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The Vicar of Bray

Upper Dale Road, Derby, Derbyshire, DE23 8BP

  • 16 Sep 2025
  • In person
  • Pre-booking not required

In the popular song of the 18th century, this very adaptable parson boasted that he was able to accommodate himself to religious views of successive monarchs and that “whosoever King may reign, he would always be the Vicar of Bray, Sir".

James Simister, who regularly gives talks on cruise ships and on land, will explore the turbulent history of England through the prism of the religious changes wittily and succinctly summarised in the song. The story starts with the Restoration of the Monarchy after the Civil Wars and Cromwell’s republic, and ends with the accession of George of Hanover, supplanting the Stuart dynasty who continued to plot and threaten Britain. The talk will be supported with slides reflecting the changes in architecture and the arts through the reigns of Charles II, James II, William III & Mary, Anne, and George I.

Timings & Tours

Tuesday 16 September:
15.00-16.30

Location & directions

Upper Dale Road, Derby, Derbyshire, DE23 8BP

Directions:
The church has limited parking behind, otherwise please park in neighbouring streets. Buses 4, 6 and 7 from central Derby stop outside the church. The church will be open from 12 noon - 5pm, refreshments available. There will be an exhibition and information trail around the church interior.
Contact on day:
Jo Simister
Telephone number:
+447796410850

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:
Pre-booking not required

Additional information

There will be an exhibition and information trail around the church interior. The church will be open from 12 noon - 5pm.

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