4 months ago
This September, Lambeth will be buzzing with the sounds of history as the 2024 Lambeth Heritage Festival takes over the borough.
Organised by Lambeth Archives and the Lambeth Local History Forum, this month-long festival promises to be a treasure trove of events for anyone with a soft spot for the area’s rich past. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good story about the place they call home?
The festivities begin with the Lambeth Local History Fair on Saturday, 7th September, at St Leonard’s Church in Streatham. This isn’t just any old fair, mind you—it’s a celebration of everything that makes Lambeth tick. Expect to see stalls filled with local history books, and don’t miss out on the guided walks and talks sprinkled throughout the day. Whether you’re a seasoned local historian or just curious about what’s beneath your feet, there’s something here for you.
One of the festival’s highlights has to be the plethora of guided walks on offer. These aren’t your average strolls around the block. We’re talking about tours that delve deep into Lambeth’s nooks and crannies, revealing secrets that even the most knowledgeable locals might not know. Fancy a wander through Brixton, seeing it through the eyes of the Windrush generation? Or perhaps a walk exploring Streatham’s Art Deco heritage is more your thing? There’s even a trek around the ancient parish boundary of Lambeth for those who fancy a 16-mile jaunt—consider it your exercise for the week sorted.
If walking’s not your style, don’t worry—the festival has you covered with a range of talks that promise to be as enlightening as they are engaging. Picture this: a deep dive into the lives of Lambeth’s Black stage artists, or a chat about the women who made Doulton’s Lambeth Art Pottery famous. These are the kinds of stories that bring history to life, offering a glimpse into the people who’ve shaped the borough over the years.
A special mention has to go to the return of three Shakespeare folios to Lambeth Archives after a 75-year loan to the British Library. The “Shakespeare in Lambeth” exhibition will be held at the newly reopened Lambeth Archives on Brixton Hill. It’s not every day you get to see such rare literary treasures, and the accompanying talks and events are sure to be a hit with anyone who’s ever uttered “to be or not to be.”
Don’t think for a second that this festival is just for the grown-ups. The Harvest Festival at Brixton Windmill on 29th September is perfect for families, offering everything from live music to bread-making workshops. It’s a chance to celebrate the season and the history of milling in one of Lambeth’s most iconic landmarks.
With over 80 events packed into the month, the Lambeth Heritage Festival is shaping up to be a real corker. Whether you’re a history buff, a culture vulture, or just looking for something different to do on a Saturday, this festival is the place to be. Check out the full programme online, and make sure you book ahead for any events that catch your eye—spaces are filling up fast, and you won’t want to miss out on the chance to discover the stories that make Lambeth the vibrant community it is today.
So, mark your calendars, dig out your comfiest shoes, and get ready to dive headfirst into the rich tapestry of Lambeth’s history. It’s going to be a month to remember.
