Wednesday 16th September 2026

A Century of Agatha Christie on Screen: Unseen!

Dr Mark Aldridge


The always-popular Dr Mark Aldridge returns to the Festival this year with another fascinating talk for us. This time he is focusing on Agatha Christie on Screen, so be prepared for some exciting and very special insights!

Trace the story of Agatha Christie on screen not only through the famous adaptations, but productions that have been little-seen or forgotten about. Dr Mark Aldridge will take you on a journey through a century of Agatha Christie adaptations for film and television, drawing on clips and rare material.

Tickets for Mark's talks always sell very quickly, so book early to avoid disappointment.

Mark is Associate Professor of Screen Histories at Solent University, and an Agatha Christie historian and speaker. His books include Agatha Christie's Marple: Expert on Wickedness, Agatha Christie's Poirot: The Greatest Detective in the World, and Agatha Christie on Screen.

Gallery

Venue: Spanish Barn, Torre Abbey


Accessibility

There is a drop-off point and limited parking within the grounds for disabled visitors. Entry to the Spanish Barn is relatively level, but there are a few cobble stones to cross, before entering the completely flat interior. We have space for wheelchairs, although if you let us know in advance, we can ensure that there is ample dedicated space for the number of wheelchair users. We have again raised the height of the main stage this year, so that guest speakers can easily be seen and have a hearing loop in the front half of the Barn nearest the stage. We also have two TV screens midway down the barn screening what is happening on the stage. There is a disabled toilet available to the rear of the Spanish Barn.

If you have any particular access requirements or enquiries, do please get in touch and we will do whatever we feasibly can to accommodate you. Please email admin@iacf-uk.org

Getting there

Getting to the venue

The Spanish Barn is in the grounds of Torre Abbey. This is on Torquay seafront and walkable from most hotels in the area. It is also right next to Torquay Train Station.

Parking

There is no parking in the grounds of Torre Abbey except for disabled parking. The nearest car park is Torre Valley - Torbay Council. This is a five-minute walk from the Spanish Barn.

Toilets

Toilets are available to the rear of the Spanish Barn for the duration of the Literary Festival.

Inside the Spanish Barn

Whilst we only have one evening event in the Spanish Barn this year, it can get cold so please dress with this in mind.

Food and Drink

The cafe at Torre Abbey is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10am till 4pm and is dog friendly.

A short 10-minute walk away from the Spanish Barn are a variety of cafes, bars and takeaways.

Dogs

Dogs, except for assistance dogs, are not allowed in the Spanish Barn.

If you have any further questions, please email admin@iacf-uk.org

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