St Giles Fair has excited wonder throughout its centuries-old history. Developing from the medieval St Giles parish wake, it would become famed for the boisterous crowds drawn to its amusement rides, booths and sideshows. ‘It is,’ wrote John Betjeman in 1937 ‘about the biggest fair in England.’

This talk by guest speaker Tim Healey will tell the story of the fair from the earliest times to the present day, also encompassing other seasonal sprees around Oxfordshire – the Witney Wakes for example, and Charlbury’s Forest Fair. Join the Museum of Oxford for the start of our 2024-25 Lunchtime Talks programme with this richly illustrated presentation capturing all the fun of the fair!

Tim Healey is a freelance writer and broadcaster who has presented many programmes on BBC Radio 3 and Radio 4. A popular speaker at local history societies, he is also a frequent contributor to The Oxford Times, taking a special interest in local heritage. Tim studied at Balliol College in Oxford and will be known to many as leader of the 17th-century costume band The Oxford Waits.

Tickets are available for £5 online or at the Museum Shop (booking fee applies online). It is advised that you book tickets in advance due to previous demand.
Complimentary tea and coffee will be available to enjoy during the talk. Please arrive before the start of the talk if you would like to grab a refreshment.

Sales from tickets help support the Museum’s work to deliver fun and accessible family activities, community engagement projects, schools workshops, exhibitions and special events for Oxford’s people in our Museum spaces.

£5