Tewkesbury Medieval Festival
- Battle re-enactment and traditional market stalls
- Free entry! - However there is a £10 per car (cash only), per day parking charge.
- Once the main site closes there are further events in the town in the evening.
- Photos here - https://www.tewkesburymedievalfestival.co.uk/gallery
- Check back here nearer the time for more details about our visit
From their website - https://www.tewkesburymedievalfestival.co.uk/
... largest free medieval gathering of its kind in Europe, attracting re-enactors, traders, entertainers, and visitors from all over the world... spectacular re-enactment of the Battle of Tewkesbury on part of the site of the original battle of 1471.
Many of the participants including wives and children live as a medieval army in authentic encampments for the whole weekend. It also features a wide range of period entertainment, including music, dance and drama... may include .. even the odd dragon keeper.
Our busy and colourful medieval market has everything from a suit of armour or a fabulous gown, to pot of herbs or bag of sweets on sale. There are also associated events in the town, which is decorated with authentic medieval banners for the festival period. Food and drink (including ale specially brewed for the occasion,) are widely available
The main site is just 5 minutes walk from the town centre. ... All car parks are closed and locked at 6.30pm. By that time town centre car parks are free. ...The nearest railway station is Ashchurch for Tewkesbury. Buses are available to take you from the railway station to Tewkesbury town centre.
... We run our own campsite, 5 minutes away from the main festival site, on the main Cheltenham-Tewkesbury bus route. It opens from Friday afternoon until Sunday afternoon. A relaxed campsite with good loos and hot showers included.
Can I fight in the battle? No, only those members of signed up re-enactors’ households can join the battle. if you want to see some beheadings of the traitors then head to the abbey on Saturday evening, the time will be posted sooner to the event date
How do I get involved in re-enactment? As you walk around the Living History camps, you will see many different groups re-enacting many different things. Please speak to the re-enactors who will be able to advise you how to get involved.
Is the battle suitable for everyone? Please note, if you are bringing someone on the Autistic Spectrum, someone with noise sensitivity, or your dog, there will be loud bangs during the re-enactment each afternoon. The battle lasts roughly an hour (plus waiting time beforehand), so please bear this in mind if you have young children.
What time does the battle start? The battle starts at 4pm on Saturday and 3pm on Sunday, lasting roughly an hour. We recommend you get there early to be sure of a good view.