Nantwich Holly Holy Day, Cheshire
2024-01-27 10:00 - 16:00 UTC | Nantwich, Cheshire
The longest standing fixture in the societies calendar, once more members from across the country will join to support the towns Holy Holly Day celebrations . This year marks the 380th anniversary of the end of the royalist siege which saw the people of Nantwich celebrate with holly sprigs in their hats – hence Holly Holy Day. Join us from 10am for a smashing historical day out in Nantwich with music, historical plays, pike and musket displays, horse parade and the all important ‘Battle on Mill Island’ at 2pm.
The event marks the important society tradition of Presenting “The Rose Bowl”. This inter society competition see the troops inspected and regiments judged for the honour of holding the trophy for the season ahead as the best the in the Knot
More details at https://www.battleofnantwich.org/

The Trial of Charles I
2024-02-10 - 2024-02-11 | Huntington Town Hall, Huntington Town Hall, Market Hill, Huntingdon, PE29 3PJ
Saturday 10th
1pm SOLD OUT
3.30pm SOLD OUT
6pm
and 11th February:
10am
12.30pm
3pm
Admission: £12 Adults, £10 Students/Museum Members
Location: Huntington Town Hall
In January 1649 – 375 years ago this year – a King was put on trial in London, accused of treason against his own people, an event which was radical for its time and has been controversial ever since.
The Cromwell Museum is staging dramatised performances recreating the tumultuous events of Charles I’s trial in January 1649, held in the atmospheric surroundings of one of the historic courtrooms in Huntingdon Town Hall.
Working with members of the Sealed Knot historical re-enactment society, using original trial records from the Parliamentary Archives, the Museum has produced an edited and dramatised version of the trial, which will be recreated with all the key figures including King Charles I and Oliver Cromwell being played by amateur actors. The script has been expanded and updated for 2024 to include much of the latest historical thinking.
The trial is an immersive experience – so whilst there is a narrator who will introduce and interject into the performance, there will be members of the cast interspersed with the audience, who will heckle the trial and cause some disturbance, as the audience at the real trial did. YOU will be part of that audience, as if you were there in 1649.
These events when staged by the Museum are widely acclaimed and very popular, so book early to avoid disappointment!

Coleford Memorial, Gloucestershire
2024-02-24 11:00 - 13:30 UTC | Worcestershire
Join members from the Sealed Knot for the annual commemoration of the 1643 Battle of Coleford.
A small parade will leave Mushet Walk at approximately 11:20am and then assemble in the town centre at the commemorative plague (lower level of the island at the Clock Tower) for a short service.

Castle Bromwich Hall Gardens
2024-03-30 08:00 - 2024-03-31 17:00 UTC | Castle Bromwich, Birmingham, Chester Road, Castle Bromwich, Birmingham, B36 9BT, United Kingdom
Step back 350 years and experience life on the road for soldiers and their families.
Over the Easter weekend, Saturday 30th and Sunday 31st March, Colonel John Pickering and his Regiment of Foote take up residence in Castle Bromwich Hall Gardens.
No need to book. All tickets and donations go to support the long-term work for the Trust preserving and sharing the 18th century Gardens and Parkland.
More details can be found at https://www.castlebromwichhallgardens.org.uk/calendar/living-history-colonel-pickerings-regiment-of-foote/2024-03-30/

A Castle at War; Life in a 17th century garrison
2024-03-30 10:30 - 2024-03-31 16:30, 2024-08-10 10:00 - 2024-08-11 17:00 UTC | Pembroke Castle, Westgate Hill, Pembroke, Pembrokeshire, SA71 4LA, Pembroke Castle, Westgate Hill, Pembroke,, Pembrokeshire, SA71 4LA, United Kingdom
A Castle at War; Life in a 17th century garrison

Tickets for entry are available from the ticketing kiosk at castle entrance. No extra fee for the event. More details and prices can be found at www.pembrokecastle.co.uk.
Discover the dramatic story of the Civil War garrison that changed sides and endured a six week siege. Take part in an authentic pike drill, dress in period costume and armour or try your hand at writing with a quill pen. Find out from our cooks exactly what is bubbling away in that cauldron whilst you discover what life in the 17th century was like.

Ramsey Heritage Day
2024-04-07 11:00 - 16:00 UTC | Ramsey Abbey Gatehouse, Abbey School, PE26 1DH, Ramsey Abbey Gatehouse, Abbey School,, PE26 1DH, United Kingdom
Ramsey Heritage Day
Troops from Colonel John Pickerings Regiment and members of the Sealed Knot come to Ramsey to commemorate the Abbey’s rich past and help you relive history.
Cromwell, the English civil war commander who rose through the ranks from MP and would go on to be known as Lord Protector, wasn’t the only Oliver in the family. His uncle Sir Oliver Cromwell had moved to Ramsey Abbey having sold Hinchingbrooke House to the Montague Family, to settle debts – mostly caused by ‘hosting’ King James the first several times.
Oliver Cromwell (the one we’re used to hearing about) came to visit his uncle, a supporter of the King, and threatened to burn down the Abbey with him in it if a substantial amount of money and valuables were not handed over to him for the Parliamentary Cause.

Join us and find out if the deal was done or if the Abbey suffered during these fractious times where brother fought brother, nephew threatened uncle….

Securing The Shire, May Day weekend Major Event - Much Marcle
2024-05-05 10:00 - 2024-05-06 16:00 UTC | Rye Meadows, Much Marcle HR8 2LX, Rye Meadows, Much Marcle, HR8 2LX, United Kingdom
Securing The Shire, May Day weekend Major Event

About this event
A FULL DAY OF INTERACTIVE HISTORY FOR ALL THE FAMILY.
Join the Sealed Knot as we explore what it was like to live, and fight, in Herefordshire in the English Civil War.
Spend the day exploring our Living History encampment and taking part in our activities and arena displays including the grand battle finale.
Witness the spectacle of a battlefield complete with hundreds of infantry, artillery and cavalry troops as they fight to secure safe passage through this strategic county.

See displays of Civil War weapons and tactics.
Explore civilian life in our Living History camp.
Take part in our ‘have a go’ activities and drill sessions.
Complete our kids activity sheets and treasure hunts.
Watch a parade of 17th Century fashion.
Witness the spectacle of our main battle, the grand finale of each day.

For all the days details and to purchase your tickets in advance click here
https://buytickets.at/thesealedknotltd/1209683

The Battle of Marston Moor – A 380th Commemoration
2024-05-26 11:00 - 2024-05-27 16:00 UTC | Scampston Hall, Malton YO17 8NG, Scampston Hall, Malton, YO17 8NG, United Kingdom
The Battle of Marston Moor – A 380th Commemoration

380 years on we relive history as we mark the dramatic events of the Battle of Marston Moor!
Join The Sealed Knot in an interactive family day out and explore how the royalist cause in the North was lost in the largest battle of the brutal English Civil War.
The spectacular finale sees hundreds of infantry, artillery and cavalry troops recreate the dramatic battle that saw the demise of an entire regiment and the rise of Oliver Cromwell!
Step back in time as the bustle of our living history camp plays out around you. Learn more of England’s past and discover what life was like in the 17th century. With kids’ treasure trails, quiz sheets and weapon demonstrations against the back drop of Scampston’s stunning country estate, let history come alive for you this bank holiday weekend.
For Tickets to avoid the queue please go to:
https://buytickets.at/thesealedknotltd/1254697
Tickets will be available at the gate on the day also
Dogs welcome on a lead, though be aware there will be the noise of canon and musket fire.

Windsor Castle History Weekends- Royalist and Rebels
2024-06-29 10:00 - 2024-06-30 17:15 UTC | Windsor Castle, Windsor, Berkshire, SL4 1NJ, Windsor Castle, Windsor, Berkshire, SL4 1NJ
Windsor Castle History Weekends- Royalist and Rebels

Join members of The Sealed Knot as the castle is once more under parliament garrison. Relive history at this iconic location and explore the castle’s vivid history.
Learn about Prince Rupert’s beleaguered assault, the founding of the New Model Army and hear the stories of imprisoned Royalists. Watch thrilling pikeman drills by grizzled soldiers of dashing Prince Rupert’s army.
With interactive games and activities, Living History encampments to explore and performance displays throughout the day, the story of Windsor Castle in the 17th century comes to life this June.
To enjoy these activities, please select the free add-on when booking your admission ticket to Windsor Castle. For more details please visit the Royal Collection Trust events page here: RCT Whats on – History Weekends.

The Battle of Cheriton - History through the Ages,
2024-07-27 10:30 - 2024-07-28 16:30 UTC | Scrubs Farm, Alresford, Hampshire, SO24 0HR, Scrubs Farm, Dark Lane,, Bishops Sutton, Alresford, Hampshire,, SO24 0HR
The Battle of Cheriton, History through the Ages
Steep yourself in history with a day out for the whole family this summer. Our Cheriton multi-period event will see re-enactors from the Sealed Knot, the Medieval Knights Society, the Napoleonic Society and the American Civil War Society. A chance to immerse yourself in historic displays from the midst of middle age sword fights to the cannons and rifles of the American Civil War – what better way to start the summer break?

The weekend will see us commemorate the 380th anniversary of the Battle of Cheriton and will mark the grand battle’s finale to the day. Set against the historic backdrop of the original battlefield, this event promises an exhilarating experience for history enthusiasts and families alike.

In 1644, the Battle of Cheriton unfolded amidst the English Civil War, a pivotal conflict that shaped the nation as it is today. Fought between the Royalist forces, led by Lord Hopton, and the Parliamentarian army, under Sir William Waller, this encounter marked a significant turning point in the war’s narrative. With its strategic location near Winchester, Cheriton became the stage for a fierce confrontation, ultimately resulting in a decisive victory for the Parliamentarians.

For all the event details, timetables and to get your advanced discounted tickets today visit https://buytickets.at/thesealedknotltd/1308742

National Trust Lyveden, Northants
2024-08-03 10:00 - 2024-08-04 16:00 (Europe/London) | Lyveden, Harley Way, Harley Way, Lyveden,
Join Lord John Robartes Regiment of Foote from 10am each day at this intriguing Elizabethan lodge and moated garden.
The National Trust property is now known simply as Lyveden and today includes the renovated Manor House. It is grade one listed and was owned by the Tresham family until 1649 when it was sequestered during the Civil War, because of continued Catholic links. Sometimes referred to as ‘Lyveden Old Bield’, the house is in fact newer than the ‘New Bield’. This refers to the garden lodge at the top of the hill and is a remarkable survivor of the Elizabethan age. Begun by Sir Thomas Tresham to symbolise his Catholic faith, Lyveden lodge remains incomplete and virtually unaltered since work stopped on his death in 1605
Visitors are able to discover the mysterious garden lodge and explore the Elizabethan Garden with spiral mounts, terracing and canals. Moreover, wander through the new orchard, containing many old varieties of apples and pears, or explore the Lyveden Way, a circular path through beautiful meadows, woodland and villages.
Lord John Robartes Regiment of Foote will have their living history camp in the rear paddock behind the House. With arena displays and marches from the lodge the history of your visit to Lyveden will be brought to life. This is your chance to experience first-hand, the thrill and excitement of regimental musket volleys, pike drill, with drums and colours and the full panoply of the 17th Century. Soldiers and civilians will be on hand to answer your questions of life during this turbulent period of history.
For all the details and to plan your visit, please see the National Trust website https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lyveden

The Siege of Grimsthorpe
2024-08-10 10:30 - 2024-08-11 17:00 UTC | Grimsthorpe Castle Park & Gardens, Grimsthorpe, Bourne, PE10 0LY, Grimsthorpe Castle, Bourne, PE10 0LY, United Kingdom
The Siege of Grimsthorpe Castle

For one weekend Grimsthorpe Castle welcomes The Sealed Knot lead by Colonel John Pickerings Regiment as they recreate 17th century life during the English Civil War and invite you to a unique event that will show life in the period.
Meet King Charles I and his family as they visit Grimsthorpe and set up their royal household. See the soldiers that guard them but be aware that the kings safety is not to be taken for granted as the forces of Parliament and Oliver Cromwell are not far away and conflict is guaranteed as the two armies clash in the grounds of Grimsthorpe.
Watch as the armies battle it out as Grimsthorpe is besieged by the Parliamentarians with cannon, musket and cavalry – Will the King survive?
In the surrounding camps, chat with the re-enactors demonstrating the skills, crafts and roles of the everyday people from the estate as well as the families of the Royalist and Parliamentarian troops following the armies. Try the weapons and clothing and see if you have what it takes to become a solider and fight for the King or for Parliament.
Are you ready to see Grimsthorpe at war? Get up close and personal with your ancestors and dive into 17th Century life!

For tickets visit – https://grimsthorpe.co.uk/the-sealed-knot/

Cropredy Bridge, Oxfordshire
2024-08-25 - 2024-08-26 | Worcestershire
Put the date in your diary as this August Bank Holiday will see us mark the 380th anniversary of the Battle of Cropredy Bridge.
The Sealed Knot will be returning to the Banbury countryside for our summer bank holiday spectacular. An event that sees hundreds of reenactors take to the battlefield as we commemorate and explore the events of 1644 surrounding this historic English village.
There is a full day of activity to thrill and intrigue, with food traders, beer tent and living history all available to the public before, during and after the main event, which is the spectacle of the recreation of the Battle of Cropredy in 1644.
This encounter was the second major encounter of the English Civil Wars in this area and will feature Cannon, Musket, Calvary and Pike, staged by Europe’s largest re-enactment society, The Sealed Knot.
A truly immersive day out for all the family and not one to be missed!
Dates & Times
Sunday 25th August & Monday 26th August 2024
Living History and Demonstrations from 11.00am Each Day
Re-enactments commence at 12.30 Each Day with main battle starting at 2pm
Living History, Food Traders from 11.00am – 4pm Each Day
Beer Tent from 11.00am – 4pm Each Day
Ticket Prices – To purchase please go to https://buytickets.at/thesealedknotltd/1286409
£15 Per Family (2 Adults & 2 Children includes parking when booked through this site)
£6 Per Individual Adult (Includes parking when booked through this site)
£3 Concessions (OAP’S and Children under 16 years of age, includes parking when booked through this site)
Children under 5 enter free
£2 Parking charge if ticket is bought at the event and not through this site

Coleford Memorial Parade
2025-02-22 | Worcestershire

Basing House
2025-04-05 - 2025-04-06 | Basing House, Park Lane, Old Basing, Hampshire, RG24 7HF, United Kingdom
Basing House was one of the iconic sieges of the English Civil Wars. Basing was the home of the Marquis of Winchester, a supporter of King Charles I. Parliamentary forces made three attempts to take Basing House, with first two sieges being broken before it fell at the third attempt.
This experience on the 5th and 6th April at Basing House is presented by Col Stephen Hawkins Regiment.
It’s late summer of 1644, following the ill-fated attack on Odiham the Basing garrison have been pursued by Colonel Richard Norton back to Basing House. The garrison now reduced to 175 men with little food and ammunition dangerously low. Norton’s men, mortars and heavy artillery are once again besieging Basing House. With powerful Parliamentary garrisons in Abingdon, Reading and Newbury and the Kings army in the west, Basing was unlikely to be rescued.
The only hope is Colonel Gage’s relief column sent from Oxford which will have to covertly make the journey to Basing and defeat Norton’s troops to resupply the Garrison so enabling them to hold out until rescue by the Kings armies.
Set against the evocative backdrop of the ruins of the House, our living history camp (open 11:00 am Saturday and Sunday) provides an ‘up-close’ experience of aspects of military and civilian life during this turbulent period in our nation’s history.
On Saturday and Sunday at around 2.30 pm experience the sight and sound of the battle to take Basing House!
Book tickets to see this event – Basing House

Castle Bromwich
2025-04-19 - 2025-04-20 | Worcestershire

Wiltshire at War
2025-05-04 - 2025-05-05 | Charlton Park, Malmesbury, Wiltshire, SN16 9LL
An English Civil War conflict to secure Malmesbury
WILTSHIRE AT WAR – an ECW conflict to secure Malmesbury.
Book your tickets now
A FULL DAY OF INTERACTIVE HISTORY FOR ALL THE FAMILY 4th & 5th OF MAY.
Join The Sealed Knot as we explore what it was like to live, and fight during the English Civil War.
Spend the day exploring our Living history encampment and taking part in our activities and arena displays including the grand battle finale.
Witness the spectacle of a battlefield complete with hundreds of infantry, artillery and cavalry troops as they battle their way to secure this strategic county.
Location: Charlton Park, Wiltshire, Public entrance: SN16 9LL
Event Opening Times.
11am – 4pm Sunday 4th and Monday 5th of May 2025
Performance Times
Our arena and timetabled displays are all included in your ticket price.
An opportunity to discover how the troops of a 17th century army worked as well as get involved and discover if you’ve got what it takes! Learn, see and experience the sights and sounds of the English civil war as we bring history to life. Main battle starts at 2pm. For more information regarding our performance timings, please see out website: www.thesealedknot.org.uk.
All Day Activities
Our Living History camp and activities tent will be open from 11am for you to explore alongside the performance displays. Relive History and immerse yourself in the 17th century discovering facts of the past and what it meant for the people of England as civil war raged around them.

See displays of English Civil War weapons and tactics.
Explore Civilian life in our Living History camp.
Take part in our ‘have a go’ activities.
Complete our kids activity sheets and treasure hunts.
Watch a display of drums and colours.
Witness the spectacle of our main battle.

Ticket Prices
£20 Per Family (2 Adults & 3 Children)
£10 Per Individual Adult
£5 Concessions (OAP’S and Children under 16 years of age)
Carers and Children under 5 enter free.
Book your tickets now
Please Note: Due to the nature of our displays, loud noises from canon and musket are a common occurrence, please bear that in mind when looking to bring small children and dogs.
About the organiser
The Sealed Knot is the oldest re-enactment society in the UK, a registered educational charity, and the single biggest re-enactment society in Europe. The Sealed Knot brings history to life by staging events throughout the country all year round, offering a chance to experience at first hand the horrors of a nation at war with itself, as well as providing a glimpse of everyday life in the 17th century.

Battle of Naseby
2025-05-25 - 2025-05-26 | Lamport Hall, Lamport, Northhammpton, NN6 9HD
THE BATTLE OF NASEBY – The decisive battle of the English Civil War
Book your tickets now
A FULL DAY OF INTERACTIVE HISTORY FOR ALL THE FAMILY 25th & 26th OF MAY.
Join The Sealed Knot as we explore what it was like to live, and fight during the English Civil War.
Spend the day exploring our Living history encampment and taking part in our activities and arena displays including the grand battle finale.
Witness the spectacle of a battlefield complete with hundreds of infantry, artillery and cavalry troops.
Location: Lamport Hall, Northamptonshire, NN6 9HD
Event Opening Times.
11am – 4pm Sunday 25th and Monday 26th of May 2025 (main battle 2.00pm)
Performance Times
Our arena and timetabled displays are all included in your ticket price.
An opportunity to discover how the troops of a 17th century army worked as well as get involved and discover if you’ve got what it takes! Learn, see and experience the sights and sounds of the English civil war as we bring history to life. Check out our website for more information regarding performance timings: www.thesealedknot.org.uk.
All Day Activities
A Full Day of Interactive History For All The Family
Join the Sealed Knot as we explore what it was like to live, and fight, in Northamptonshire in the 17th Century. Explore our Living history encampment and take part in our activities. Witness the spectacle of a 17th century battlefield brought to life, complete with infantry, artillery and cavalry troops as we re-create this pivotal moment of the English Civil War.

See displays of ECW Weapons and Tactics.
Explore Civilian life in our Living History camp.
Take part in our ‘have a go’ activities.
Complete our kids activity sheets and treasure hunts.
Meet our Soldiers face to face.
Witness the spectacle of our main battle.

Ticket Prices
£20 Per Family (2 Adults & 3 Children)
£10 Per Individual Adult
£5 Concessions (OAP’S and Children under 16 years of age)
Carers and Children under 5 enter free.
Book your tickets now
Please Note: Due to the nature of our displays, loud noises from canon and musket are a common occurrence, please bear that in mind when looking to bring small children and dogs.
About the organiser
The Sealed Knot is the oldest re-enactment society in the UK, a registered educational charity, and the single biggest re-enactment society in Europe. The Sealed Knot brings history to life by staging events throughout the country all year round, offering a chance to experience at first hand the horrors of a nation at war with itself, as well as providing a glimpse of everyday life in the 17th century.

Sherfield
2025-06-14 - 2025-06-15 | Worcestershire

Marston Moor
2025-06-28 - 2025-06-29 | Worcestershire
The Sealed Knot at Long Marston
28th and 29th June 2025
Get tickets
Experience a soldier’s life at the time of the English Civil Wars
Living History encampment from 10:30 am
Children’s drill. Skirmishes. Sights, sounds and smells!
The Sealed Knot commemorates our history in a number of ways. We perform re-enactments in local communities based around battles, skirmishes and sieges of the English Civil Wars. The Sealed Knot brings history to life, offering a chance to experience first-hand the horrors of a nation at war with itself, as well as providing a glimpse of everyday life in those days. Take a more hands-on approach to history by seeing us in costume, being able to ask us questions and handle some of our weapons and equipment. Learn about cookery, clothes, education and seventeenth century politics alongside strategies and tactics.
A FULL DAY OF INTERACTIVE HISTORY FOR ALL THE FAMILY
Join The Sealed Knot as we explore what it was like to live, and fight during the English Civil War.
Spend the day exploring our Living history encampment and taking part in our activities and arena displays.
Our arena and timetabled displays are all included in your ticket price. An opportunity to discover how the troops of a 17th century army worked and discover if you’ve got what it takes!
Saturday 28th June
10:30: Living history opens. Cannon fires.
10:45: Drill display and then meet the troops
11:30: First skirmish ~ Fight for the rabbit warren!
12:00: Children’s pike and musket drill. For big and small children alike.
12:30 to 13:30: Even soldiers have to eat their rations!
13:45: Second skirmish ~ Newcastle’s infantry counter attacks!
14:30: Children’s pike and musket drill. For big and small children alike.
15:15: Third skirmish ~ The last stand!
15:45: Meet the Troops
16:30: Close
Saturday Evening
Tug of war competition.
Cannon Ball Throw.
Live music & street food until late
Sunday 29th June
10:30: March to the Marston Moor Monument. There will be a short service, wreath
laying and then march back to Long Marston. The Living History camp will still be
open during this time for you to interact with our members and for the children’s
activities.
12:00 to 13: 00: Even soldiers have to eat their rations!
13:00: Drill display and then meet the troops
13:45: Children’s pike and musket drill. For big and small children alike.
14:30: Talk by Mark Turnbull (Author) in the LMVH
15:15: Final skirmish ~ Whitecoats defiant!
16:00: Meet the Troops
16:30: Close
Get tickets
There will be food vendors and a licensed bar through the day. The Village Hall Bar will be open until 8pm.
Please Note: Due to the nature of our displays, loud noises from canon and musket are a common occurrence, please bear that in mind when looking to bring small children and dogs.

Crowland Abbey
2025-06-28 12:30 - 2025-06-29 16:30 (Europe/London) | Crowland Abbey, 46 East Street, Crowland, Peterborough, PE6 0EN, United Kingdom
This is probably the funniest story of the English Civil War.

Picture this…an East Anglian village uses the war as an excuse to kidnap the neighbouring village’s vicar. The neighbouring village militia turn up quite annoyed at this imposition to retrieve their vicar. Battle ensues ineffectually. Nobody dies except some poor fool who falls off the Abbey roof. The New Model Army arrive as the peace keepers and everyone ends up in one of the local hostelries

The village love us. They come out to watch us assemble at the famous Trinity Bridge and follow the march. The crowds are massive and the battle the most fun you’ll have in a long time and one of the few where you get to play with scaling ladders and throwing things at each other whilst trying to attack a graveyard.

Flat campsite, brilliant battles, good pubs, epic band. If you’re still looking for something to do at the end of June then this is it.

Huntingdon History Fest
2025-07-05 - 2025-07-06 | Worcestershire

Culcheth , Warrington
2025-07-12 - 2025-07-13 | Culcheth, Warrington Road, Glazebury, Warrington, WA3 5LA, United Kingdom
The Sealed Knot returns to Culcheth – bigger and better than before!
Following the fantastic response to our first event in 2024, the Earl of Manchester’s Regiment of Foote once again will bring the sights, sounds and smells of the English Civil Wars to this close knit community in the rolling fields of Cheshire.
Be transported back in time with our tented encampment, watch displays of pike, musket and cannon, see demonstrations of traditional skills, and discover what life was like in the age of Roundheads and Cavaliers!
Located right next to The Raven Inn on Warrington Road – and within easy reaching distance of Warrington, Leigh, Newton-le-Willows St Helens, and Manchester – don’t miss discovering more about the history under your feet in a place where Parliamentarians and Royalists once clashed in 1651!
Opening hours: 10am-4pm each day
More details to be announced…
The history:
In September 1651, two thousand defeated Scots from the Battle of Worcester were escaping north, harassed and picked-off along the way. Five hundred Scots crossed the River Mersey at Hollin Ferry and, following the track just west of the Glaze Brook, traversed the next obstacle – Jibcroft Brook, five miles north at The Raven Inn. The Scots were now deep in enemy territory. Alerted to the troop movements, Lord John Holcroft and his men ambushed them from land adjacent to The Raven. Given the difference in troop numbers, the ambush was probably little more than musket and small cannon fire. In 1905 a ‘Minion’ canon ball was found at nearby Moss House Farm (which must have been fired at point blank range) and in 2019 several musket balls were detected opposite the Raven by detectorist Sean Holcroft. The 3” diameter ball is on display in Warrington Museum.
One historical character associated with the site is Captain Thomas Blood who married one of the Holcroft daughters. Because the Raven Inn was later described in 1770 as ‘ancient’, it is more than likely that John Holcroft and Thomas Blood frequented The Raven for their ale. But that wasn’t the end of Blood’s story: he remained a military man, rising to the rank of Colonel and later hatched ‘a dashing plan’ to steal the Crown Jewels in 1671, which ended in abject failure. Surprisingly, he was not hanged for his crime but gained a good deal of notoriety.

Hartlebury Castle
2025-07-26 - 2025-07-27 | Worcestershire
Step into Civil War history with The Sealed Knot!
Buy your tickets here!
The Sealed Knot are back at the Castle for 2025 – this year with a 17th century battlefield brought to life!
On Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th July from 11am to 4pm, bring along the whole family to experience the past with the largest re-enactment society in Europe.
Witness the spectacle of a Civil War battlefield with a replica bastion built to scale at the feature event: The Battle of Hartlebury! Complete with infantry, artillery and cavalry troops, the Castle attempts to hold out for the King one final time.
Other highlights to immerse yourself in include:

Meet wonderful 17th century reenactors as the Castle is taken over by soldiers and transformed into a Royalist garrison (as it really was during the Civil War)! Who do you support – the King or Parliament?
Experience civilian life as the Carriage Circle becomes a living history camp – find out what it was really like to live and fight in Worcestershire during the time.
Enjoy living history displays inside the Castle with the Chapel, Saloon and Great Hall to explore – look out for Bishop Prideaux!
See fascinating displays of period weapons and tactics.
Get into character at the dress-up station.
Complete fun children’s activity sheets and treasure hunts.
See a parade of 17th century fashion.
Watch amazing demonstrations and have a go at being a pike soldier!
See firing canons!
And more to be announced…

This event is supported by Wychavon District Council.

Tickets
Adult: £9
Child: £4.50
Under 5: Free
Carer: Free (1 Carer ticket per paid ticket – please contact us if you require more)
Guardian or Worcestershire Resident Passholder: Free
Buy your tickets here!

Please be aware that Historic Houses Association Membership is not valid for this event.
The upper rooms of the Bishop’s Palace will not be open and Grounds only tickets will not be available on these days.

Soft drinks, alcoholic drinks and light refreshments will be available to purchase. Please do not bring your own alcohol.
You’re welcome to bring camping chairs to sit on during the battle. Well-behaved dogs are also welcome on a short lead in the grounds only, but please do not bring them to the battle due to the loud noises.

Ashby-de-la-Zouche
2025-08-02 - 2025-08-03 | Worcestershire
The Sealed Knot are back to bring you the sights and sounds of the English Civil Wars with the Siege of Ashby!
Join Lord Greys regiment and the parliament army as they move to attack Ashby castle from Bath grounds. Find out if the Royalist army is successful in defending it.
Step back in time and find out about life in the 17th Century life by visiting our Living history camp. Join the Armies as they march through the town to the battle field and watch the excitement of the battle which pike, musket and cannon in action.
Join us for a great family day out.a
The action takes place at Bath Grounds on Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd of August 2025.
The living history camp will be open from 10am till 4pm
Cannon displays at 12 noon
The March sets off from Ivanhoe College at 1.00 PM.
Battle will commence at 2PM
For more information visit follow this link

Burghley House
2025-08-02 - 2025-08-03 | Worcestershire
The Sealed Knot and Colonel John Pickerings Regiment take over Burghley House for the weekend!

Saturday 2nd & Sunday 3rd August
Experience the sights, sounds, and skills of the English Civil War as Colonel John Pickering’s Regiment of Foote brings history to life at Burghley. This immersive Living History event showcases the crafts, trades, and daily life of the mid-1640s, offering a fascinating journey into the past.
Meet the soldiers who fought on the side of Parliament as well as their Royalist adversaries and discover how they lived while on the march. Learn about the role of soldiers, the equipment they used, and how a regiment was structured. There will also be displays of arms, offering detailed explanations of the weaponry of the time and its role in 17th century life.
Explore 17th century encampments where re-enactors demonstrate traditional crafts such as wood carving, spinning, and candle-making. Engage with history as you handle period objects, try on traditional clothing, and discover the realities of life during the Civil War—from domestic routines to the challenges of the time.
Perfect for history enthusiasts of all ages, this event offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience 17th century life up close!

Event times – Saturday & Sunday 10.00 – 4.30
Prices – Standard admission prices to the gardens
For more details, check out https://burghley.co.uk/

Worcester Under Siege
2025-08-24 - 2025-08-25 | Bennetts Willow Barn, Manor Farm, Malvern Road, Lower Wick, Worcester, WR2 4BS
WORCESTER UNDER SIEGE – The faithful city in the English Civil War
Book your tickets now
A FULL DAY OF INTERACTIVE HISTORY FOR ALL THE FAMILY 24th & 25th OF AUGUST.
Join the Sealed Knot as we explore what it was like to live, and fight, in Worcestershire in the English Civil War. Explore our Living history encampment and take part in our activities. Witness the spectacle of a 17th century battlefield brought to life, complete with infantry, artillery and cavalry troops as the faithful city attempts to hold out for the king one final time.
Location: Manor Farm, Malvern Road, Worcester, WR2 4BS.
Event Opening Times.
10am – 4pm Sunday 24th and Monday 25th of August 2025 (main battle 2.00pm)
Performance Times
Our arena and timetabled displays are all included in your ticket price.
An opportunity to discover how the troops of a 17th century army worked as well as get involved and discover if you’ve got what it takes! Learn, see and experience the sights and sounds of the English civil war as we bring history to life. Check out our website for more information regarding performance timings: www.thesealedknot.org.uk.
All Day Activities
A Full Day of Interactive History For All The Family
Join the Sealed Knot as we explore what it was like to live, and fight, in Northamptonshire in the 17th Century. Explore our Living history encampment and take part in our activities. Witness the spectacle of a 17th century battlefield brought to life, complete with infantry, artillery and cavalry troops as we re-create this pivotal moment of the English Civil War.

See displays of ECW Weapons and Tactics.
Explore Civilian life in our Living History camp.
Take part in our ‘have a go’ activities.
Complete our kids activity sheets and treasure hunts.
Meet our Soldiers face to face.
Witness the spectacle of our main battle.

Ticket Prices
Family (2 adults & 2 children): £35
Adult: £12
Child (over 3): £8
Under 3 enter free.
Early bird tickets have now sold out.
Book your tickets now
Car parking pass to park in the field: £5. Although we will have ample parking in our grazing fields, we are trying to encourage people to walk and use public transport to us as much as possible.
Please Note: Due to the nature of our displays, loud noises from canon and musket are a common occurrence, please bear that in mind when looking to bring small children and dogs.
About the organiser
The Sealed Knot is the oldest re-enactment society in the UK, a registered educational charity, and the single biggest re-enactment society in Europe. The Sealed Knot brings history to life by staging events throughout the country all year round, offering a chance to experience at first hand the horrors of a nation at war with itself, as well as providing a glimpse of everyday life in the 17th century.

Newent Onion Festival
2025-09-13 - 2025-09-14 | Newent, High Street, Newent, Gloucestershire, GL18 1AN, United Kingdom
Newent Onion Fayre
Dates: 13-14 September
Location: High Street, Newent GL18 1AN

From onion eating to parading pooches, the annual Newent Onion Fayre is an event like no other! The Earl of Manchester’s Regiment of Foote is proud to be a part of this revitalised traditional festival, celebrating the humble onion!
Brining thousands to this quiet corner of Gloucestershire, the Onion Fayre began in the 13th century under the seal of King Henry III. Cancelled due to the covid pandemic, the Fayre is now back and our English Civil War soldiers will help bring a little 17th Century fun to proceedings.
A great day out for all the family, the Newent Onion Fayre is the home of the world-famous onion eating competition, which sees competitors test the strength of their stomachs as they race to consume an entire raw onion. Plus, there will be activities galore, with live music, street entertainment, fairground rides, market stalls selling local produce, and much more!
Weekend schedule
Opening times both days: 10am-4.30pm
Saturday: Onion Fayre, including cameos from the Sealed Knot
Sunday: Living History, with battle at 1.30pm
More details to come…
The history
Sat on the front lines of the English Civil War, Newent was strongly Royalist – it is said that the rector of St Mary’s, John Wilse, rode into battle alongside Royalist cavalry, armed with a pistol in each hand!
It was under Sir William Vavasour that Newent had its largest role. The younger son of an important Yorkshire gentleman, Vavasour was captured at Edgehill in 1642 but escaped and arrived at the King’s capital of Oxford to a hero’s welcome. Mustering a local 2,600-strong force at Hereford and marching on Tewkesbury in 1644, Vavasour’s army was bolstered by English troops brought over from suppressing the Irish Rebellion. He marched to Newent, garrisoning the town with Colonel Mynne’s infantry, while he established more garrisons at nearby Highnam and Taynton.
Vavasour was given the task of blockading the Parliamentarian stronghold of Gloucester and securing the county to provide troops and money for the King. This he did successfully until the Royalist defeat at Cheriton in March 1644 meant Vavasour’s force had to march away to reinforce the King’s main field army. This left the county open and in mid-April Gloucester’s governor, Colonel Edward Massey, sallied out and attacked Mynne at Newent. The attack was repulsed, but Mynne was ordered to withdraw to Ross-on-Wye to protect Herefordshire while Vavasour tried to raise a new local army.

Nantwich
2026-01-24 - 2026-01-25 | Nantwich, Cheshire
About this event
HOLLY HOLY DAY NANTWICH – an English Civil War conflict in Cheshire.
A FULL DAY OF INTERACTIVE HISTORY FOR ALL THE FAMILY 24th JANUARY 2026.
Join The Sealed Knot as we explore what it was like to live, and fight during the English Civil War as we return to the town of Nantwich for our annual commemoration event in support of the Holly Holy Day Committee.
Follow our troops through the streets of Nantwich to the town square for a commemoration ceremony then witness the spectacle of a battlefield complete with hundreds of infantry, artillery and cavalry troops.
Location: Nantwich, Cheshire. Public entrance: Mill Island CW5 5
Event Opening Times.
Activities from 10am Saturday 24th January 2026.
Performance Times
The main battle starts around 2pm.
Ticket Prices
Family £10 (2 adult, 2 child)
Adult £5
Concession £4
Child £2
Please Note: Due to the nature of our displays, loud noises from canon and musket are a common occurrence, please bear that in mind when looking to bring small children and dogs. We always advise bringing chairs for anyone who may have mobility issues, and ear defenders for individuals with sensitivities to loud noise.
