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Homepage > Find an Event > Colchester Living History Festival

Colchester Living History Festival

Contact Name:

Luke Polley

Venue:

Alresford Hall

Address:

The Old Granary
Ford Lane
Colchester

County:

Essex

Postcode:

CO7 8AY

Daytime Phone:

07584968420

Event Start Date:

24-05-2026

Event End Date:

25-05-2026

Email:

[email protected]

Website:

http://www.alresfordhall.com/colchester-living-history-festival/

Description:

Feel the Thunder of Muskets & Hooves! Step back in time this Late May Bank Holiday as 2,000 re-enactors, roaring cannons, and thundering cavalry come to Alresford Hall, near Colchester, for the largest English Civil War re-enactment Essex has ever seen!   On Sunday 24th and Monday 25th May 2026, history comes vividly to life with spectacular full-scale battles, complete with muskets, artillery, and mounted troops charging across the field in a dramatic recreation of 17th-century warfare.  

Beyond the battlefield, immerse yourself in a bustling living-history village where traders, craftspeople, and historical interpreters demonstrate period skills, including blacksmithing, weaving, cooking, music, and more. Wander the encampments, talk to soldiers, and experience life during the siege firsthand.  

Make a day of it with our food and drink festival, showcasing local produce, street food, historic ales, sweet treats, and family-friendly refreshments. With activities for all ages, demonstrations, and opportunities to learn, discover and explore, it’s the perfect way to enjoy an early summer weekend.  

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a family looking for a unique day out, or simply curious to see cannons fire and horses charge once more across Colchester’s fields, this is history brought to life, louder and more thrilling than ever.   A weekend of smoke, steel, and living history — don’t miss it! (Ticket holders also get access to Visitor Attraction Wyvernwood)

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