The 4th Freedom Festival 2026

Following the outstanding success of our previous Freedom Festivals, we are delighted to announce the return of this flagship two-day event in March 2026.

Saturday 21st & Sunday 22nd March 2026
Vinson Centre, University of Buckingham

Since 2023, in partnership with The Freedom Association, the Margaret Thatcher Centre has hosted this inspiring weekend conference at the University of Buckingham. It is designed for individuals of all ages – including students – who share a passion for promoting the timeless ideas of freedom, democracy, and the rule of law that lay at the heart of Margaret Thatcher’s beliefs and achievements.

At last year’s Freedom Festival attendees enjoyed thought-provoking discussions from a stellar line-up of speakers and panellists, culminating in a memorable gala dinner at The Villiers Hotel featuring an inspiring keynote address.

Once again combining stimulating educational sessions with practical insights into applying Thatcherite principles today, the event – held in partnership with the University of Buckingham and aligned organisations – features a full-day conference followed by an elegant dinner, a few steps away from the hotel.

Attendees will hear from leading modern-day influencers and established entrepreneurs, gaining fresh perspectives on Margaret Thatcher’s life, values, and legacy – with a special emphasis on entrepreneurialism to inspire the next generation.

Confirmed Speakers

Our speaker line up is growing all the time! Subscribe to our mailing list or check back regularly for updates.

Political Leaders

  • The Rt Hon the Lord Frost CMG PC
    Institute of Economic Affairs
  • Andrew Griffith MP
    Shadow Secretary of State for Business
  • The Lord Hannan of Kingsclere
    The Institute for Free Trade
  • The Lord Young of Acton
    The Free Speech Union
  • Greg Smith MP
    Mid-Buckinghamshire
  • Paul Bristow
    Mayor of Cambridgeshire & Peterborough

Media & Commentators

  • Allison Pearson
    The Daily Telegraph
  • Nana Akua
    GB News
  • Tom Harwood
    GB News
  • Emma Trimble
    Writer & Broadcaster
  • Dan Wootton
    Broadcaster & Journalist
  • Gawain Towler
    Reform UK

Academics & Think Tanks

  • Professor Matt Goodwin
    University of Buckingham
  • Professor Eric Kaufmann
    University of Buckingham
  • Mark Littlewood
    Popular Conservatism
  • Reem Ibrahim
    Institute of Economic Affairs
  • Jonathan Brown
    Centre for a Better Britain
  • James Price
    Adam Smith Institute
  • Dr Ted Bromund
    New Lines Institute
  • Preston Byrne
    Byrne & Storm PC
  • Peter Just
    Author & Historian

Ticket Options

Please note that tickets are likely to sell out quickly and preference is given to previous attendees and supporters.

FULL PASS

Two-Day Full Festival Pass

Includes 2-day conference pass, refreshments, Saturday sandwich lunch, pre-dinner drinks reception & three-course gala dinner.

(No accommodation included)

£95
Students: £25
CONFERENCE ONLY

Two-Day Conference Pass

Conference access only, including tea/coffee upon arrival, mid-morning and mid-afternoon refreshments, and Saturday sandwich lunch.

(No drinks reception, dinner or accommodation)

£35
Students: £15

Accommodation

We have a limited number of rooms available, providing either 1 or 2 nights’ stay at The Villiers Hotel.

Please contact Gemma Baldock directly for more information and to book.

Alternative Accommodation Nearby

  • The White Hart Hotel – 8 minutes’ walk from the Vinson Centre
  • The Travelodge Hotel – 5 minutes’ drive from the Vinson Centre
  • The Premier Inn – 5 minutes’ drive from the Vinson Centre

Getting to Buckingham

Buckingham is 50 miles from London and 20 miles from Oxford.
It is easily accessible by road and rail.

Travel subsidies available upon application for students in full-time education.

Join us 21–22 March 2026

Celebrate and defend the ideas that shaped a nation.

GET YOUR TICKETS NOW

For further details, any special needs, or enquiries:
[email protected]