Blackfriars Priory, one of England’s most complete surviving medieval Dominican friaries, is set to reopen in Gloucester for a limited nine-day period this September. The historic venue, nestled on Ladybellegate Street and founded in 1239 on the grounds of a former Norman castle, will come alive once again as the centerpiece of Gloucester History Week.
Owned by English Heritage since 1960 and previously managed by Gloucester City Council, Blackfriars has hosted weddings, concerts, exhibitions, and guided tours over the past 14 years. However, the venue has been closed to the public since June 1 following the council’s withdrawal from its day-to-day management.
Gloucester History Festival will breathe new life into the majestic priory from September 11 to 20 with a packed schedule of 52 events. With an expert lineup of speakers, the festival promises an inspiring experience for history enthusiasts.
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Among the highlights is Tony Robinson, famed for his role as Baldrick in the TV series Blackadder and known as a presenter on Time Team. Robinson will share insights into Anglo-Saxon England and medieval Wessex in a special talk. Other renowned historians and personalities joining the festival include Caroline Quentin, David Olusoga, Penny Mordaunt, Nicholas Crane, Michael Wood, Dan Jones, Ben Robinson, and Nandini Das.
One particularly anticipated topic centers on the Bayeux Tapestry with three dedicated sessions, including a rare debate featuring those who orchestrated the tapestry’s secretive recent journey to the UK.
Music enthusiasts will also be enticed by a unique collaboration featuring Philip Selway of Radiohead and Adrian Utley of Portishead. The duo will delve into the transformative ’90s music scene and perform a live set described by organizers as “guaranteed to shake the rafters.”
Andrew Pitt, chair of Gloucester History Trust, expressed enthusiasm for the event, stating, “We love the unique atmosphere of this medieval landmark. Thanks to English Heritage’s cooperation, we’re thrilled to entertain, inform, and inspire history lovers this September.”
Festival president Professor Janina Ramirez added, “I look forward to taking audiences on extraordinary journeys through the distant past and engaging with today’s challenges.”
Tickets for all events at Blackfriars Priory will go on general sale at 10 am on Friday, July 24. Daily passes start at £50 and are available online via the Gloucester History Festival website or in person at the Festival Box Office located in the Museum of Gloucester on Brunswick Road.