Welcome to Slimbridge Local History Society

Discover the stories, people and places that have shaped the Gloucestershire parish of Slimbridge.

From Iron Age settlements and Roman occupation to the people and events that have shaped the parish in more recent times, there is a remarkable amount of history beneath our feet – and still plenty more to discover. Slimbridge Local History Society brings together people who are interested in exploring, researching and sharing its history. We organise entertaining and informative talks, presentations and outings, and we’re always keen to welcome new faces.

Digging into the past.

For the past few years, members of the society have been able to do something rather special – get their hands dirty and help uncover Slimbridge’s past.

Since 2018, archaeological investigations on the edge of the village have been revealing evidence of Iron Age and Roman settlements. Excavations have uncovered some remarkable discoveries, including artefacts of international importance, and the work is helping to shed new light on the Roman occupation of this part of the country.

And you don’t have to be an experienced archaeologist to get involved.

Fancy spending a day (or two!) on an archaeological dig? You can join us and experience hands-on history for yourself. You don’t even have to be a member of the society.

Find out more about the excavations, what we’ve discovered and how you can take part by visiting our Archaeological Project page.

Come and join us.

Our society is open to everyone – whether you live in Slimbridge, have a connection with the parish, or simply have an interest in local history in this area.

Membership is on a calendar-year basis and includes free entry to our presentations and talks. Members also receive regular news and updates by email, as well as information through this website and our Facebook page. Check out the Membership page for more detail on how to join.

Explore our digital past.

Members can also explore the Slimbridge Digital Archive, a growing collection of photographs, documents, newspaper reports and other material relating to the parish. We’re always looking for more material to add to the archive and preserve for future generations. If you have photographs, documents or other items relating to Slimbridge that you think could be worth preserving, we’d love to hear from you. Get in touch at archives@slimbridgelhs.com.

There’s always more to discover.

Whether you’re a lifelong resident, new to the village, researching your family history or simply curious about what happened here before us, we hope you’ll find something to interest you.

Have a look around the website and discover more about Slimbridge, its fascinating past and the people who are helping to uncover it.

“History builds on events that are in themselves totally insignificant.” — Nelson Mandela