These Isles: The Story of the People who shaped the UK

Brian Groom, journalist and historian, returns with a talk based on his latest ambitious project, the fascinating history of the British and Irish Isles from the first human footsteps to the present day – including the role played by Bolton and Lancashire.

The talk is based in his new book These Isles: A People’s History of England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland, due out in early 2026.

Brian has previously spoken to us about northern England’s history and culture, based on his best-selling book Northerners: A History, from the Ice Age to the Present Day, and about the key figures – including Boltonians – in his recent book, Made in Manchester: A People’s History of the City that Shaped the Modern World.

Originally from Stretford, Brian spent most of his career at the Financial Times, where he did senior jobs including political editor and assistant editor. He also launched and later edited Scotland on Sunday, the Scotsman’s Sunday paper. He now lives in Saddleworth.