The Conversation Room
Step into Ushaw and experience The Conversation Room – a programme of inspiring and thought-provoking sessions designed to spark curiosity, invite reflection, and ignite meaningful discussion.
Bringing together voices from a wide range of fields, these gatherings explore architecture, history, religion, wellbeing, and more – all within the beautifully atmospheric setting of the Francis Thompson Room at Ushaw.
Each session is hosted by a guest contributor and encourages open minds and thoughtful exchange.
Confirmed talks take place at 6:30pm on the following dates:
4 June – Thomas Aquinas and the Corpus Christi Liturgie
As Ushaw prepares to host this year’s Procession with the Blessed Sacrament, and on the traditional date for the Solemnity of Corpus Christi, Andy Doyle of Lay Dominicans North East will guide us through the 800 year history and the personalities involved in the feast. In particular, we will be brought into conversation with St Thomas Aquinas, the great 13th century Dominican philosopher, theologian and poet.
17 June – Meet the Artists
Tamsin Loxley and Mohammad Barrangi will be the next artists in residence at Ushaw Historic House, Chapels and Gardens in 2026 selected from the Woolwich Contemporary Print Fair (now the Imprint Fair). During their residency at Ushaw they will give a talk about their work exploring contemporary printmaking, storytelling, memory, landscape, and the relationship between art and place.
24 June – Alfie Joey
Alfie Joey (much loved ‘BBC presenter’ and ‘Britain’s Got Talent’ impressionist) is a Swiss Army Knife of unique talents and skills that will enhance ANY conference or event. He is a genuine polymath who has a background like no other broadcaster, keynote speaker or event MC. Former religious brother & trainee priest (he studied at Ushaw for 5 years) , almost 15 years a BBC presenter, sitcom/soap actor, Harrods toy demonstrator and push bike courier. A gallery artist and children’s illustrator. He’s also been on Britain’s Got Talent. Alfie Joey cleverly weaves these eclectic experiences from his past and present life into his original, uplifting appearances. Alfie is one of the very top event and conference hosts in the North East and gives key note speeches on Communication around the world.
5 August – St Hild: The Beacon in the Bay – and Women in the Early Northumbrian Church
This engaging installment by Professor Michelle Brown will explore the remarkable life and legacy of Hild of Whitby, known as St Hild, whose leadership at Whitby helped shape the spiritual and intellectual landscape of early medieval Northumbria. Through her story, we will uncover the vital role played by women in the early Northumbrian Church, examining faith, scholarship, and authority in a formative period of English Christianity.
12 August – The Conversation Room – Life at Ushaw: A Student’s Story (1961–71)
Step inside Ushaw Historic House for a fascinating glimpse into student life during a time of change. Brendan Hodgson reflects on his ten years at Ushaw (1961–71), sharing personal memories of study, community, and daily life, from the classroom to the playing fields and beyond. Informal, insightful, and full of character, this Conversation Room event warmly welcomes your questions and reflections.
7 October – For the Love of Trees
A celebration of the trees at Ushaw and across County Durham, exploring myth, folklore, natural history, and the many special wooded places which enrich our county’s landscapes.
Pay as you wish for the talks, pre-book your place below.
