Bosworth Medieval Festival is set to return with a bang later this month following a two-year hiatus.
The two-day event – which attracts thousands of visitors, re-enactors and traders from across the UK and beyond – will take place on Saturday, August 20 and Sunday, August 21 at the Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre near Sutton Cheney.
The festival is returning after two years when it was unable to take place because of Covid-19 restrictions.
The family-friendly festival features battle re-enactments by the Wars of the Roses Federation, including the Battle of Bosworth as the finale on both days.
There will also be large living history encampments to explore, archery, cannon fire demonstrations, medieval falconry, the King’s Executioner, Knight School, a storyteller, guided tours and author talks.
Visitors can also enjoy a medieval craft market, medieval cooking demonstrations and food tasting, hands-on games and competitions for children, as well as entry to the award-winning exhibition.
The horseman and women of the renowned Medieval cavalry group Destrier will return with their mounted skill at arms and cavalry display and the fascinating Death of Richard III presentation, which was a huge hit with the crowd in 2019.
They will also play a major role in the Battle of Bosworth re-enactments, representing King Richard III and his rival Henry Tudor and their standard bearers on the battlefield.
Councillor Christine Radford, cabinet member for heritage, leisure and arts at Leicestershire County Council, said: “We’re delighted that Bosworth Medieval Festival is taking place this month.
“It is a great event with lots of activities for all the family, which attracts people from all over the UK and further afield and is always one of the highlights of the summer.
“Leicestershire has a rich and proud heritage to showcase, and the Bosworth Medieval Festival does just that, as well as commemorating the Battle of Bosworth.
“The tickets represent great value for money, as they allow visitors the chance to spend the whole weekend taking in the medieval sights, sounds and experiences. It will be a great event for residents and visitors alike.”
A wide range of food concessions will be available on site, and there is a large and welcoming real ale bar.
Tickets are valid for the whole weekend, which means that visitors can come on either or both days for no extra cost.
Once visitors are through the gates, all events during the two days (except author talks) are free of charge. Parking is free over the two days.
The Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre, the 1485 Tithe Barn Café and toilets are only open to festival ticket holders for the weekend.
Tickets are still on sale at the Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre website or by calling 01455 290429. They can also be bought on the gate during the weekend of the Bosworth Medieval Festival.
