The Chalke History Festival returns from 23rd to 29th June 2025, promising an extraordinary week of history, debate, and immersive experiences in the picturesque Chalke Valley, Wiltshire. This year’s festival boasts an exceptional line-up of renowned speakers, engaging discussions, and historical re-enactments that are sure to make the past come alive.
A Festival Like No Other
Firmly established as a highlight of the British summer, Chalke History Festival blends inspiring literary talks, dynamic panel discussions, and hands-on living history experiences. The festival's vibrant atmosphere is complemented by an array of mouth-watering street food stalls and local vendors, offering everything from artisanal treats to hearty meals that showcase the best of Wiltshire's culinary scene. Visitors can also enjoy family-friendly activities designed to engage all ages, from interactive workshops to historical re-enactments. With camping and glamping options available under the midsummer sky, the festival provides a truly immersive experience where history, culture, and community come together in the heart of the Chalke Valley.
A New Chapter with Evelyn Partners
In an exciting development, the festival has announced a multi-year partnership with Evelyn Partners, a leading wealth management group. This collaboration ensures the festival's continued growth and commitment to cultural enrichment.
James Holland, Creative Director and Co-Founder of Chalke History Festival, shared his enthusiasm:
It's wonderful that such a major player as Evelyn Partners is supporting an important UK festival at this time. We are extremely proud to be embarking on a multi-year partnership, one that will do much to ensure the Chalke History Festival can grow and develop. Our 2025 programme is already shaping up to be our best ever, and while we all want everyone who comes to enjoy themselves, we also very strongly believe that history is vitally important. Understanding the past is the surest way to unlock our future.
Andrew Middleton, Group Chief Marketing and Commercial Officer at Evelyn Partners, added:
We are delighted to be the lead partner for Chalke History Festival. The festival provides the stories, lessons, and insights that help make sense of 'what’s next for the world'—a question that is at the heart of what we do for our clients. We’re looking forward to a fantastic event.
Spotlight on Featured Speakers
The 2025 festival line-up features a diverse range of prominent historians, authors, and public figures, offering unique insights into the past and its relevance today.
Anthony Scaramucci
Anthony Scaramucci, an American financier, entrepreneur, and political commentator, served briefly as White House Communications Director under President Donald Trump. He is the founder of SkyBridge Capital, a global investment firm, and hosts popular podcasts such as The Rest Is Politics US and Open Book. His latest book, The Little Book of Bitcoin, explores the evolving world of digital finance.
Ben Macintyre
Ben Macintyre, a British author and historian, is best known for his gripping works on espionage and military history, including SAS: Rogue Heroes and Agent Zigzag. At Chalke, he will delve into the 1980 Iranian Embassy Siege, offering a fresh perspective on this dramatic chapter of British history.
Alice Loxton
Historian and social media sensation Alice Loxton brings history to life through engaging content. Her latest book, A History of Britain in 18 Young Lives, explores the experiences of young people throughout British history, making the past relatable to new generations.
Roman Krznaric
Roman Krznaric, a leading social philosopher, examines how history can guide us in addressing modern challenges. His book The Good Ancestor reflects on how long-term thinking, inspired by historical insights, can help confront the urgent issues facing humanity today.
Tom Parker-Bowles
Renowned food writer Tom Parker-Bowles will explore the culinary traditions of the British royal family, from Queen Victoria to King Charles III. His stories of royal kitchens, chefs, and recipes offer a delicious glimpse into history through the lens of gastronomy.
Kate Summerscale
Bestselling true crime author Kate Summerscale will present her latest work, The Murders at 10 Rillington Place. Known for her meticulous research, Summerscale offers gripping narratives that uncover the dark underbelly of British history, as seen in her acclaimed The Suspicions of Mr Whicher.
Richard Evans
Sir Richard Evans, one of the world’s leading historians of modern Germany, will discuss Hitler’s inner circle. His analysis of how moral constraints eroded under the Third Reich provides profound insights into human behaviour in times of crisis.
Helen Castor
Medieval historian and broadcaster Helen Castor will recount the turbulent reigns of Richard II and Henry IV, exploring how their rivalry nearly led England to collapse. Her work sheds light on power struggles that shaped the nation’s destiny.
Max Hastings
Renowned journalist and historian Max Hastings will bring to life the D-Day landings on Sword Beach, recounting the bravery and strategy behind one of the most pivotal moments in World War II history.
You can keep an eye on programme changes and bookings on the Chalke History Festival website.
Live Performances & Living History
The festival isn’t just about talks. Living history experiences, interactive workshops, and reenactments will transport visitors back in time. A crowd favourite, The D-Day Darlings, finalists from Britain’s Got Talent, return with their stirring performances of popular WWII classics, sure to get everyone singing and dancing.
Plan Your Visit
The Chalke History Festival takes place at Church Bottom, Broad Chalke, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP5 5DP. Expect a week filled with engaging talks, family activities, and the vibrant atmosphere of a quintessentially British summer festival.
For more details, tickets, and programme updates, visit www.chalkefestival.com. Follow the latest festival news on X (@ChalkeFestival), Instagram (@chalkehistoryfestival), and Facebook.
Don’t miss out—save the date and prepare for an unforgettable journey through history. We’ll see you there!
