JC Niala to Discuss Urban Nature at Ilkley Festival

Anthropologist to explore nature’s presence in cities

Anthropologist, nature writer, and historian JC Niala will be presenting a talk titled The New Eden at this year’s Ilkley Literature Festival. The event is scheduled for 17 October 2026 from 1:15pm to 2:15pm at All Saints’ Church in Ilkley.

Exploring nature within urban environments

In her talk, JC Niala will examine how nature continues to thrive within urban spaces, challenging the common perception that cities are solely human domains. She will discuss the adaptability of wildlife such as birds and mammals, illustrating how these species find ways to survive and flourish in unexpected city locations.

Drawing on examples from cities around the world, including London, Nairobi, San Francisco, and New Delhi, Niala will combine elements of memoir, social history, and cultural commentary. Her presentation aims to offer insights into how urban residents might better recognise and celebrate the natural world within their environments.

Event details

• Date and time: 17 October 2026, 13:15 – 14:15
• Location: All Saints’ Church, 4 Church Street, Ilkley, LS29 9DS
• Ticket prices: £9 to £12

Tickets are available for purchase in advance. Attendees are encouraged to book early to secure a place.

About the venue

All Saints’ Church is located in the centre of Ilkley and serves as one of the festival’s key venues. It provides a setting for a variety of talks and cultural events during the Ilkley Literature Festival.

Additional festival events

The Ilkley Literature Festival features a range of talks and performances throughout the autumn. Other scheduled events include:

• Psychic Sally – 10 September 2026 at St George’s Hall
• Go West – We Close Our Eyes and Other Stories – 30 September 2026 at King’s Hall and Winter Gardens
• The Makings of a Murderer 3 – 10 November 2026 at St George’s Hall
• Russell Watson – An Intimate Evening with ‘The Voice’ – 23 October 2026 at King’s Hall and Winter Gardens

For more information about the festival and to book tickets, visit the official event page.