings and competition prize-giving on Monday, 19 October. The week's programme then moves through subjects including wartime exploits, travel, art and food.

Arthur Snell will discuss climate change on Tuesday, while Florence Hazrat explores the history of punctuation on Wednesday. Talks on Thursday and Friday cover mental health, allergies, history and money laundering.

The final Saturday begins with MasterChef winner Ping Coombes and a session devoted to rice dishes. Later, space scientist Maggie Aderin closes the festival with the story of how watching The Clangers as a child helped inspire her career.

Download our Nub News App!

- It’s FREE and available now
- Breaking news notifications
- Your Town in Your Pocket

Two events have already sold out: travel writer Nicholas Crane's appearance and the talk by Lady Hale, the former president of the Supreme Court. Organisers say returned tickets may be available on the door, although these cannot be guaranteed.

Refreshments will be available inside Cedars Hall, with the Hidden Pizza van also serving food in the grounds. Visitors should check the board for daily opening times.

The full programme and booking details are available on the Wells Festival of Literature website. Online bookings close at 4pm on both Fridays, 16 and 23 October, after which tickets will be available on the door at Cedars Hall, subject to availability.

• Wells Festival of Literature is a sponsor of Wells Nub News.