Frank Skinner, renowned comedian, writer, and TV presenter, is set to bring his enthusiasm for British history to the Gloucester History Festival 2025. Taking place at the historic Blackfriars Priory this September, Skinner will join an impressive roster of 100 distinguished personalities, including historians, broadcasters, actors, and politicians.
Known for his work on Baddiel & Skinner and Room 101, Skinner will engage audiences by sharing his deep fascination with Britain’s rich and varied past. Alongside him, acclaimed film and theatre actress Celia Imrie will discuss her prolific career and her upcoming novel, Meet Me at Rainbow Corner, which explores life in wartime London.
The festival’s lineup also features notable figures such as Professor Alice Roberts, presenter of Digging For Britain, former Deputy Prime Minister Michael Heseltine, and Greg Jenner, creator of Horrible Histories. David Olusoga, host of A House Through Time, will shed light on lesser-known stories from Britain’s history. Other highlights include BBC’s Chief International Correspondent Lyse Doucet reflecting on Afghanistan and TV historian Tessa Dunlop interviewing Bletchley Park code-breaker Ruth Bourne.
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With a total of 53 exciting events scheduled from Saturday, September 13 to Sunday, September 21, festival-goers can look forward to talks covering a wide range of topics, from the Bayeux Tapestry and Magna Carta to the English Civil War, famous magicians, and the legacies of influential figures like Malcolm X, Margaret Thatcher, and Harold Wilson.
Festival President Professor Janina Ramirez expressed her enthusiasm, saying, “Celebrating our 15th History Festival, I’m thrilled to present our most dynamic programme yet. The festival never ceases to inspire, and I hope everyone enjoys this remarkable year as much as I do.”
Tickets for the popular Blackfriars Talks and other events will be available from 10 am on Friday, July 25. Interested attendees can purchase tickets online at gloucesterhistoryfestival.co.uk, by phone at 07834 406228, or in person at the festival box office located at the Museum of Gloucester, Brunswick Road, Gloucester GL1 1HP.