Uncover the story of an Italian family who made their home in a rapidly changing Victorian spa town. Drawing on research by Louise Brooks, Julian Cohen, Kathryn Barton and Gill Williamson , this fascinating talk explores the lives of Francisco Anzani and his family through census returns, newspaper archives and other historical records. Together, these sources reveal the experiences of one immigrant family and offer a unique perspective on Victorian Buxton during a period of extraordinary growth and transformation. Presented by Julian Cohen and Louise Brooks , this talk brings together collaborative research to uncover the intriguing story of an Italian family in Buxton and the rich history of a town on the rise.

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SHHHH! There’s something VERY strange happening in the library…As the town gathers for its annual celebrations, strange things are happening between the shelves at the library.Books are disappearing and pages are being nibbled.  Robyn knows they didn’t do it. But to save the library, Robyn might have to break the biggest rule of all.Robyn and the Book Monster is a festive adventure suitable for all and it’s bursting with puppets, shadow play, and a story that refuses to stay on the page. Funny, magical and full of heart, this production is a joyful celebration of the imagination, belonging and the love of a good story. Perfect for anyone who has ever felt a little overlooked… or a little too loud.

Step into the enchanting world of Francisco Anzani's Rocking Horse Bazaar this Christmas. Inspired by a magical tale set in Victorian Buxton, families can follow a festive trail, create dancing horses, explore traditional toys, dress as Victorian visitors, and share their own Christmas memories. Discover how stories, music, and community bring Christmas magic to life in this interactive heritage experience for all ages. Price: £10 adults, £6 Children, under 3s go free Dates: Weekends in December Times: 10am and 1:00pm Lasts approximately 90 minutes Price includes  entry to the Buxton Crescent Experience a story telling session dressing up playing traditional games take home crafts

This talk explores the origins of Quakerism in the chaos of the mid-seventeenth century in England. Following the devastating civil wars, the population was left exhausted, traumatised, and living in a shattered landscape. In this context of ruin and uncertainty, a new religious movement emerged in the north of England. The early Quakers, driven by intense spiritual conviction, believed it was their duty to save souls at any cost. Their methods were seen by many as extreme and they repeatedly defied the authorities.  Dr Canela’s talk challenges the idealised image of early Quakerism, revealing a group of believers whose fervour sometimes led to deeply troubling behaviour. They stood firm in their beliefs, often risking persecution and death. In doing so, they demonstrated how far people will go, especially in times of crisis, to seek safety, truth, and divine purpose. Even when it meant crossing the line between faith and fanaticism. Dr. Erica Canela is an early modern social historian whose work brings the turbulent world of the seventeenth‑century vividly to life. Her research focuses on trauma, religious radicalism, and the lived experience of ordinary people caught in extraordinary upheaval. She is the author of Zealous: A Darker Side of the Early Quakers , published internationally in 2025. A sought-after speaker and public historian, Erica has featured on American History Hit, Dan Snow’s History Hit, Not Just the Tudors, After Dark, History Rage, On the Record: The National Archives Podcast, History with Jackson, Talking Tudors, and other leading podcasts and festivals. She is known for her emotionally resonant approach to storytelling, blending archival precision with a deep commitment to recovering marginalised voices

Join Edwyrdian Tales beside the glittering lights of the Christmas Tree for three haunting ghost stories of the season. This year our night of festive spirits features terrors from classic authors of the age… H.R. Wakefield, Algernon Blackwood and an original tale from the pen of our storyteller. In “Lucky’s Grove” a family discover the dangers of bringing in the wrong Christmas Tree for their celebrations. The twinkling fairy lights cannot illuminate the very real darkness they have let loose into their home. In “The Wendigo” a lonely hunting party in far flung pine forests hear the terrible call of the wild. Something walks amongst the towering trees, and upon the wind itself. And in “The Elder Son” a father tries to carve the perfect Christmas gift from a broken tree. A gift he bitterly regrets as soon as it is made. Bone chilling tales to conjure the spirits of Christmas...A one-man performance, directed and haunted by Matthew Wood(Not suitable for children under 10 years of age)Price: £17 full / £14 concessions Running Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Following on from GreenMatthews' 12 years of successful touring Christmas shows, Gaudete! is an expanded lineup playing new and exciting arrangements of Chris and Sophie’s popular festive fare. Featuring Emily Baines on early woodwinds and Richard Heacock on violin, their music is lush, rich and heartwarming – perfectly evoking the Spirit of Christmas Past.  Their repertoire spans 600 years from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. Featuring Christmas carols, winter folk songs, toe-tapping tunes and a plethora of weird and wonderful instruments, Gaudete! brings the festive season to life in a riot of sound and colour!  Chris Green and Sophie Matthews are modern - day balladeers, specialising in telling stories through song. GreenMatthews are firm belivers in the age-old power of narrative song to delight contemporary audiences. Taking their cue from ancient troubadour tradition, they are 21-century wandering players touring their self created shows throughout the UK and Europe.  “You guys are awesome!” Bill Barclay, Director of Music at Shakespeare’s Globe

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Where: The Assembly Room, Buxton Crescent, SK17 6BH  Opens 10.00am to 4.00pm  Entry available on the door cash or card payment: £4 per person  Discover a stunning selection of curated treasures, vintage and textiles brought together exclusively for this event. -Browse antique and vintage textiles, Interior items, costumes and much more. -Find that one-of-a-kind outfit or standout piece to enhance your home. -Be captivated by the charm of sustainable, original, and eclectic designs. -Connect with expert dealers from across the UK. -Opportunity to explore the unique Assembly Room within the Grade 1 Crescent. All event proceeds supports the charitable activities of the Buxton Crescent Heritage Trust.  To book a trading pitch or any questions for this event please email matt@buxtoncrescenttrust.org

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You Are Cordially Invited to the Dickensian Ball Step back in time and experience the grace and splendour of the 19th century at this year’s Dickensian Ball, to be held in the historic Assembly Room of the Buxton Crescent. Guests will enjoy an enchanting evening of dancing and entertainment, accompanied by authentic period music performed by the Archaedium Ensemble, with dances elegantly called by Georgia Delve. A dance practice session will take place earlier in the day for those wishing to familiarise themselves with the dances or refine their steps prior to the Ball. Event Details 📅 Saturday, 28th November 2026 🕖 Arrivals: 7:00 PM | Dancing Commences: 7:30 PM | Carriages: 11:00 PM 📍 Venue: The Assembly Room, Buxton Crescent 👗 Dress Code: Period attire (circa 1835–1870) 🩰 Dance Practice: 2:00–4:00 PM, The Assembly Room The event is open to all, though attendance is recommended for those aged 18 years and over. Should you require assistance with costume preparation or further details, please do not hesitate to make contact. Please note: Refunds will only be available if tickets can be resold within a suitable timeframe prior to the event.

Where: The Assembly Room, Buxton Crescent, SK17 6BH  Opens 10am to 4pm  Entry available on the door cash or card payment: £4 per person  Trading £35 per 6ft pitch, additional can be purchased. Tables can be hired at an additional cost from the hotel which we can arrange for you. Please note limited amount are available of 6ft and 4ft sizes.   Pitches must be booked in advance with completed booking forms. Discover a stunning selection of curated treasures, vintage and textiles brought together exclusively for this event.  -Browse antique and vintage textiles, Interior items, costumes and much more.  -Find that one-of-a-kind outfit or standout piece to enhance your home.  -Be captivated by the charm of sustainable, original, and eclectic designs.  -Connect with expert dealers from across the UK.  -Opportunity to explore the unique Assembly Room within the Grade 1 Crescent.  All event proceeds supports the charitable activities of the Buxton Crescent Heritage Trust.  To book a trading pitch or any questions for this event please email matt@buxtoncrescenttrust.org

Where do you start when teaching local history and geography topics? Often there are no ready-made resources, and you may not live in the same area as your school. This CPD programme equips you with a pack of historical maps and images unique to your school's locality and expert training in how to use them. It begins with a 1 hour online introduction on Thursday 26th September, 4.00-5.00pm and then a full day of training on the 17th October. 17th October 2024 The Assembly Rooms, Buxton Crescent 10.00am - 4.00pm  Free and cover costs paid up to £130 per school   Inclusions What's Included 🍴 Food 🥤 Drink

Why?   • Boost your knowledge of local history links to significant national and international events;   • Discover hands-on sessions and inspiring resources available for schools from Buxton’s heritage organisations. • Enjoy delicious refreshments and network with other teachers in the beautiful Victorian Pump Room. Who is speaking? Louise Brooks - Head of Education and Engagement at  BCHT and Taxal and Fernilee primary school teacher Ismail Dale - Historic England's Heritage Schools Programme Manager Katie Potter - Education Co-ordinator BCHT Martha Jasko-Lawrence - Derbyshire Museums Manager Rachell Cooksey - Transition Manager - Buxton Civic Association We would love to see you there and would be very  grateful if you could share this webpage  with any other colleagues and friends  who you think would benefit from coming along. If you would like to find out more about BCHT's offer for schools, this page has everything you need to know https://buxtoncrescentexperience.com/schools/,  Or contact learn@bchtrust.org with any questions.

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