Join Newnham College to celebrate 150 years of pioneering women

From code-breakers to playmakers, Newnham College will celebrate 150 years of pioneering women with a free festival of arts, science and ideas.

The Cambridge college will throw open its doors for the two-day festival, which is open to all, on July 2 and 3.

The event will see a starry list of Newnham’s top academics and former students return to salute the college’s history. With talks, performances, and activities, as well as the chance to explore the beautiful grounds, the event blends ground-breaking ideas with family fun.

You can check out a new short film about DNA pioneer Rosalind Franklin and hear the latest revelations about black holes from the college’s own resident expert, or stargaze from an inflatable planetarium.

Meanwhile you can also choose between a talk from renowned novelist Margaret Drabble, or storytime with award-winning children’s writers Charlotte Sebag-Montefiore and Anita Lehmann.

Other highlights include a talk from London 2012 Gold medallist Anna Watkins, a rowing challenge organised by students from the Newnham College Boat Club and a session on entrepreneurship with TV presenter and serial CEO Alison Cork.

Among the standout performances will be a recital from internationally-renowned pianist Anna Tilbrook, and Granta Chorale performing new music by Janet Wheeler.

Principal Alison Rose said: “From our rebellious past, to our ground-breaking present, to our hopes and dreams for the future. It’s a huge thank you from us to you.”

For free tickets, register at bit.ly/3tfLrgc.