Join us to explore why the Cheshire longbowmen were regarded as some of the finest archers in history. Discover what made the longbow such a powerful weapon, how their skill shaped events like the rebellion of Hotspur, and why this formidable force is no longer part of Chester's story. Uncover the rise, impact and legacy of these remarkable medieval warriors.
Leprosy and smallpox are two of the world’s oldest and most stigmatising illnesses. Both conditions bring shame from the fear of contagious disease and disfigured bodies and Chester’s history offers an authentic approach to their identification and treatment. From the founding of St Giles’s Leprosy Hospital in the early twelfth century, to the formation of the Smallpox Society of Chester in 1778, find out how the city's inhabitants managed the challenges of these devastating diseases.
This talk will discuss the background to the enormous expansion of munitions' factories and production in Britain, as a result of the 'Shells Scandal' of 1915, including within the local area around Chester.
Join Dr Lucy Andrew, former Senior Literature in English Literature at the University of Chester, as she introduces her debut novel, A Very Vexing Murder, a cosy crime retelling of Jane Austen's Emma, and discusses her path to becoming a published author.
How NOT to Flee a War is a first-hand talk by Ukrainian journalist Maria Romanenko, co-presented with her partner Jez Myers, telling the story of their attempt to escape Kyiv as Russia launched its full-scale invasion on 24 February 2022.
Ever wondered how athletes fuel their endurance engines? This session will explore how 'the plate' of an endurance athlete can influence their performance.
The Merlin's Isle epic ballad series is acclaimed poet Malcolm Guite's masterwork, a lifetime in the making. Malcolm Guite is the former Chaplain of Girton College, Cambridge. A performance poet and singer/songwriter, he lectures widely on poetry and theology in Britain and the US. His latest book blends myth, theology, and lyrical mastery. Guite re-enchants the legend of King Arthur for a new generation, restoring its original power and mystery in this sweeping four-volume series.
Discover the untold stories of Strabane, one of the forgotten frontlines of the Northern Ireland Troubles. This talk explores the lived experiences of those who grew up or took part in the conflict, showing how their memories, identities, and communities have shaped life in a post-conflict society.