THE BLOODY and brutal world of medieval England was brought to Evesham on August 1 to 3 for the Battle of Evesham Festival.
Knights on horseback and soldiers wielding axes, with the help of a worldwide comedy legend, attracted record crowds for the three-day event that marked the 760th anniversary of a vicious conflict that saw rebel baron Simon de Montfort chopped to pieces and 5,000 slain.
Billed as Europe’s largest 13th Century reenactment, the event saw a grand parade of 800 reenactors process through the centre of town on a sunny Saturday, which drew 3,000 spectators onto the streets.
There followed the annual open-air service at Abbey Park to commemorate the fallen, attended by 42 mayors and mayoresses from across the region, along with the High Sheriff of Worcester, Ian Smith and Lord-Lieutenant Beatrice Grant.
On Crown and Corporation Meadows, the crowds were entertained by two spectacular battle reenactments that recreated the clash that saw Simon, known as the godfather of Parliament, killed by the forces loyal to King Henry III.
A big hit with visitors was the arrival of special guest Sir Tony Robinson (of Blackadder and Time Team fame), who happily posed for selfies before his sell-out history talk at the presentation pavilion.
Visitors enjoyed browsing stalls at an artisan craft fair and medieval market, as well as learning about life in the 1200s at a living history camp.
Several stands from groups such as Evesham Rotary, Almonry Museum, and Vale of Evesham Civic Society contributed to the community feel.
Event director Mick Hurst, said: “It was a resounding success, with all of our speakers and performers enjoying appreciative audiences.
“The warm sunny weather brought an estimated 60,000 visitors to the festival, and our volunteer 80 red-shirted battle crew did a stunning job in keeping the whole event litter-free and running smoothly.
“They were the real stars of the Battle of Evesham 2025.”
