Fun for all the family at this year’s medieval festival

The Bosworth Medieval Festival promises to be bigger and better than ever this year with plenty of fun and excitement on offer for all the family.

Organisers have pulled out all the stops to ensure the event which takes place on Saturday, 17 and Sunday, 18 August at Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre and Country Park, is the highlight of the calendar. 

New additions to this year's programme includes, period falconry displays, medieval cooking demonstrations and food tasting, a roving court jester, the King’s executioner and a medieval puppet show. Re-enactors from the Wars of the Roses Federation will be demonstrating how medieval knights were armed and how they put on their armour.

Young visitors also have the opportunity to learn how to be a knight by joining in with the free Knight School. Plus, trainee knights and their families can try out their skills in the main arena, where battlefield guides will lead a DIY Battle of Bosworth. There will also be re-enactor-led workshops giving would-be Yorkists and Lancastrians the opportunity to learn to fight using a medieval war bill.

Back by popular demand is the children’s fancy dress competition and young visitors are invited to come along in their medieval finery, armour or anything with a medieval theme. Plus the whole family have the chance to learn some medieval dancing from musicians Myal and Peg.  

Cllr Richard Blunt, Leicestershire County Council's Cabinet member for Heritage, Leisure and Arts, said:

Bosworth Medieval Festival is a real family-friendly event, with lots of attractions and activities to suit visitors of all ages. It is always one of the highlights of the summer and this year, there is even more for everyone to enjoy. I would strongly encourage people to join us on Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 August for a really fun and entertaining medieval experience. 

Person:Cllr Richard Blunt, cabinet member for heritage, leisure and arts

As well as two battle re-enactments each day including a 20-minute re-creation of the Battle of Bosworth on both afternoons featuring hundreds of re-enactors, there are large living history encampments to explore, jousting, archery, cannon fire demonstrations, guided tours, author talks, a medieval craft market, free entry to the award-winning exhibition and free car parking. 

A range of food stalls offering something to suit every palate and the 1485 Tithe Barn restaurant will also be open for lunches, teas and light refreshments throughout the weekend. 

Tickets are valid for the whole weekend meaning visitors can attend the Bosworth Medieval Festival on either or both days at no extra cost and all events during the two days (except talks in the Heritage Room and have-a-go archery) are free of charge.

Bosworth Medieval Festival takes place on Saturday August 17 and Sunday August 18 from 10am to 5.30pm on both days. 

Tickets can be booked online at www.bosworthbattlefield.org.uk orOpens another website in new window  by calling 01455 290429 between 10am and 5pm. They can also be bought in person from Bosworth Battlefield with no booking fees. Tickets will also be available on the gate on both days of the festival. Family tickets and special group rates are also available.