Despite this week’s government announcement to delay the easing of lockdown restrictions, we are delighted to say the Daily Mail Chalke Valley History Festival is still going ahead, writes festival director Jane Pleydell-Bouverie.

From the outset, we had always planned for this eventuality and, although we had hoped for all restrictions to be lifted, we are anticipating a fabulous 2021 festival.

The sun is shining, most of the tents have already gone up, and the Church Bottom site here in Broad Chalke looks absolutely stunning.

We’ve a terrific line-up in what is an incredibly full festival this year, with a new and exciting outdoor programme encompassing a mass of events, panel discussions, live podcasts, living history, live music, vintage fairground and, of course, food drink and camping in our stunning setting.

Covid safety measures

Everything will comply with May 17 Step 3 regulations including:

  • a cap on the overall number of spectators allowed on site
  • the wearing of masks indoors
  • socially distanced queuing
  • daily testing of all staff, volunteers, contractors, press and speakers.
  • Table service at the bar
  • the seating in the dining and talk tents will be spread out according to the necessary health and safety measures.

Ticket availability 

Saturday is now sold out but there is still availability for a fantastic array of events, mostly outdoors, on all other days.

On Thursday, there are still a few tickets left to former Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams’ talk, and on Sunday you can still book to hear from sprightly centenarian Christian Lamb who worked on the secret D-Day invasion maps with Winston Churchill.

We have a busy time ahead of us over the next few days, getting everything ready, but we are all hugely looking forward to seeing everyone again next week.

When is the festival?

The festival runs from Wednesday June 23 to Sunday June 27.

How to get tickets

Tickets: cvhf.org.uk or 01722 781133.

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