A literary festival totally devoted to history that celebrates the fine historians and compelling historical novelists we currently have writing in this country. It attracted some 13,000 visitors in 2012. Festival patrons include Antony Beevor (below left) and Max Hastings.
Three major strands cover first Living History where the Festival will become a giant encampment of living history through the ages, from Romans to the Second World War, and displayed by some of the very best re-enactors and historical interpreters in the UK. With an air show featuring Spitfires and other warbirds, with Sword School, Have-a-Go Archery, an interactive First World War trench experience, and a battle re-enactment of the Battle of Vitoria, there will be much to see for all the family.
The second strand is the Literary Festival which plays host to many of our most popular, passionate and leading historians. Covering a wide variety of subjects from Ancient Rome to the Iron Curtain and with debates, discussions, lectures, seminars and events for all the family, this is Britain's premier History Literary Festival.
The third strand is the Schools Programme which is two days of history featuring a wide range of curriculum-based subjects delivered by leading and best-selling historians, including Tom Holland, Michael Burleigh and Laurence Rees. From 1066, through the Tudors and the First World War, and the rise of the Nazis to the Second World War, the programme will offer a series of lectures, seminars, living history and inter-active demonstrations to bring history alive, excite and inspire Year 10 and 12 students.
When? June 22- 28, 2015
Where? Manor Farm, Essbourne Wake, Wilts, SP5 5BA
Who? 2015
How much? Tickets range from £4 to £10 per event. Click on http://www.cvhf.org.uk/order.php for ticket prices.
Festival Website: www.cvhf.org.uk
Social Media? Twitter
Telephone for Enquiries? 01722 781206
2014 Programme
In 2013
Talks and debates on everything from Ancient Rome to The English at Home, from Shackleton to the Borgia Popes. And for children there will be the chance to learn about a prehistoric childhood with wolves and the really ‘Horrible’ bits of history.
Inexpensive food provided by one of Wiltshire’s best caterers, Martin Simcock’s Bread and Flowers. Or you can bring your own picnic if you’d prefer! All proceeds will go to Help for Heroes and a new pavilion for the Chalke Valley Cricket Club.
The 2011 Chalke Valley History Festival programme included talks with: Peter Snow, Michael Wood, John Julius Norwich, Col Tim Collins, Patrick Bishop, Michelle Paver, Professor Gary Sheffield and Juliet Gardiner.
If you are involved in this festival you can update or change details via the organisers page . Authors can list here.
