THE MAKING OF SHREWSBURY: HISTORY SERIES 2
Now Ended. EPISODE ONE – FROM THE IRON AGE TO THE END OF THE ROMANS
From the iron Age to the end of the Romans
Early settlements in and around Shrewsbury, the arrival of the Romans and the development of Viroconium (Wroxeter), the Romans in Shropshire, the end of Roman Britannia
EPISODE TWO – THE ANGLO-SAXONS
The Anglo-Saxons
The Anglo-Saxons, their origins, culture and beliefs, the end of Viroconium and the origins of Shrewsbury, the fate of Wroxeter, Cynddylan, Welsh Prince and the mystery of Pengwern
Shrewsbury Historica : History Series 2
EPISODE THREE – THE LATER ANGLO-SAXONS
The later Anglo-Saxons
Anglo-Saxon royalty and Shropshire, Offa and the dyke, the Viking presence, Anglo-Saxon society, living in Anglo-Saxon Shrewsbury, plus some interesting facts about the Anglo-Saxons
EPISODE FOUR – THE NORMAN CONQUEST
The Norman Conquest
The Normans and resistance to Norman rule, the purpose of the castle, the early days of Shrewsbury Castle, the legend of Edric the Wild, Roger de Montgomery and the Marcher Lords
EPISODE FIVE – NORMAN SOCIETY
EPISODE FIVE – NORMAN SOCIETY
Norman Society
Social structures and the Domesday Book, the power of the Church, the founding of Shrewsbury Abbey, other religious houses in Shropshire and facts about Norman rule
SHREWSBURY INTERNATIONAL RECITAL SERIES: ST MARY’S CHURCH
The Shrewsbury Recital Series
Photo Credit: Uwe Arens
The Shrewsbury Recital Series brings world-class musicians to the heart of Shropshire, offering audiences the opportunity to enjoy exceptional live performances in an intimate and welcoming setting.
From celebrated international artists to outstanding emerging talent, the series presents a rich programme of piano, chamber, vocal and instrumental music.
Set against the backdrop of one of England's most historic towns, each recital combines artistic excellence with the unique atmosphere that makes Shrewsbury such a special cultural destination.
Whether you are a devoted concert-goer or discovering classical music for the first time, the Shrewsbury Recital Series promises inspiring performances and unforgettable musical experiences.
Zlata Chochieva, Our Pianist.
Photo Credit: AI
Zlata Chochieva performs at leading concert halls and festivals across Europe and North America, including appearances at Wigmore Hall, Konzerthaus Berlin and the Concertgebouw Amsterdam. Shropshire audiences have the rare opportunity to hear this internationally acclaimed pianist in recital through the Shrewsbury International Recital Series
Zlata Chochieva's recording of Chopin's Études isn't just one of the best; her sensational recording was named by Gramophone magazine as one of the Top 10 greatest Chopin recordings ever, praised as "consistently inspired, masterfully executed and beautiful-sounding".
Peter Barritt and the Shrewsbury Recital Trust
Peter Barritt and the Shrewsbury Recital Trust
Under the direction of Peter Barritt, the Shrewsbury International Recital Series has established a reputation for presenting some of the most outstanding young pianists on the international stage.
Through partnerships with organisations such as the Keyboard Trust, Barritt has brought an impressive succession of award-winning artists to Shrewsbury, including Anna Fedorova, Elisabeth Brauss, Mariam Batsashvili, Dinara Klinton, Daniel Lebhardt and Alim Beisembayev, many of whom perform regularly at leading concert halls and festivals throughout Europe and beyond. [shrewsbury...citals.com],
In 2026 the series has moved to The Church of St Mary the Virgin in the centre of Shrewsbury to help fund the purchase of a brand new Kawai GX5 piano, which has been donated to the church. St Mary’s is the oldest and most beautiful church in the historic town and dates back to the Saxon era. The church is famed for its stained glass collection and fabulous acoustics. The new grand piano was christened by the world-famous pianist Mariam Batsashvili on May 23rd 2026 in a sublime performance of music by Mozart, Schubert, Chopin and Brahms.
The Darwin Festival at Darwin House
Coming soon in February 2027
Darwin House where Charles Darwin was born and grew up.
Tickets are available later in the year.
Presentations
Talks on Charles Darwin's life..
House Tours
See his family homes
The Room where Darwin was born.
Charles Darwins family home where he lived until he was 27.
We create bespoke presentations for individual groups.
Topics have included Shrewsbury History, Darwin, & more.
National Women’s Register
Shrewsbury, Much Wenlock, Trentham
U3A Local History Groups 2
Hard of Hearing Group
Copthorne Ladies Group
Parkinsons UK Shrewsbury Branch
Ladies Lunchtime Association
Darwin Festival
St Mary’s Stained Glass Fest
Heritage Week
Forthcoming Additions
Friends of the Museum
Shrewsbury Inner Wheel
About Shrewsbury Historica
The Shrewsbury Historica Story
🧭 How Shrewsbury Historica Began
Shrewsbury Historica was created by Bibbs Cameron, whose heritage work in the town laid the foundation for the project.
• As Vice Chairman of the Civic Society, Bibbs led heritage walks, medieval‑life sessions, and museum‑style educational events.
• Bibbs’ experience as an ex‑British Museum guide shaped the early Historica style: hands‑on, story‑driven, and accessible.
👥 When Russell Game Joined
Russell Game expanded Historica’s scope and structure.
• Russell introduced the multi‑year History Series, adding chronological breadth from the Iron Age to the modern era.
• His teaching background brought academic depth, long‑form presentations, and detailed handouts.
• Together, Bibbs and Russell blended museum‑style storytelling with structured historical analysis, forming the signature Historica approach.
🏛 How the Partnership Shaped Today’s Programme
The collaboration produced the modern Shrewsbury Historica format:
• long, themed history series
• charity‑funded talks
• pub and inn tours
• medieval weekends
• Darwin and Civil War sessions
Alongside Historica, Bibbs has also organised major local festivals, including The Darwin Festival and The Stained Glass Festival.
🎗️ Commitment to Shrewsbury’s Charities
All Historica ticket income is donated to local charities, with Bibbs and Russell giving their time free of charge. This remains a core policy of the organisation..
The Shrewsbury Historica Story
🧭 How Shrewsbury Historica Began
Shrewsbury Historica was created by Bibbs Cameron, whose heritage work in the town laid the foundation for the project.
• As Vice Chairman of the Civic Society, Bibbs led heritage walks, medieval‑life sessions, and museum‑style educational events.
• Bibbs’ experience as an ex‑British Museum guide shaped the early Historica style: hands‑on, story‑driven, and accessible.
👥 When Russell Game Joined
Russell Game expanded Historica’s scope and structure.
• Russell introduced the multi‑year History Series, adding chronological breadth from the Iron Age to the modern era.
• His teaching background brought academic depth, long‑form presentations, and detailed handouts.
• Together, Bibbs and Russell blended museum‑style storytelling with structured historical analysis, forming the signature Historica approach.
🏛️ How the Partnership Shaped Today’s Programme
The collaboration produced the modern Shrewsbury Historica format:
• long, themed history series
• charity‑funded talks
• pub and inn tours
• medieval weekends
• Darwin and Civil War sessions
Alongside Historica, Bibbs has also organised major local festivals, including The Darwin Festival and The Stained Glass Festival.
🎗️ Commitment to Shrewsbury’s Charities
All Historica ticket income is donated to local charities, with Bibbs and Russell giving their time free of charge. This remains a core policy of the organisation..
The Shrewsbury Historica Story
🧭 How Shrewsbury Historica Began
Shrewsbury Historica was created by Bibbs Cameron, whose heritage work in the town laid the foundation for the project.
• As Vice Chairman of the Civic Society, Bibbs led heritage walks, medieval‑life sessions, and museum‑style educational events.
• Bibbs’ experience as an ex‑British Museum guide shaped the early Historica style: hands‑on, story‑driven, and accessible.
👥 When Russell Game Joined
Russell Game expanded Historica’s scope and structure.
• Russell introduced the multi‑year History Series, adding chronological breadth from the Iron Age to the modern era.
• His teaching background brought academic depth, long‑form presentations, and detailed handouts.
• Together, Bibbs and Russell blended museum‑style storytelling with structured historical analysis, forming the signature Historica approach.
🏛️ How the Partnership Shaped Today’s Programme
The collaboration produced the modern Shrewsbury Historica format:
• long, themed history series
• charity‑funded talks
• pub and inn tours
• medieval weekends
• Darwin and Civil War sessions
Alongside Historica, Bibbs has also organised major local festivals, including The Darwin Festival and The Stained Glass Festival.
🎗️ Commitment to Shrewsbury’s Charities
All Historica ticket income is donated to local charities, with Bibbs and Russell giving their time free of charge. This remains a core policy of the organisation..
The Shrewsbury Historica Story
🧭 How Shrewsbury Historica Began
Shrewsbury Historica was created by Bibbs Cameron, whose heritage work in the town laid the foundation for the project.
• As Vice Chairman of the Civic Society, Bibbs led heritage walks, medieval‑life sessions, and museum‑style educational events.
• Bibbs’ experience as an ex‑British Museum guide shaped the early Historica style: hands‑on, story‑driven, and accessible.
👥 When Russell Game Joined
Russell Game expanded Historica’s scope and structure.
• Russell introduced the multi‑year History Series, adding chronological breadth from the Iron Age to the modern era.
• His teaching background brought academic depth, long‑form presentations, and detailed handouts.
• Together, Bibbs and Russell blended museum‑style storytelling with structured historical analysis, forming the signature Historica approach.
🏛️ How the Partnership Shaped Today’s Programme
The collaboration produced the modern Shrewsbury Historica format:
• long, themed history series
• charity‑funded talks
• pub and inn tours
• medieval weekends
• Darwin and Civil War sessions
Alongside Historica, Bibbs has also organised major local festivals, including The Darwin Festival and The Stained Glass Festival.
🎗️ Commitment to Shrewsbury’s Charities
All Historica ticket income is donated to local charities, with Bibbs and Russell giving their time free of charge. This remains a core policy of the organisation..
The Shrewsbury Historica Story
🧭 How Shrewsbury Historica Began
Shrewsbury Historica was created by Bibbs Cameron, whose heritage work in the town laid the foundation for the project.
• As Vice Chairman of the Civic Society, Bibbs led heritage walks, medieval‑life sessions, and museum‑style educational events.
• Bibbs’ experience as an ex‑British Museum guide shaped the early Historica style: hands‑on, story‑driven, and accessible.
👥 When Russell Game Joined
Russell Game expanded Historica’s scope and structure.
• Russell introduced the multi‑year History Series, adding chronological breadth from the Iron Age to the modern era.
• His teaching background brought academic depth, long‑form presentations, and detailed handouts.
• Together, Bibbs and Russell blended museum‑style storytelling with structured historical analysis, forming the signature Historica approach.
🏛️ How the Partnership Shaped Today’s Programme
The collaboration produced the modern Shrewsbury Historica format:
• long, themed history series
• charity‑funded talks
• pub and inn tours
• medieval weekends
• Darwin and Civil War sessions
Alongside Historica, Bibbs has also organised major local festivals, including The Darwin Festival and The Stained Glass Festival.
🎗️ Commitment to Shrewsbury’s Charities
All Historica ticket income is donated to local charities, with Bibbs and Russell giving their time free of charge. This remains a core policy of the organisation..
The Shrewsbury Historica Story
🧭 How Shrewsbury Historica Began
Shrewsbury Historica was created by Bibbs Cameron, whose heritage work in the town laid the foundation for the project.
• As Vice Chairman of the Civic Society, Bibbs led heritage walks, medieval‑life sessions, and museum‑style educational events.
• Bibbs’ experience as an ex‑British Museum guide shaped the early Historica style: hands‑on, story‑driven, and accessible.
👥 When Russell Game Joined
Russell Game expanded Historica’s scope and structure.
• Russell introduced the multi‑year History Series, adding chronological breadth from the Iron Age to the modern era.
• His teaching background brought academic depth, long‑form presentations, and detailed handouts.
• Together, Bibbs and Russell blended museum‑style storytelling with structured historical analysis, forming the signature Historica approach.
🏛️ How the Partnership Shaped Today’s Programme
The collaboration produced the modern Shrewsbury Historica format:
• long, themed history series
• charity‑funded talks
• pub and inn tours
• medieval weekends
• Darwin and Civil War sessions
Alongside Historica, Bibbs has also organised major local festivals, including The Darwin Festival and The Stained Glass Festival.
🎗️ Commitment to Shrewsbury’s Charities
All Historica ticket income is donated to local charities, with Bibbs and Russell giving their time free of charge. This remains a core policy of the organisation..
About Bibbs
Bibbs Cameron is a shropshire born, Shrewsbury-based historian, heritage communicator, and co‑founder of Shrewsbury Historica, recognised for delivering polished, engaging public history across festivals, guided tours, and cultural programmes. Bibbs’ work is central to the interpretation of Darwin’s Shrewsbury, the Darwin family, and the architectural and social heritage of the town.
Before returning to the UK, Bibbs built a distinguished international career. After five years in Egypt, Bibbs served as a senior training airhostess and later as a sacred‑site tour guide, leading interpretive experiences at major historical and spiritual locations. Bibbs then spent twenty years in the United States, rising to the role of Vice President of an international company, developing high-level leadership, organisational strategy, and cross‑cultural communication expertise.
Bibbs also worked as a British Museum guide, delivering expert-led tours that connected global audiences with the museum’s world-class collections. This role strengthened Bibbs’ interpretive practice, deepened their engagement with material culture, and reinforced a commitment to accessible, narrative-driven public history.
A member of the Darwin Birthplace Trust, Bibbs contributes to national programming—including features for BBC Four.
About Russell
Russell Game is a Shrewsbury local whose lifelong connection to the town shapes both his historical work and his community service. As Head of the Department of History at Much Wenlock, Russell became known for his clear, engaging approach to teaching and for inspiring generations of students to explore Shropshire’s past.
Russell is the creator of the acclaimed History Series, a multi‑year project that brought Shrewsbury’s people, places, and stories to wider audiences through accessible, narrative‑driven presentations. The series has become a recognised contribution to local heritage interpretation and remains closely associated with Russell’s name.
A lifelong supporter of the Shrews, Russell’s commitment to civic life extends far beyond the classroom. He serves as a Trustee of U3A and the Shrewsbury Civic Society, contributing to educational initiatives, heritage preservation, and community engagement across the town.
As co‑founder of Shrewsbury Historica, Russell works alongside Bibbs Cameron to develop high‑quality public history materials, guided tours, and festival content that celebrate Shrewsbury’s cultural identity.