Thursday 17th September 2026

Robert Thorogood and Ben Miller: A Caribbean Mystery

Our Roger Ackroyd Day concludes with this fabulous and very exciting event. The Agatha Christie Festival is delighted to welcome actor and author Ben Miller and welcome back bestselling author and creator of Death in Paradise, Robert Thorogood.

Since DI Richard Poole solved his first case on the beautiful Caribbean island of Saint Marie, Death in Paradise has captivated audiences worldwide. The mixture of seemingly impossible murders to solve, the sunshine of tropical shores and the quirky characters has proved an irresistible delight for viewers.

For this very special event, show creator Robert Thorogood and DI Richard Poole actor Ben Miller will discuss not only Death in Paradise, but the influences Christie has had on both those 'unsolvable' Caribbean crimes as well as their own writing.

An event truly not to be missed!

Robert Thorogood created Death in Paradise for the BBC, which is now in its 15th series, and a large part of the show's success is because of Ben Miller's portrayal of the original Detective, Richard Poole. Robert has also co-created two spin-off shows for BBC1, those being the Devon-based Beyond Paradise (which is on its fourth series) and Australia-set Return to Paradise (which is on its second). Since then, he has written five Marlow Murder Club novels, the last two of which, including the latest The Mysterious Affair of Judith Potts, were Sunday Times Bestsellers. He's also turned the books into a TV show starring Samantha Bond, Jo Martin and Cara Horgan for U&Drama. The fourth series is filming in the summer of 2026.

Ben Miller is a bestselling author, actor and director. He has written several blockbuster books for children, including The Day I Fell Into a Fairytale and Once Upon a Legend. A Very Dangerous Pursuit, his first adult novel, will be published on 21st May this year and delves into the world of Richard Hannay. Intrepid, inquisitive, and on the hunt for intrigue, Hannay's escapades lead him onto the Orient Express and the Titanic. In over his head, often a step - or thirty-nine - behind, Hannay is absolutely, resolutely determined to save the day.

In addition to playing the beloved DI Richard Poole in Death in Paradise, Ben's acting credits include The Armstrong & Miller Show, the Johnny English and Paddington films, and Bridgerton.

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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