On Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 February, see 2000 years of history come to life at The Commandery’s Living History event, a weekend full of medieval monks, Viking warriors, World War II and much more.
This exciting annual event, organised by The Worcester Re-enactors in partnership with The Commandery, attracts thousands of visitors who can immerse themselves in a journey through history, from Vikings to Victorians. Over 200 re-enactors bring history to life through Living History encampments, military drill displays, traditional craft demonstrations and even medieval surgeons, visitors to the beautiful Commandery can enjoy a huge variety of displays in one of Worcester’s oldest and most beautiful buildings.
Visitors can uncover The Commandery’s centuries-old history as they discover its former inhabitants, from meeting medieval monks and getting recruited by Royalists to practising their Tudor dancing in the Great Hall. Indoor and outdoor entertainment throughout the weekend will include firing displays with arms through the ages, medieval and 17th century encampments, chilling historical treatments with the scary surgeon and medieval combat.
Robyn Rooney, Marketing Officer for The Commandery said: “Last year’s Living History weekend was The Commandery’s biggest and best ever, and we are very excited about the displays that will be brought to life by the marvellous Worcester Re-enactors once again.”
Brian Bullock from Worcester Re-enactors said: “The Living History in Worcester event offers the chance to celebrate history in the heart of Worcester and the historic Commandery is the perfect setting. The re-enactors all come along on a voluntary basis, are extremely enthusiastic about the period they portray and have a wealth of knowledge for visitors to tap into. Come along and join in!”
Living History in Worcester is part of the Love Worcester Heritage Festival; a week of events from 14 – 23 February celebrating Worcester’s spectacular heritage in venues across the city. There will also be Living History displays to see in Friar Street, Tudor House, Greyfriars and Cathedral Square.
The Commandery has an extraordinary history; most famously it was the Royalist Headquarters during the Battle of Worcester, the final and deciding battle of the English Civil War. Visitors can now discover Worcester’s Civil War Story through an interactive experience that take them back into a murky, conflicted 17th century Worcester where they can experience life as a soldier 300 miles from home, test your skills at battle strategy and come face-to-face with Oliver Cromwell.
Worcester Residents can buy an annual ticket for The Commandery, which includes entry to Living History and many other exciting events throughout the year for just £5.
The Love Worcester Heritage Festival runs from Wednesday 14 to Sunday 25 February. For more information please see www.visitworcestershire.org/loveworcester.
Event Listing:
Living History at The Commandery
Saturday 15th – Sunday 16th February 2020 (10am – 5pm)
Experience 2000 years of history come to life with a weekend of living history encampments, military displays, vintage vehicles and more. Organised in partnership with Worcester Re-enactors. Part of the Love Worcester Heritage Festival.
Worcester residents annual ticket £5 (please bring your council tax bill payable to Worcester City Council to qualify), Adults £7, Children £3, Children under 5 FREE, Individual annual ticket £12