Ensconced with the audience in an exceptionally good hotel, six of the most distinguished historians in Britain talk about the subjects on which they have written and about the nature and practice of history.

The weekend consists of ten half-hour talks, each followed by Q&A sessions, and four sessions during which a panel of speakers discuss issues which arise from the talks or which are proposed by the audience. Unlike conventional literary festivals, the speakers’ presence is continuous, with most attending throughout. There is therefore ample opportunity to continue discussions and conversations during the refreshment breaks and over dinner.

We have selected historians who are leaders in their fields and are stimulating and thought-provoking speakers. Between them they cover a very wide range of subjects, from the historiography of Hadrian’s Wall to researching the Siege of Stalingrad, from Wellington’s Army to the Papacy.

Proceedings begin at 4.15pm on Friday afternoon – with tea available from 3.00pm – and come to a close by 12.45pm on Sunday.

The number of residential participants is restricted to 64. A limited number of tickets are sold to non-residents for individual sessions.

Details of the programme