Notice: Christmas At Guildford Castle Brings History To Life

Published on: 28 Nov, 2018
Updated on: 28 Nov, 2018

Visitors to Guildford will have a unique opportunity to step back in time to experience a Medieval Christmas at Guildford Castle and to see aspects of our history brought back to lif

This Saturday, December 1, Historia Normannis, a 12th-century living history society will present a range of displays in the lower grounds of Guildford Castle introducing varied aspects on Norman life.

When King William I conquered England in 1066, he built castles in all the important towns to strengthen his hold on the country. It is almost certain that Guildford Castle was built shortly after the Norman conquest.

In 1347 King Edward III is known to have visited Guildford Castle at Christmas time.

On Saturday, Past Pleasures, a professional costumed live interpretation company, will take visitors back to encounter King Edward, Queen Philippa of Hainault and members of their Court when they celebrated Christmas at Guildford Castle almost 700 years ago.

Visitors can follow King Edward and Queen Phillipa through the grounds of Guildford Castle to the castle itself. Here the ‘King and his Queen’ will address the crowd before entering the castle where they – and members of the public – will enjoy festive merriment provided by medieval musicians and dancing – along with the promise of high jinx from the Gong Scourer, appointed on this occasion to be the ‘Lord of Misrule’.

Admission to the Castle Grounds is free. King Edward’s procession will enter the Castle Grounds by the entrance opposite Chapel Street at approximately noon, 1.30pm and 2.30pm. Join the Christmas procession through the Castle Grounds, arriving at the castle for dancing and frolics.

Entry to the castle is by ticket: £3.20 for adults, £1.60 for children. Concessions and under-fives have free entry. There is a maximum of 50 visitors allowed into the castle at one time. Last entry to the castle is 3pm.

The Historia Normannis village will be situated in the lower Castle Grounds, where visitors can enjoy the workings of 12th century life.

The event is organised by Guildford Museum which will be open from 11am to 5pm. Admission to the museum is free.

For more information call 01483 444751 or email heritageservices@guildford.gov.uk.