We are a friendly group, who are interested in the local history of Basingstoke and Deane and the surrounding area plus topics and discussions, based on how our lives have changed. We visit local history sites, generally in the better weather and enjoy presentations by our members and discussions indoors, when the weather is not so good. You would be welcome to join us.

Programme for April to September 2024

11th April – Walking Tour of the centre of Winchester

9th May – Guided Tour of the Vyne, provided by a National Trust volunteer

13th June – Basingstoke Canal Barge Trip, including nibbles, cream scones.

There are places left on all these trips.

11th July - Holy Ghost Cemetery – walking tour, including visiting some of the most important buildings, memorials and graves.

8th August - Walking tour of Farnham - we will have a talk about the history of Farnham and visit some of the more interesting historical sites

12th September - Meeting in the Shaftesbury Room, Christ Church, Chineham to welcome new members to the group; have a short social/local history presentation and (most importantly) decide on the new programme for the next 12 months.

Recent Activity

· A guided tour around the Basingstoke History Trail

· A Christmas party , with a talk about a privateer from the 16th century who had Basingstoke connections. We then broke into teams for a 4 round local history quiz on Basingstoke and other parts of Hampshire, whilst enjoying a drink, nibbles and cakes.

· AD 878 exhibition at Winchester

· A guided tour of Silchester Roman town (Calleva)

· A talk on the history of the Manydown Estate