COMPETITION

Calling all budding history writers

Where in the world do you feel most connected to the past? Be it a battlefield, a castle, a church or a city, we’re asking would-be authors to write about their favourite historical place – and inspire us to visit.

In 400 words or less, we want you to tell us why your chosen location is so special. This is no tour guide – we’re looking for creative, inspiring writing that communicates the reasons for your enthusiasm.

Your choice of place can be any location that you deem to be historic, and it can be absolutely anywhere in the world. It does not need to be a famous heritage site, nor somewhere where something momentous happened, but if it is such a place, that’s fine. Wherever you choose, you need to tell us why the place in question matters to you, and how and why it has inspired you to enjoy or study the past.

Entrants will be judged on the quality of their writing, and on the originality of their approach. Historical accuracy will be considered.

A shortlist of entries will be appraised by a panel of judges, including Alison Weir, Tracy Borman, Robyn Young and Julian Humphrys.

PRIZES

2The winner will see their entry published in the December issue of BBC History Magazine, and at HistoryExtra.com

The winner will also receive:

2Two golden tickets to BBC

History Magazine’s History Weekend in Malmesbury, including accommodation for two

people for three nights ( Thursday 15 October to Saturday 17 October inclusive) at the Old Bell Hotel in Malmesbury. Transport costs to and from Malmesbury are included (standard class if travelling by train).

2A framed print of their winning entry, presented by Alison Weir at BBC History Magazine’s History Weekend.

2Afternoon tea with popular authors Alison Weir and Tracy Borman in London to discuss the art of writing.

2£ 500-worth of history books

published by Hachette UK.

5 runners- up will receive:

2£ 50-worth of history books and will see their entries published at HistoryExtra.com

HOW TO ENTER

For details on how to enter our Inspiring History Writing competition – and full terms and conditions – please go to:

The closing date for entries is noon on Tuesday 1 September 2015

H for History is a community for fans of historical writing – find out more at HforHistory.co.uk