2025/26 Lecture Programme

Our lectures are held at the Elim Church, Waterside Park, Ashbourne DE6 1DG. The meeting room opens at 2.00 pm and the speaker commences at 2:30 pm. We hope to provide the talks both in person at the venue and via Zoom – please see individual entries below to see if they are available via Zoom. Where applicable, please use the Eventbrite link associated with the talk to receive the Zoom joining details: the cost to non-members will be £5.00.

Due to a major refurbishment of the Elim Church, our October, November and December meetings, and possibly January meeting, will take place at an alternative venue. Options are currently being considered.

To register for lectures and receive the Zoom links, if not posted below, and for any further information, please email ashheritagesoc@gmail.com

2025

Friday 26 September.

The Historic Village of Mapleton

A walk around the historic village of Mapleton which will be guided by local resident and member of the Society, Rachel Hodgkinson. This will be followed by refreshments in the new Pavilion.

Friday 24 October.

Victorian Tourist Souvenirs and Ashbourne

A presentation by John Titterton, local historian and member of the Society.

Friday 28 November.

In Search of England’s Oldest Pubs

The speaker, James Wright (Triskele Heritage), is an award winning buildings archaeologist.

Friday 19 December.

Christmas Event

The last meeting of the year will be a social meeting with a seasonal heritage themed quiz and a festive buffet. Attendees are welcome to bring contributions to the buffet. Any liquid refreshment must be non-alcoholic.

Attendees are also welcome to bring along a heritage related object for discussion and possible identification.

Friday 23 January.

Napoleonic French Prisoners of War in Derbyshire

A talk by regular guest speaker, Dr Mark Barnard.

Friday 27 February.

Frank Beresford: Artist of Royalty, History and Landscapes

A talk, re-arranged from last year, by Robert Read.

Friday 27 March.

Mary Queen of Scots and Staffordshire

A talk by Trevor Fisher.

Friday 24 April.

William Collins, Sir Gilbert Scott’s Builder

A talk by John Titterton

Friday 22 May.

Landscapes Unlocked: Stories from the Peak District’s Image Archive

A talk by Anna Badcock, the Peak District National Park’s Cultural Heritage Manager.