The Full English: A Journey in Search of a Country and its People

Join Stuart Maconie, one of Britain’s best-loved and best-selling travel writers, author of the 250k copy bestseller ‘Pies and Prejudice’ in conversation with writer and journalist David Quantick

The Full English: A Journey in search of a Country and its People juxtaposes the England of Priestley's 1930s with the present day. Maconie skillfully interlaces historical anecdotes, personal reflections, and humorous observations, offering readers a rich tapestry that reflects the evolution of English society.

Join Stuart Maconie on an enlightening, entertaining journey through England, from Bristol's Banksy to Durham's beaches, from Cotswolds corduroy to Stoke's oatcakes.

As his guide, Maconie walks in the footsteps of J.B. Priestley's classic travelogue, English Journey, to explore our national identity and how it has evolved over the last century. On his way, Stuart takes inspiration from the people he meets at bus stops and train stations, cafes and corner shops.

Travelling the length of the land, Maconie explores the differences between city and town, north and south, and examines our past and present with affection and insight. Whether he’s passing the boutique hotels of Manchester, the moors of Ilkley or the grand houses of Tynemouth, looking out over misty fens or urban skylines, he shines a light on the people who make these places and asks what the future holds for them. Along the way, he uncovers local heroes and secret histories over early breakfasts and last orders.

Through his journey, he lets us see our homes and habits, hopes and eccentricities with fresh eyes. The Full English challenges us to embrace the messy, shifting and diverse nature of England, and to ask ourselves what kind of country we want to be.

• Explores the rich regional diversity of England as Maconie travels through bustling cities, picturesque landscapes, and lesser-known corners of the country. ‘The Full English’ paints a vivid picture of the multifaceted nature of England, celebrating its differences and shared experiences.
• Investigates how the concept of Englishness has evolved and how individuals and communities grapple with their sense of identity in changing times. ‘The Full English’ is poised to become a contemporary classic. Maconie's skillful storytelling, combined with his deep respect for the source material, ensures that this book is not just a retreading of the past but a vibrant and relevant exploration of the present.

We have two ticket options available: * Event Only and *Event with Discounted Book Combo deal - books will be available for collection at the Festival.

Our event will be followed by a dedicated signing event with Stuart. RRP books will also be available for purchase on the day.

About the Author:

Stuart Maconie is a writer, broadcaster and journalist familiar to millions from his work in print, on radio and on TV. His previous bestsellers have included Cider with Roadies, Pies and Prejudice and Adventures on the High Teas. He hosts a show for BBC Radio 6 Music (with Mark Radcliffe) every weekend morning between 8 and 11am.Based in Birmingham and Manchester, he can also often be spotted on top of a mountain in the Lake District with a Thermos flask and individual pork pie. He is a champion ice skater and once shared a van with Napalm Death

About the Host:

David Quantick is a music journalist and a television, radio and movie writer. His film BOOK OF LOVE won an Imagen Award in 2022 and he received an Emmy for his work on VEEP. David has written for many other TV shows in the UK and USA, from THE THICK OF IT to AVENUE 5, and he is the author of several novels including ALL MY COLORS, THE MULE and RICKY’S HAND.

(David's headshot via Record Collector)

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

INNSIDE Manchester, 1 First Street, Manchester, United Kingdom