Chester Heritage Festival returns on Saturday 23 May with a free launch day packed with live events — including workouts with BBC Gladiators 2025 winner Amanda Wah, a special Talking Chester event inside Picturehouse, and an appearance by Sunday Times bestselling author Ben Kane. The festival continues through to Sunday 7 June, offering a rich programme of talks, guided walks and unique experiences for all ages.

Heritage Chester CIC is delighted to announce the opening of Chester Heritage Festival 2026 with a spectacular free launch day on Saturday 23 May. Taking place across some of Chester’s most iconic locations, the launch day offers something for everyone — whether you’re a history enthusiast, a fitness fan, or simply looking for a brilliant family day out.

Get Moving with Gladiators Champion Amanda Wah

One of the highlights of launch day will be the chance to get active with Amanda Wah, the winner of BBC Gladiators 2025. Amanda will be leading two free outdoor workouts at 1pm and 2pm — a unique opportunity to train with one of the UK’s most exciting new sports stars, right in the heart of Chester. Spaces are free, so come ready to move.

Bestselling Author Ben Kane at Picturehouse Chester

As part of the popular Talking Chester series, Ben Kane will appear at Picturehouse Chester on launch day. With more than two million books sold worldwide and eleven Sunday Times Top Ten bestsellers to his name, Ben is one of historical fiction’s most celebrated voices. His passion for history has taken him to more than 60 countries — including hundreds of miles walked in Roman military gear. In this special talk, Ben focuses on his Spartacus series, exploring the research, the drama and the human stories behind Spartacus: The Gladiator and Spartacus: Rebellion. Free tickets are still available — book yours now to avoid missing out.

Free Family Fun Throughout Half Term

The festival offers a full programme of FREE family-friendly activities across the half term week, giving children and families the chance to explore Chester’s extraordinary history in engaging, hands-on ways. From interactive experiences to outdoor adventures, Heritage Festival has made it easier than ever for local families to discover the city’s incredible story without spending a penny.

Talks, Walks and Experiences to 7 June

Chester Heritage Festival 2026 extends well beyond half term, with a curated programme of expert-led talks, behind-the-scenes experiences and guided walks running all the way through to Sunday 7 June. Whether you’re looking to delve deeper into Chester’s Roman or Viking heritage, or simply want to explore the city from a fresh perspective, the extended programme offers plenty to discover.

Stuart Robinson, Director, Heritage Chester CIC, says:

“Full of sounds, colour and activities, the launch day for Chester Heritage Festival really is a day for the whole community. Thanks to all the support we have received, we’ll be building on last year’s hugely successful day and welcoming everyone to Exchange Square and Chester Picturehouse where there’ll be music, activities, crafts and even challenges for all the family. This fantastic event leads into two weeks celebrating the fascinating city of Chester, from its origins to the present day.”

Chester Heritage Festival 2026 runs from Saturday 23 May to Sunday 7 June. The free launch day takes place on 23 May. For the full programme, free ticket bookings and more information, visit chesterheritagefestival.co.uk or follow Heritage Chester on social media.

Chester Heritage Festival 2026 is made possible thanks to the incredible generosity of our crowdfunding supporters and the continued commitment of our partners, whose belief in Chester’s heritage makes events like this possible