THE TOWN centre of Evesham is set to come alive this weekend with the sights and sounds of ages past.
An invasion of Vikings, Normans is set to take over the Market Place, All Saints Church and the grounds of St Lawrence’s Church for the Evesham Medieval Market and Living History event.
Visitors can learn how life and war changed from 1066 to 1485 by chatting to Vikings, Norman soldiers and knights of the War of the Roses, then browse over 100 artisan stalls.
Over 120 re-enactors will welcome families into medieval life, showing how skills, crafts and medieval medicine during these 400 years developed into what we are familiar with today.
Mick Hurst, Battle of Evesham founder and director, said: “Over the last five years, the Evesham Medieval Market has become a fixture on the calendar of many people in the Vale of Evesham and further afield.
“Retailers in the town centre tell me that their footfall and sales when the Medieval Market is on are by far the best weekend of the year – and with over 30,000 visitors expected this year, I hope that trend continues.”
New for this year is a free prize draw to win family tickets for some of the top visitor attractions in Worcestershire, and have-a-go sword fighting with medieval fighting instructors and soft-play swords and shields.
“The weather is forecast to be fabulous, which makes the beautiful and historic location of Evesham Abbey even better for the full-on two days of May medieval mayhem.
“We hope people come and enjoy a free day out in support of the main Battle of Evesham festival in August,” Mike added.
The event is free and runs Saturday and Sunday (May 17 and 18) from 10am to 5pm on both days.
Visitors can park for free on Crown Meadow off Abbey Road.
