Running from late January through to the end of February, the festival explores Charles Darwin’s scientific achievements alongside the people, places and experiences that shaped his thinking. Events will take place at a range of historic venues including Bear Steps Medieval Hall, Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery, Shrewsbury School, Theatre Severn, Wroxeter Roman City and locations around the town centre.
Highlights include a series of in-depth talks at Bear Steps Medieval Hall, such as “Charles Darwin’s Travels in North Wales” on Thursday 5 February, exploring how Darwin’s early geological studies influenced his later work, and “The Darwin Family: Relationships & Health Challenges” on Sunday 8 February, which looks at the personal and medical history of the Darwin family.
The festival also features rare access to the Darwin Collection at Shrewsbury School on Wednesday 11 February, offering a unique chance to view original letters, school materials and a presentation copy of On the Origin of Species.
Darwin’s birthday is marked on Thursday 12 February with a Birthday Toast and Guided Walk through the town, tracing the places that shaped his early life, followed by a programme of talks at the Barnes Theatre. The festival culminates with the prestigious Darwin Memorial Lecture on Sunday 15 February, delivered by Professor Robert Foley FBA at the Walker Theatre.
Free Spotlight Talks at Shrewsbury Museum run throughout the festival, alongside hands-on family activities such as Darwin’s Wiggly Worms at Wroxeter Roman City.
Whether you’re passionate about science, history or Shrewsbury’s heritage, the Darwin Festival 2026 offers a fascinating and varied programme for all ages.