Bringing some of history's most famous names to town, Gloucester History Festival is back this September 2024 for two fascinating weeks of talks, exhibitions and tours, with 150 events to choose from.
Kicking off on Gloucester Day, commemorating the lifting of the Siege of Gloucester in 1643, on Saturday 7 September 2024, there's a packed programme to inspire history fans of all ages, headed up by Dr Janina Ramirez and David Olusoga.
The 13th-century setting of Blackfriars Priory — with its ancient archways, beamed oak ceiling made from wood gifted by Henry III and Britain’s oldest surviving library — provides the perfect backdrop for lively debates.
Highlights include Countdown queen Susie Dent sharing the curious history of words; TV chef Tom Kerridge celebrating the best of Great British Food; comedian Stewart Lee taking a humorous swipe at history; Mark Gatiss turning history into drama, from Doctor Who to Sherlock Holmes; and explorer Ranulph Fiennes charting a journey across the globe from pole to pole.
Space scientist Maggie Aderin-Pocock explores the history of space travel; BBC Radio 4 Stand Up For The Classics host, comedian and historian Natalie Haynes brings Greek goddesses to life; historian William Dalrymple traces the transformative impact Ancient India has had on the modern world; while Horrible Histories expert, author and host of BBC podcast You're Dead To Me, Greg Jenner takes audiences back to Roman Britain.
Military history enthusiasts have plenty to enjoy, too, with former war reporter and Daily Telegraph editor Max Hastings taking audiences behind enemy lines to explore World War II's Operation Biting; and BBC broadcaster Jonathan Dimbleby exploring how Stalin won the war.
The event also incorporates the ever-popular Heritage Open Days from Friday 13 to Sunday 15 September 2024, where members of the public can explore some of Gloucester's most historic buildings for free.
Times and ticket prices vary for in-person events — and new for 2024, Blackfriars Talks are being livestreamed, with online-only tickets costing just £6 each.
For more information, or to book tickets, visit gloucesterhistoryfestival.co.uk, or pop into the Museum of Gloucester.
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