THE BBC History Magazine History Weekend returns to Malmesbury on October 15-18 after two successful years in town.

Almost 40 historians and authors will attend the event including Simon Schama, Melyn Bragg, Michael Wood, Max Hastings and Lloyd Grossman.

The ancient hilltop town provided a fitting backdrop for the event, as it is the burial place of Aethelstan, grandson of King Alfred the Great and first King of England.

Lectures will take place at Malmesbury Town Hall, a special marquee, the Old Bell hotel and Malmesbury Abbey.

Local historian Tony McAleavy will open the event with the story of Malmesbury on Thursday, October 15.

Author of Fighter Boys and Bomber Boys, Patrick Bishop will deliver a talk entitled Air Force Blue – The RAF in World War Two on Friday.

It has been 75 years since the Battle of Britain marked a turning point in the War and James Holland will explore the conflict in his lecture Battle of Britain: Myth and Reality.

The Tudors have fascinated historians for centuries and the weekend there are a number of talks on the dynasty with author Alison Weir discussing The Lost Tudor Princess.

Renowned historian and broadcaster Marc Morris delivers a talk on King John, looking at the man behind the legend.

  • For more information and to book tickets visit historyweekend.com