A major celebration of local heritage is coming to town as the Wigan History Festival takes place at Wigan Parish Church on Friday 10th and Saturday 11th April.
This two-day event brings together exhibitions and talks covering Wigan’s history from Roman times right through to the present day, and is set to be the largest event of its kind ever held in the town.
Visitors can explore displays from a wide range of local groups including the Wigan Family History Society, Wigan Archaeological Society, Wigan Museum, Wigan Borough Archives and more. There will also be a children’s quiz running throughout, making it a good option for families during the Easter holidays.
Opening times are 9.30am to 4.00pm on both days, and entry is free with no tickets required. The festival will be officially opened by the Mayor on Friday at 10.00am.
What’s on – Friday 10th April
- 11:00am – George Heaton, the Man Who Built Wigan
Marianne Howell looks at the life and work of Wigan’s most prolific architect, including a virtual tour of his buildings across the town. - 1:00pm – The Wigan History Quiz
Jim Meehan hosts a light-hearted interactive quiz testing local knowledge, with Uncle Joe’s Mint Balls up for grabs. - 2:30pm – Aspull Ring Ditch Project Update
Patrick Maloney from the Wigan Archaeological Society shares the latest findings from excavations at a prehistoric burial site.
What’s on – Saturday 11th April
- 10:15am – The History of Wigan Cinemas
John Gostelow takes a look back at the town’s much-loved cinemas. - 11:30am – Giles Gilbert Scott
Sean Jinks explores the work of the architect behind Wigan’s war memorial, Liverpool Cathedral and the red telephone box. - 1:00pm – The History of Haigh Hall
Jim Meehan tells the story of Haigh Hall and its development over 800 years. - 2:30pm – Wigan Jacobites 1668 to 1768
Cameron Fleming looks at Wigan’s role in the Jacobite uprisings and wider historical events of the time.
The festival offers something for anyone with an interest in local history, whether you want to dip into a talk or spend time exploring the exhibitions, and I think it looks fab!
Everyone is welcome to attend.
📍 Location: Wigan Parish Church
🗓️ Dates: Friday 10th & Saturday 11th April
🕘 Times: 9:30am – 4:00pm (both days)
🎟️ Entry: Free (no tickets required)
🎉 Official Opening: Friday at 10:00am by the Mayor
