What’s On
Our volunteers work hard to provide events relating to the history of the village and the surrounding area. All talks will be held in the Rowlands Castle Parish Hall at 7.30 pm. Entrance is free for members of the Historical Society and £5 for non-members. Membership of the Historical Society is £20. Contact the editor or history@rowlandscastleheritagecentre.org.uk if you would like to get involved or have any questions.
21st October 2025
“Rowlands Castle and the Coming of the Railway – a Social History” In recognition of the 200th anniversary of Rail Transport, Brian Tomkinson tells the story of the coming of the railway to Rowlands Castle and its effect on the residents and the development of the village.
18th November 2025
RCH&H AGM followed by “Local History Discoveries” After the AGM, Brian Tomkinson will share some of the local history enquiries we have received and the stories that have emerged. Topics might include the SAS, the missing poacher and an early RC stationmaster.
16th December 2025
“Stephen Cribb – Local Photographer” George Malcomson tells the story of Southsea photographer, Stephen Cribb and shares some of his postcard designs of Rowlands Castle
20th January 2026
“A Rowlands Castle Millwright’s Story” Even though there are no mills in the village, ex Historical Society Chairman, Tim Cowin tells us about the life and work of William Wills a multi-skilled and resourceful Victorian millwright living in the village and of the local mills he would have worked on.
17th February 2026
“The Chichester Canal” Local Historian Alan Green relates the story of this short-lived but interesting canal, running from Chichester to Portsmouth and its strategic link to the river Arun. It was an essential part of “London’s lost route to the sea”
17th March 2026
“Mystery Talk”
21st April 2026
“Brickmaking & the Rowlands Castle Brickworks” Brian Tomkinson talks about the development and history of brickmaking in Rowlands Castle, the coming of the brickworks and its relationship with both the railway and the village.