2024 programme

Click here to see the full programme and to purchase your tickets.

TALKS See Schedule

PERFORMANCE See Schedule

EXPERIENCES See Schedule

LIVING HISTORY See Schedule

live music See Schedule

Children's Activities See Schedule

A Week long
Celebration
of the Past

Immerse yourself in a lively festival brimming with stimulating talks, engaging panels, and enthralling performances. Delve into interactive historical experiences, from mastering traditional crafts and culinary arts to simulating a soldier's march. Enjoy a variety of sensory activities designed for an unforgettable family journey through history.

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LATEST
ANNOUNCEMENTS

21st Mar 2024

Latest Programme Announcements!

22nd Feb 2024

Chalke History Festival 2024 - Biggest And Best Yet!

15th Jan 2024

VIP Speakers Announced for 2024 Festival

14th Jan 2024

James Holland: A Letter from the Creative Director

17th May 2023

Guest Podcast: Alexander Manners chats to Tim Bouverie

17th May 2023

Guest Podcast: Alexander Manners chats to Annelise Gray

17th May 2023

Guest Podcast: Alexander Manners chats to Tom Holland

17th May 2023

Guest Podcast: Alexander Manners chats to James Holland

29th Jun 2022

Forging Meteorites - forging 4,500 year old meteorite into fine and decorative jewellery

9th Jun 2022

HRH The Duchess of Cornwall to visit the Daily Mail Chalke Valley History Festival to support opening event with The Reading Room

2024 chalke themes

SOCIETY

Examining the impact of religion, regimes and revolution on the evolution of society, both in Britain and globally, since the dawn of civilisation over six millennia ago.

POLITICS & ECONOMICS

What are the patterns from history? We explore the dynamic interplay of history, law, economics, and politics in shaping our daily lives and their evolution over time.

CONFLICT

Conflict, from tribal skirmishes to global wars, has profoundly impacted lives, nations, and empires throughout national and world history.

OUR LAND, OUR SEA

Our historical bond with nature, from global weather to wildlife and oceans, teaches vital lessons for navigating these rapidly changing times.

SCIENCE & INNOVATION

Science and innovation, from the wheel to AI, have crucially shaped human existence – for good and for bad.

EXPLORATION & ADVENTURE

Our unyielding quest, from early African migrations to Antarctic expeditions, reflects a pioneering spirit that continuously shapes and inspires our world.

CULTURE & ARTS

Art, from cave paintings to film, mirrors and evolves with our culture, encompassing music, literature, architecture, and more throughout history.

SPORTS

It's tribal, uniting and thrilling us through cricket, football, and more; sport inspires, motivates, and reflects human endurance and evolution.

SOCIETY

Examining the impact of religion, regimes and revolution on the evolution of society, both in Britain and globally, since the dawn of civilisation over six millennia ago.

POLITICS & ECONOMICS

What are the patterns from history? We explore the dynamic interplay of history, law, economics, and politics in shaping our daily lives and their evolution over time.

CONFLICT

Conflict, from tribal skirmishes to global wars, has profoundly impacted lives, nations, and empires throughout national and world history.

OUR LAND, OUR SEA

Our historical bond with nature, from global weather to wildlife and oceans, teaches vital lessons for navigating these rapidly changing times.

SCIENCE & INNOVATION

Science and innovation, from the wheel to AI, have crucially shaped human existence – for good and for bad.

EXPLORATION & ADVENTURE

Our unyielding quest, from early African migrations to Antarctic expeditions, reflects a pioneering spirit that continuously shapes and inspires our world.

CULTURE & ARTS

Art, from cave paintings to film, mirrors and evolves with our culture, encompassing music, literature, architecture, and more throughout history.

SPORTS

It's tribal, uniting and thrilling us through cricket, football, and more; sport inspires, motivates, and reflects human endurance and evolution.

Join us for a journey through time.
Be part of a festival that's not just about
learning history but living it!

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