04/06/2026
Norwich History Festival is back for its second year, celebrating the rich and vibrant history of Norwich and beyond. This year’s theme of “Why History Matters” seeks to explore the importance of history in modern society. With an exciting lineup of 34 talks, 30 walks, and a series of other events across the city from 14 to 24 July, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Tickets are available to book in advance on the Norwich History Festival website. https://norwichhistoryfestival.co.uk/
UEA has six events at the History Festival this year:
Hester Street film + Q&A
Tickets: £9.35 / Child: £7.35
Wednesday 15 July 2026, 6pm | Cinema City Picturehouse
Marking the landmark film’s 50th anniversary, join Dr Julia Wagner in conversation with Dr Sarah Godfrey to discuss its importance as a milestone in cinema.
Why the Bacon Papers matter
Tickets: £5.42
Friday 17 July 2026, 6.30pm | St Peter Mancroft, Norwich, NR2 1QQ
The Norfolk Record Society’s annual volume launch with Rev. Professor Diarmaid N.J. MacCulloch, Kt, DD, FBA. Chaired by Dr Joel Halcomb.
Antony Beevor in conversation
Tickets: £8.67
Saturday 18 July 2026, 3pm | Lecture Theatre 1, UEA
Was Grigori Rasputin a visionary, a fraud, or a victim of history? Antony Beevor, author of Stalingrad, searches for the truth about the great seducer of the Romanovs, the wild mystic who laid the ground for the Russian Revolution. Join the renowned historian and author as he discusses his career and latest book, Rasputin: And the Downfall of the Romanovs
Why History Matters Debate
Tickets: £5.42
Monday 20 July 2026, 1pm | The Octagon Chapel, Norwich, NR3 1BN
Three prominent figures will discuss why history is important to modern society. Chaired by Nicholas Grant (UEA) and including MP Clive Lewis.
Why the Gloucester shipwreck matters
Tickets: £5.42
Monday 20 July 2026, 3pm | The Forum Auditorium, Norwich, NR2 1TF
The Gloucester Project is a significant historical research project exploring the life and times of the Gloucester frigate. Professor Claire Jowitt from UEA will present an update on the Gloucester Project and what it has taught us.
Willie, Willie, Harry, Stee with Charlie Higson
Tickets: £10.84 / Under 18s: £5.42
Thursday 23 July 2026, 7.30pm | Lecture Theatre 1, UEA
Since 2023 Charlie Higson has hosted a weekly history podcast about the British monarchy called Willie, Willie, Harry, Stee, and a companion book of the series was published last October. This event will find out how he has got enthused with history and will also explore Charlie's own history with the city of Norwich.