The Saxons set to invade Tamworth Castle Grounds this September for fun historical event

A group of people dressed up in Saxon attire holding a shield and a sword

The Saxons are set to take over the Castle Grounds this September with a packed weekend of themed activities taking place for all ages to enjoy. 

The event, scheduled for the weekend of September 18 and 19, will allow visitors to travel back in time and see what life was like as a Saxon centuries ago; think fires, battle and armour, pottery, heraldry, myths, legends, stories and archery.

Tamworth, during the Saxon times, was the capital of the Kingdom of Mercia. And the town’s rich history will be celebrated through various fun workshops – from embroidery to coin making, to demonstrations of Saxon burial rites and many spectacular battle re-enactments.

Cllr Robert Pritchard, Deputy Leader of Tamworth Borough Council, said: “We’re really looking forward to this event as it’s a fantastic experience for everyone, old and young, to appreciate our modern life as well as learn and understand about our past too and how people lived their lives then.

“These events are extremely popular in Tamworth as it gives people the chance to put themselves in the shoes of people that lived centuries ago, and the events aren’t only educational but they’re filled with loads of fun activities and it makes for a great day out, too.

“It’s also an opportunity to visit Tamworth Castle and take in the history and traditions inside these walls as well as take pictures of the site. It’s an incredible structure which is definitely worth a visit.”

Families are invited to take part and join in with the living history. Come and see how people lived in Tamworth during Anglo-Saxon times by trying your hand in exciting activities such as Saxon and Viking games, cooking, wattle & daub construction, a pottery making workshop and a purse making workshop for the children.

Expand your knowledge of Tamworth history and take your Saxon weekend experience to the next level by checking out the castle’s new Battle & Tribute Exhibition.

Supported by Lottery players through the National Lottery Heritage Fund, the newly opened exhibition showcases incredible pieces from the Staffordshire Hoard and provides a fascinating exploration of the town’s Saxon history.

The £768,000 exhibition also features a mead hall, an immersive combat film experience, a touch-table strategy game – giving you the ultimate experience to make you an expert on the Saxons.

In addition to the Saxon weekender, Tamworth has a plethora of events taking place in the town over the summer. Visit https://www.tamworthartsandevents.co.uk/whats-on to see the full line-up of entertainment – including the We Love Tamworth festival and Music at the Bandstand concerts.

The Castle Grounds is open all year round, with the Saxon weekend event running from 10am-5pm on both days.