Uncovering the Lost Celtic Past of North West England: Annual Bowland Lecture

Browsholme Hall’s Tithe Barn will be the setting for an early autumn lecture delivered by Neil Whalley on the evening of Tuesday, October 1.

In his talk, The Celtic history of the North West, local historian Neil Whalley will trace the history of the ‘Celts’ in the North West, from their European origins to their eventual disappearance, exploring their language, religion, literature and legends, and looking at what they left behind.  

The Celtic past in North West England is fascinating but, according to Neil, often overlooked. Fragments of evidence from history, archaeology and literature help us piece together a world of ancient gods and tribal territories, and a medieval warrior society inhabited by semi-legendary kings, bards and saints. Meanwhile, place names offer a glimpse at the lost Celtic language of Cumbric, once spoken in the region. 

Mike Pugh, Chair of Champion Bowland, will introduce the lecture, which aims to raise funds for both Champion Bowland and another local charity, Slaidburn Archive. The evening will take place in the atmospheric surroundings of the Tithe Barn at Browsholme hall, thanks to the generosity of the Parker family. Mike said:

“We are all looking forward to the first Tuesday in October for the Bowland Lecture at Browsholme Hall. This year offers a new perspective on the peoples of Bowland with Neil Whalley recounting our Celtic past.”

The lecture will begin at 7.30pm, with a pay bar available from 7pm.  Admission is £5 and places need to be booked in advance by emailing sandra.silk@lancashire.gov.uk, or by telephoning 07973 923142.

Posted
22nd August 2024
in News