The Countess of Derby has launched an innovative History programme that aims to inspire, entertain, and educate by bringing to life 600 years of British history through the fascinating stories of the Derby family and their ancestral home, Knowsley Hall.
The programme will offer a fresh perspective on British history, showcasing the pivotal role the Derby family has played in shaping political, cultural, and artistic life across the centuries. Discover captivating narratives from leading historians, writers, and art historians.
For the Countess of Derby, there is an extremely serious side to the project. She and Frank Cottrell Boyce (Children’s Poet Laureate) have been discussing the lack of A-level opportunities in the borough of Knowsley since 2016 and have joined forces to raise awareness.
The Countess of Derby said, “It is appalling that our local pupils find themselves without any sixth-form opportunity. How can children feel aspiration or hope if they are not offered a sixth-form opportunity for further education? I am hoping that I can use these study days focusing on perspectives on different aspects of History to bring attention back to this matter and share the message with leading academics and writers who speak at these events”.
Frank Cottrell Boyce added, “Knowsley is a borough that has a profound and thrilling connection to some of the greatest and most dramatic moments of English history – from the golden age of Elizabeth to the highs and lows of the nineteenth century. At the same time, Knowsley is one of the most deprived boroughs in the country. There is no sixth-form provision in the borough. The Knowsley Hall history days set out to connect the people of Knowsley with their own astoundingly rich heritage. And to make the rest of the country aware of just what talent and what a legacy this place holds”.
This inspiring new programme begins in 2025 with the Knowsley Hall Symposium. Curated and hosted by the Countess of Derby, the symposium is a series of four study days that will delve into the rich and fascinating history of the Derby family, bringing together leading academics and acclaimed writers.
The first study days are in July with two captivating events: The Derby Women Celebrating the Women in the House of Stanley on 3 July; followed by an insight into the key figures in the Men Who Lost America on the day of the anniversary of Declaration of Independence 4 July.
In October, the programme continues with two reflective sessions: ‘The Life and Legacy of the 13th Earl of Derby’ and ‘The Life and Legacy of the 14th Earl of Derby’, celebrating the enduring impact of these influential figures who both held a profound belief in the importance of education for social mobility.
3 July 2025 The Derby Women Celebrating the Women in the House of Stanley
Many Stanley women had to run the estates when their husbands were away on political or court business, and alongside their preoccupation with the future of the dynasty, for many, the creation of a great house became their life’s work.
Without a great house at its centre, land had little function in the display of wealth, position and power. You will hear from leading historians the incredible stories of five of the Derby women.
Speakers
- Lady Derby
- Dr Elizabeth Norton
- Dr Vanessa Wilkie
- Dr Anna Keay OBE
- Emma Donoghue
- Dr Jennifer Davey
4 July 2025 Independence Day Celebration: The Men Who Lost America
This will focus on three of the key men who lost America. You will hear more about George Sackville Germain, General John Burgoyne, and General Charles Cornwallis and learn about their stories and their families.
Speakers
- Lady Derby
- Professor Jeremy Black
- Professor Andrew O’Shaughnessy
- Professor Norman Poser
“I am thrilled to share and explore the remarkable story of Knowsley Hall and the Derby Family. History is not something to be studied in textbooks alone – it’s alive, it’s personal, and it has the power to shape our lives today,” says the Countess of Derby.
Visitors can choose to attend just one of the study days or multiple days. There is also an exclusive opportunity to stay at Knowsley Hall the night before each Study Day, where you will join the Countess of Derby and the speakers for dinner in the State Dining Room. This gives you an unforgettable way to experience the Hall before your Study Day.
History Study Day tickets cost £75pp; please use promo code Knowsley History to save £25 on July event days.
Event tickets, overnight stay, and continental breakfast cost £350 (single occupancy) or £425 (double occupancy).
Tickets are available via the website here.
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