Big names on the 2025 Bloody Scotland festival programme include three well-known and popular broadcasters Steph McGovern, Jeremy Vine and The Rev Richard Coles; Kate Atkinson making her first ever visit to Bloody Scotland to discuss her crime novels which have been adapted into the BBC series Case Histories; actor Richard Armitage returning for a second year; doctor turned comedian, Adam Kay who is the author of the multimillion bestseller, This is Going to Hurt; L J Ross multi-million copy selling author of the DCI Ryan series; actor and musician, Joey Batey (Jaskier the Bard) from The Witcher on Netflix, Chris Chibnall, the creator and writer of Broadchurch; American bestselling crime writer, Laura Lipmann who will be on stage with Mark Billingham; Terry Deary, author of the much-loved Horrible Histories; American superstar Kathy Reichs; professional footballer turned bestselling crime writer, Jo Nesbo; Mick Herron, the multi-award winning author of the thrillers which inspired the hit TV show Slow Horses; multi award-winner Elly Griffiths and pharmacist turned crime writer, A A Dhand.
Fringe elements at the festival this year will include a Day of the Deid procession led by Ian Rankin and the winners of the two prizes, Sir Ian's Whisky Night with songs from James Yorkston & Colin Macintyre and whisky chat from Bloody Scotland Debut Prize shortlisted author, Natalie Jayne Clark.
Steph McGovern and Richard Coles are the team captains for Crime Family Fortunes – the crime themed Saturday night quiz, a True Crime Walking Tour and as ever everyone appearing at the festival is invited to pick up a mic and join the annual cabaret night, Karaoke at the Coo.
The Scottish lineup includes former McIlvanney Prize winners – Chris Brookmyre (with Marisa Haetzman as Ambrose Parry), Denise Mina, Callum McSorley and Alan Parks; former Bloody Scotland Debut Prize winners – Tariq Ashkanani and Allan Gaw; other much loved Scottish crime writers J D Kirk; Douglas Skelton, Daniel Aubrey, Graeme Macrae Burnet, Neil Lancaster, Alex Gray, Lin Anderson, Morgan Cry, Craig Robertson, Marion Todd, C J Cooke, Adam Oyebanji, Lesley McDowell, Russel McLean, Nina Bhadreshwar, Philip Miller and new authors, Chris Barkley, Foday Mannah, Richard Strachan, Claire Wilson, David Goodman, Natalie Jayne Clark, Pat Black, Zoe Venditozzi and Claire Mitchell KC and local celebrity author, Judy Murray.
The festival takes place in various venues (including the historic Albert Halls, Trinity Church, Central Library and the social hub of the festival, The Golden Lion Hotel).
A 10% discount is available to people residing in the Stirling Council area. This is available across all sales channels and you must give your address at the time of booking.
Free standby tickets are available on the day to the unemployed or those on low income.
Strongest ever line-ups
Festival Director, Bob McDevitt said: “It has been an absolute joy working with the legendary Sir Ian Rankin on this year’s programme and I think he has helped to deliver one of our strongest ever line-ups.
“There are so many treats in store for our audiences this year from established names writing at the very top of their game to brand new voices bringing a different perspective to the crime genre – roll on September!”
Big names of crime writing
Alan Bett, Head of Literature and Publishing at Creative Scotland said: “Bloody Scotland brings the big names of crime writing to Stirling each year, and 2025 offers an incredible list of authors, enhanced by Ian Rankin's role as guest programmer.
“Of huge importance is the platforming of emergent writers. Bloody Scotland provides new Scottish authors the opportunity to launch their careers and build readerships, and for Scotland's fans of crime fiction, the chance to find their next favourite book."
A key part of our vibrant cultural offering
Stirling Council leader, Councillor Gerry McGarvey said: “Bloody Scotland is Stirling’s annual celebration of mystery, murder and mischief – but with a literary alibi. It has grown into one of Stirling’s most loved festivals and is a key part of our vibrant cultural offering.
“We can’t wait to welcome book lovers from around the world again in September to join locals as we prepare to turn the page on the 14th edition of this success story.”
For more info and to buy tickets, visit: https://bloodyscotland.com