<img src='' title='Event Category: In Conversation' alt='' id='templ_icon_' width='' height='' /> Event Category: In Conversation

Matinees of Murders and Mysteries presents… Carol Ann Lee

Join Sunday Times bestselling author Carol Ann Lee for a fascinating afternoon exploring one of England’s most notorious true crime cases.

In her compelling new book, “Something Wicked”, Carol revisits the infamous Pendle Witch Trials of 1612, when ten people were executed and another died awaiting trial in Lancaster Castle. For over 400 years, the story has been shaped by myth, superstition and a single account written in favour of the prosecution.

Now, approaching the case as true crime, Carol uncovers the real people behind the legends, the feuding families, the so-called ‘cunning women’ and the extraordinary chain of events that led to one of the darkest episodes in English history.

Packed with fresh discoveries and intriguing revelations, “Something Wicked” sheds new light on enduring mysteries, including the truth behind Malkin Tower and the final resting place of the Pendle witches.

The afternoon will feature an interview with Carol, where we really get to the heart of the book, it will be followed by an audience Q&A.

Carol is best known for her acclaimed books including “A Fine Day for Hanging: The Real Ruth Ellis Story”, “One of Your Own: The Life and Death of Myra Hindley”, “The Murders at White House Farm”, and “The Pottery Cottage Murder”, Carol has built a reputation for bringing some of Britain’s darkest and most compelling stories vividly to life.

History. Mystery. Murder. Discover the story behind the legend.

Emmeline Pankhurst – Angel or Anarchist? + Post-Show Q&A

This powerful one woman show, starring acclaimed actress Liz Grand, brings to life the extraordinary story of Emmeline Pankhurst, one of the most influential and iconic British women in history. A tireless champion of women’s rights, Pankhurst led the fight for women to gain the vote, enduring multiple imprisonments and undertaking numerous hunger strikes in the name of equality.

After nearly thirty years of being ignored by Parliament, she famously turned to Direct Action. Under her leadership, the Suffragettes escalated their campaign—throwing stones at politicians, setting fire to letter boxes, damaging property, and chaining themselves to railings—to make their voices impossible to ignore.

Although their determination ultimately succeeded, the path to victory came at a great personal cost to many brave women. And despite her pivotal role, Emmeline herself was not universally admired. Some argued that the more confrontational methods delayed, rather than accelerated, progress.

This performance offers a compelling, intimate portrait of a woman whose courage reshaped history—and of a movement that changed the world.

Performed by the Liz Grand (Where Is Mrs Christie?)

Written by Chris Jaeger

Presented by On A Role

Matt Rendell’s Inside Stories of the Tour de France

ITV Tour de France commentator Matt Rendell shares stories from his 25 years’ covering the Tour – and his dealings with cycling’s big names from Eddy Merckx to Bradley Wiggins, Mark Cavendish to Chris Froome.

Matt’s live shows delight audiences with a magically unpredictable mix of first-hand experiences of the biggest races on the calendar, bizarre/hilarious personal stories from his life as a commentator and thought-provoking ideas about the future (and history) of the sport.

We are delighted to have Matt coming to the Bonington in the first week of the 2026 Tour. Matt will be in conversation with former Procycling writer Duncan Steer. There will be a chance to ask your own questions.