Bringing together leading historical voices to examine the events, individuals and ideas that shaped Britain, the first-ever Tewkesbury History Festival comes to the medieval Gloucestershire town this June 2026.
When is Tewkesbury History Festival 2026?
The inaugural Tewkesbury History Festival takes place across four days from Thursday 18 to Sunday 21 June 2026.
Who's on the lineup for Tewkesbury History Festival 2026?
Kicking off on Thursday 18 June 2026, historian Kate Vigurs reveals the extraordinary courage of female agents during the Second World War; novelist Alison Weir delves into the dangerous secrets of the Tudor dynasty; and archaeologist Julian Richards uncovers new insights into Stonehenge.
Later, Nicola Tallis explores royal intrigue in 'The Uncrowned Queen'; before novelist Sarah Dunant steps into the 'glittering and dangerous' world of the Italian Renaissance.
On Friday, architect and TV presenter Piers Taylor examines domestic design through the centuries through a Tewkesbury lens; while author Katie Hickman discusses the 'opulent' world of the 16th-century Ottoman empire.
Later sessions include R. A. J. Waddingham on Viking conquest and culture; Rory MacLellan examining the knights hospitallers; and celebrated author, Ian Mortimer, presenting a travel through time with 'An A–Z of English History'.
On Saturday, historian Matt Lewis tackles the mystery of the 'Princes in the Tower'; Melanie Backe-Hansen reveals the stories hidden within Britain’s homes; and Kassia St Clair explores textiles and society through the ages.
Welsh historian Nathen Amin examines rebellion and identity with a look at one of Wales' most revered figures; before Kate Lister closes the evening with an 'unapologetically honest' journey through the social history of the female body.
The festival concludes on Sunday, with children’s author Tom Phillips taking families through the wonders of forest folklore; followed by Elizabeth Norton, who charts 5,000 years of female monarchy.
Novelist Annie Garthwaite explores the women of the Wars of the Roses; while art historian Daisy Dixon investigates provocative imagery; before historian and broadcaster Suzannah Lipscomb brings the weekend to a dramatic close, with her talk on witchcraft and the witch trials.
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Aside from the talks taking place at The Watson Hall on Barton Street, there’s plenty more to see and do around town throughout the course of the festival – with a series of guided walks around its historic areas; living history and demonstrations at The Merchant's House and on the Abbey Lawn; and a chance to get hands-on with a natural dying workshop at the Methodist Church.
How to book tickets for Tewkesbury History Festival 2026?
For more information about the events programme and to book tickets, visit tewkesburyhistoryfestival.co.uk.
