Participants from The Churn Project had a fantastic time at this year’s Cirencester History Festival, enjoying activities that celebrated local heritage and brought the community together.
From the fascinating Old Station Experience to hands-on historical cooking sessions for families, Churn Project participants were able to experience events that sparked curiosity, learning and creativity.
Ageing Well – Old Station Experience
The Old Station Experience offered a rare behind-the-scenes look at the former Cirencester Town Station. Participants enjoyed guided tours with new owner and local architect Jonathan Rixon, explored an exhibition of archive photographs, and stepped back in time with a virtual reality recreation of the original Victorian station.
Families – Historical Cookery School
Our families loved taking part in the festival’s Historical Cookery School. The “Jane Austen’s Regency Tea” workshop with the Cotswold Cookery School was a particular favourite, where everyone got hands-on making strawberry tartlets, apple tarts, marzipan hedgehogs, and rich Regency-style hot chocolate.
Community Wellbeing – Lost Art of Ancient Grains
At The Long Table, participants explored the “Lost Art of Ancient Grains” workshop led by baker Tom Herbert. The session offered the chance to learn traditional milling and baking techniques using ancient grains. It was a wonderful opportunity to build skills, enjoy time together, and celebrate food heritage in a welcoming space.
For many, these activities offered opportunities they might not otherwise have been able to access — helping to make the festival truly inclusive and welcoming to all.
The Churn Project would like to say a heartfelt thank you to the organisers of the Cirencester History Festival for creating such a wonderfully accessible and community-minded event, ensuring everyone could take part, learn, and have fun together.
It was a joy to be involved in such a vibrant celebration of Cirencester’s history, connection, and community spirit.
We shall look forward to it once again next year!