AN OUTSTANDING line-up of TV personalities, top historians, actors and leading politicians will be appearing at this year’s Gloucester History Festival, from September 2-17.

The festival has a packed programme, with a ‘Revolution and Innovation’ theme and many events are free.

Kicking off with Gloucester Day on September 2, the festival starts by celebrating the end of the Civil War siege of Gloucester with re-enactments, parades and family fun.

Then from September 2 to 17, a series of talks, concerts and workshops form ‘City Voices.’

Family Day, with art and craft, storytelling and trails is on September 9 and from September 7 to 10, many of Gloucester’s historical buildings will allow free access for Heritage Open Days.

Countryfile presenter Anita Rani, broadcaster Dan Show, former Chancellor of the Exchequer Ken Clarke and Blackadder’s Tony Robinson are among the famous faces participating in the popular Blackfriars Talks from September 9 to 17.

“Three events I’m particularly looking forward to are former BBC Moscow Correspondent Bridget Kendall talking about the Cold War, Anita Rani discussing the Partition of India and our special event going behind the scenes of Radio 4’s The Archers,” said Blackfriars Talks Curator, Sarah Smyth.

And it seems the public are equally excited about the festival, with around 25 percent of tickets selling out within the first three days of the box office opening. 

See the full range of events and purchase tickets from gloucesterhistoryfestival.co.uk, call the box office on 01452 396572, or pop into the Tourist Information Centre located at 28 Southgate Street, Gloucester.