Oak Apple Day 2023

Bank Holiday Monday 29 May, 10am – 5pm | The Commandery

Step back in time to 1660 and celebrate the restoration of the crown on Bank Holiday Monday in a fantastic day bringing history to life in Worcester.

Oak Apple Day marks the historic moment when King Charles II returned to the throne following the English Civil War.

Where better to commemorate this historic moment than at The Commandery, the Royalist Headquarters in the final battle of the Civil War?

Delve into an exciting day of living history for all the family – there’ll be:

• Fantastic reenactors to encounter as you make your way around The Commandery
• Living history camps to explore
• Musket firing in the gardens at 11.15 – 11.45am and 2.15 – 2.45pm
• Pike and cannon drills for children (and grown-ups!) to get hands-on with at 10.30 – 11am and 1.30 – 2pm
• History talks about Oak Apple Day and the English Civil War:
  • Talks at The Commandery (20min): 12 – 12.20 and 3 – 3.20pm
  • Walk and talks up to Fort Royal Hill (45min): 12.30 – 1.15 and 3.30 – 4.15pm
• Wonderful refreshments available at Commandery Coffee

Usual admission to The Commandery applies. No booking needed, last entry at 4pm. Just turn up and get stuck in!

Even better – if you’re a season or Worcester Residents’ ticket holder, you can enjoy the day with free admission.

What is Oak Apple Day? 

The Commandery is one of the only places in the UK to still celebrate Oak Apple Day, also known as Restoration Day.

This spring tradition marks the anniversary of the restoration of the monarchy in 1660 following the English Civil War – and has a special connection to the city of Worcester, the scene of the deciding battle in 1651.

Nine years after Charles II hid from Parliamentarian troops in an oak tree following the loss of his Royalist cause at the Battle of Worcester, he returned to the throne on his thirtieth birthday, 29 May 1660 – which became the annual celebration of Oak Apple Day.

Plan your visit to The Commandery and see what you can tick off the Top 10 Highlights list!