The ninth edition of the Bristol Radical History Festival is scheduled for April 24 and April 25, 2027, organizers announced on Tuesday. The two-day event will once again be split between M Shed and other venues across the city, offering a mix of films, panel discussions, and exhibitions focused on the region’s past.
Themes and programming
The Bristol Radical History Group (BRHG) organizes the festival, welcoming attendees ranging from academics to general history enthusiasts. Previous years have explored diverse topics, including the history of propaganda, utopias, and the 1926 General Strike. Earlier editions also spotlighted Bristol’s green history and the city’s former madhouses.
While the specific theme for the 2027 edition has not yet been revealed, the group aims to continue uncovering untold stories about the city. The 2025 program highlighted four central themes, showcasing the history of propaganda, utopias, the Welsh Risings and the 1926 General Strike.
Community and funding
Organizers emphasize that the festival is an independently financed project. The Bristol Radical History Group relies on volunteer labor to cover costs and sustain operations year to year. The event serves as a platform for anyone interested in local history, providing a space for dialogue and discovery.
In addition to the history festival, Bristol24/7 has partnered with various local businesses to offer exclusive perks for members. The partnership with Small Goods allows members to try one of their amazing doughnuts for free as a reward for buying a coffee.
Food lovers can grab a free portion of small fish & chips from Salt & Malt. The team at Salt & Malt are offering Bristol24/7 members the chance to enjoy their renowned fish & chips for free. Gamers can enjoy free gaming at Chance & Counters for themselves and a friend. This offer allows members to play games at Chance & Counters without any payment.
Beer lovers can head to the Arnolfini bar, where Wiper and True are happy to be offering Bristol24/7 members free pints every month. Basement Beer invites members to visit their tiny taproom for a free pint, and Bookhaus offers 50% off a book to members. Ahh Toots provides a free cookie with the purchase of a coffee, and the Grain Barge offers a free pint of cask ale.