Heart of Stone Crimewriting Festival

Schedule

Fri, 29 May, 2026 at 05:00 pm to Sat, 30 May, 2026 at 10:00 pm

UTC+01:00

Location

Number 44 Hotel & Bar | Aberdeen, SC

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Heart of Stone Crimewriting Festival
A killer line-up of crime authors and forensics experts come to Stonehaven for live interviews, immersive events and unmissable moments.
Crime. Conversation. Atmosphere.
Set against the stunning coastal backdrop of Stonehaven, the Heart of Stone Crimewriting Festival is a brand-new event bringing together some of the most exciting voices in crime fiction alongside real-world experts.
Across two days, you’ll experience a carefully curated programme of live interviews, panel discussions and immersive events — from the craft of writing and the pull of the past to the realities of forensic investigation and the enduring appeal of the detective.
Expect lively, thought-provoking conversations with bestselling authors and rising stars, alongside expert insight from those operating at the sharp end of real-life crime.
This is more than a series of talks. It’s a festival designed to be experienced.
On Friday evening, begin with The First Clue, a lively double bill on handwriting and the history of crime writing, before stepping into an interactive world of intrigue with Cocktails, Mocktails & Mystery.
Then take your seat for Friday’s headline experience, Trial by Jury, where you hear the evidence, examine the case and decide the verdict.
On Saturday, start with Murder in the Morning, then explore the detail behind investigations in our Masterclass: How to Solve a Crime.
Dive into the genre’s past and present in The Unusual Suspects, encountering much-loved detectives along the way, before Noir by Night brings a darker, richer close to the day.
Throughout the festival, there will be opportunities to meet authors, have books signed, and be part of something new from the very beginning.
Whether you come for a single session or stay for the full experience, Heart of Stone Crimewriting Festival promises a weekend of crime, curiosity and unforgettable moments.
What to expect:
• Live interviews with bestselling crime authors and rising stars
• A forensic masterclass with real-world experts
• An interactive crime-solving cocktail experience
• The immersive headline event: Trial by Jury
• Book signings and opportunities to meet the authors
• A full day of themed double bills, from morning to night
Book your place now — choose a single session or secure a Friday Pass, Saturday Pass or Festival Pass for the full experience.
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Where is it happening?

Number 44 Hotel & Bar, Aberdeen, United Kingdom

Event Location & Nearby Stays:

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