Gloucester History Festival
Saturday 5 - Sunday 20 September 2026
Gloucester History Festival returns from 5–20 September 2026, bringing two weeks of fascinating talks, tours, performances and family-friendly events to venues across Gloucester. With medieval Blackfriars Priory at its heart, the festival celebrates thousands of years of history through an exciting programme featuring some of Britain's best-known historians, authors and broadcasters.
Visitors can hear from leading speakers including Tony Robinson, Dan Jones, David Olusoga, Lucy Worsley, Natalie Haynes, Katja Hoyer, Nick Crane, Janina Ramirez, Nandini Das and many more as they explore subjects spanning Roman Britain, medieval England, world history and extraordinary historical discoveries.
With around 150 events taking place across 30 venues throughout Gloucester, there is something for every age and interest. Families can enjoy more than 30 free activities in the Blackfriars Scriptorium, Britain's oldest surviving medieval library, while history enthusiasts can experience guided tours, parades, performances and hands-on activities across the city.
Those unable to attend in person can also enjoy selected Blackfriars Talks via livestream or watch on demand, making it easy to experience the festival from home.
Whether discovering Gloucester's rich heritage or hearing world-class historians share the latest research, Gloucester History Festival offers one of Britain's biggest and most exciting celebrations of history.
Book tickets and view the full programme: Gloucester History Festival
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