Returning to the British Library this April

The HA is excited to support HistFest, a spectacular event taking place this April. HistFest 2026 brings together historians, authors, and broadcasters for a weekend of talks exploring global history – from ancient civilizations and forgotten voices to motherhood, LGBTQ+ history, and literary culture. The programme spans two full days at the British Library, offering themed sessions led by acclaimed speakers.

Saturday 18 April – Ancient Worlds and Everyday Lives

The first day focuses on ancient history and the lived experiences of past societies:

• Pharaohs & Empresses: A fresh look at the stories of Cleopatra and Isabel Moctezuma (Sofia Robleda, Saara El-Arifi). 
• Themistocles: The rise and fall of Athens’ naval mastermind (Prof. Michael Scott).
• The Lost Voices of Pompeii: Reconstructing Pompeii’s final day through seven lives (Raksha Dave, Dr Jess Venner). 
• Living History with Ruth Goodman: Insights into everyday historical life (Ruth Goodman, Dr Wanda Wyporska). 

Sunday 19 April – Social Histories and Cultural Legacy

The second day explores social change, identity, and cultural memory:

• Birth, Motherhood & Custody: An untold history of women’s experiences (Lucy Inglis, Prof. Lara Feigel, Prof. Pragya Agarwal).
• The Log Books – Voices of Queer Britain: Stories from a groundbreaking LGBTQ+ helpline (Tash Walker, Adam Zmith, Dan Vo). 
• The Brontë Sisters: New perspectives on the literary family (Dr Tara Puri, Essie Fox, Greg Jenner).
• Sir Michael Palin: Travels Through Time: A conversation exploring history through Palin’s journeys (Michael Palin, Rebecca Rideal).

The HA will also be exhibiting at the event, so come and meet members of our team! 

Find out more: https://histfest.org/histfest-2026/

Image credits: Michael Palin © John Swannell, Tash Walker and Adam Zmith © Jade Smith, Saara El-Arifi © Mustafa Raee