SWINDON-WIDE HISTORY FESTIVAL

Rosa Mattheson and Graham Carter are passionate historians in their own right - and accredited authors of inspiring books. All connected to Swindon.

Swindon’s newest Festival has been unveiled to the public on SWINDON 105.5, introducing a major new celebration of history taking place throughout September across the entire Borough.

The Swindon‑Wide History Festival will spotlight the stories, events and heritage that have shaped every corner of Swindon — from Chiseldon to Stratton St Margaret, Wroughton to Highworth, and Swindon Central to South Marston, bringing together organisations, venues, historians and residents to explore the town’s past and its ongoing legacy.

Dr Rosa Matheson, academic historian, railway author and member of The History Team, describes the festival as: “A great, new initiative creating more awareness of the amazing history events that have taken place across the Borough — and promotes new opportunities to rediscover the wonders and relevance of history. This brand new Festival will offer opportunities for all ages to explore and discover through a myriad of events, captured through weekly programmes on SWINDON 105.5.”

Fellow historian and author Graham Carter adds: “History is both serious and fun. It’s full of surprise, covering everything including music and the Arts. We are making history every day — like the recent unveiling of the XTC tribute in Queens Park. This new Festival offers an opportunity for all ages to learn ABOUT history and learn FROM history.”

SWINDON 105. Station Manager Shirley Ludford says "We are delightd to support this initiative. There are so many stories to tell and this is an opportunity for people of all ages as well as to those new to living or working in the Swindon area, to learn about our history - and the myriad of events and initiative happening today!"

The Festival’s public launch takes place on Saturday 5th September at 12 noon with the Town Crier and Meet Your Local Authorsevent at Swindon Central Library, followed by a full programme of activities during September.