Gloucester’s medieval treasure, Blackfriars Priory, is reopening its doors for a brief but exciting nine-day run this September, offering 52 unique events as part of the Gloucester History Festival.
Founded in 1239 on the grounds of a former Norman castle, Blackfriars Priory on Ladybellegate Street remains one of England’s most intact Dominican black friaries. Owned by English Heritage since 1960, the site was leased to Gloucester City Council from 2012 and regularly hosted weddings, concerts, exhibitions, guided tours, and private events for over a decade.
However, the venue closed to the public last month when Gloucester City Council ceased managing its daily operations, leaving it inaccessible since June 1. Now, history enthusiasts can look forward to an exceptional opportunity to experience the priory once more.
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From Friday, September 11 to Sunday, September 20, the Gloucester History Festival will bring the historic venue alive with a vibrant lineup of talks and performances. Leading the star-studded programme is Tony Robinson, famed for his role as Baldrick in the BBC’s Blackadder series and as presenter on Time Team. He will share his passion for Anglo-Saxon England and delve into medieval Wessex within the evocative backdrop of Blackfriars Priory.
The festival also boasts appearances by notable figures such as Caroline Quentin of Men Behaving Badly, historian David Olusoga, former Leader of the Commons Penny Mordaunt, BBC Coast’s Nicholas Crane, and acclaimed historians Michael Wood, Dan Jones, Ben Robinson, and Nandini Das.
Among the highlights are sessions centered on the Bayeux Tapestry, including a special debate featuring those responsible for bringing this iconic relic to the UK earlier this month. Music fans will also enjoy a rare collaboration between Philip Selway of Radiohead and Portishead’s Adrian Utley, exploring the ’90s music revolution before performing a live set praised as “guaranteed to shake the rafters.”
Andrew Pitt, chair of Gloucester History Trust, expressed his enthusiasm: “We love the unique atmosphere of this medieval landmark, and we’re thrilled that, with English Heritage’s support, we can inspire and entertain history lovers at Blackfriars this September.”
Festival president Professor Janina Ramirez added, “I’m excited to guide audiences on extraordinary journeys through history while addressing modern-day challenges.”
Tickets for all events at Blackfriars Priory will be available from 10am this Friday, July 24. Day passes start at £50 and can be purchased online via the Gloucester History Festival website or in person at the Festival Box Office located in the Museum of Gloucester on Brunswick Road.