Harvington History Festival 2026
Harvington Hall, nr Kidderminster, Worcestershire
Wednesday 22 to Sunday 26 July 2026
Full line-up announced • Tickets on sale now
After a sell-out 2025, the Harvington History Festival returns to Worcestershire’s historic moated manor from 22–26 July 2026, bringing five days of talks, debates and discoveries to one of Britain’s most atmospheric heritage sites.
Exploring themes from Tudor court politics to everyday life, the festival will feature leading historians, broadcasters and authors uncovering the stories behind some of Britain’s most fascinating periods.
Highlights include historian and broadcaster Dr Miranda Kaufmann discussing the lives of Africans in Tudor England; Dr Nicola Tallis examining the dramatic life of Kate Carey, cousin of Elizabeth I; and National Portrait Gallery curator Dr Charlotte Bolland revealing the visual world of the Tudor court through portraits of Elizabeth I and her circle.
Royal history also takes centre stage, with Professor Steven Gunn exploring the political world of Henry VIII’s reign, while Dr Eleanor Barraclough investigates the lives of women in the Anglo-Saxon period.
Beyond royal courts and political intrigue, the programme broadens its scope with Ruth Goodman on everyday life in Victorian Britain, journalist Susan Rumfitt on the hidden stories behind jewellery, and Matt Lewis discussing medieval power and politics. Additional speakers include authors Amy Jeffs, Annie Gray and Janina Ramirez.
Alongside the talks, visitors can enjoy expert-led valuations and antiques advice from TV favourites Will Farmer and Charles Hanson.
Festival director Phil Downing said the event aims to reveal how history continues to shape the modern world, offering fresh perspectives on Britain’s past in the unique setting of Harvington Hall.
Harvington History Festival (Wednesday 22 to Sunday 26 July 2026) is sponsored by Fieldings Auctioneers and Handelsbanken. For more information, and tickets, which start from £12, see the Harvington Hall website.