Plymouth Community History Festival: Fringe Events

Walks with History – A Walk from the Train, Gunnislake to Calstock

Saturday 27 September, 10am-4pm Meet at Plymouth Railway Station, PL4 6AB at 10am to catch the 10.24am train Join Walks with History as we explore the landscape and history of the Tamar Valley walking from Gunnislake to Calstock and following the route of the former east Cornwall Mineral Railway where possible. This will include a descent of part of the Danescombe incline which was used to get mineral railway wagons to the riverside at Calstock.

The walk is 3 miles and includes a steep decent for a short distance. All of the route is on roads or public footpaths. The walk and the train fare are pay on the day (in cash). Train fare is £5.50 and the walk is £5. We aim to be back in Plymouth by 4pm. For more details and to book a place please email Walks with History. No under 18s unless accompanied by an adult.

Crownhill Fort After Dark

Friday 3 October, 5-8pm Crownhill Fort Rd, Crownhill, Plymouth PL6 5BX See Crownhill Fort illuminated by a variety of historic lighting. The Parade Ground and museum displays will be open throughout the evening with a series of tours, talks, displays and gunfire taking place throughout the event.

£5 adults, £3 children (5-15 inclusive), parking £2.50 per vehicle. Advance booking is not essential but tickets can be purchased online. Unsold tickets will be available on the gate to purchase using cash only.

Historical Association (Plymouth Branch) Lecture: The Liberation Line – The Last Untold Story of the Normandy Landings

Tuesday 7 October, from 7pm Devonport Lecture Theatre, Portland Square Building, Plymouth PL4 8AA Enjoy a talk by award-winning writer and broadcaster, Christian Wolmar. For full details and ticket bookings via the Historical Association website.

Turnchapel History Group, Step Back in Time: A Guided Walk Through Turnchapel

Saturday 11 October, 10.30am-12pm Meeting place confirmed upon booking Join us for a guided walk through the charming village of Turnchapel, where every street and shoreline tells a story. Beginning with the earliest known records of the village, this journey through time will uncover fascinating tales of shipbuilding, sea pilots and missionaries, as well as Turnchapel’s surprising links to the Titanic and Darwin’s voyage on the Beagle.

As we walk in the footsteps of those who shaped Turnchapel’s past, you’ll immerse yourself in the unique maritime environment that has defined the community for centuries. Along the way, we’ll share archival images and historical illustrations to help bring these stories vividly to life.

Whether you’re a local who is curious about your village’s roots, a visitor seeking to explore Plymouth’s hidden gems, or simply someone who enjoys discovering history on foot, this walk offers a rich and memorable experience. £5 per person (cash on the day). Advance booking via email essential due to limited places.

Walks with History – A Blue Plaque Walk of Plymouth

Sunday 12 October, 11am-1.30pm Meet at The Box, Tavistock Place, Plymouth PL4 8AX Join Walks with History as we explore the city's history through its plaques and memorials. Look out for famous people, buildings and events that have been memorialised in stone, aluminium, brass, bronze and enamel. We will also look at the history of making blue plaques - and why not all of them are actually blue!

The walk is 2 miles towards Plymouth Hoe and return. All of the route is on roads or public footpaths. £5 per person (pay on the day). For more details and to book a place please email Walks with History. No under 18s unless accompanied by an adult.