13 June 2023
A hot and sunny weekend saw the Saxons take over the Castle Grounds with a packed programme of activities enjoyed by all ages.
Tamworth Borough Council’s event officially opened on the Friday evening in the Great Hall at the castle, with guest speaker David Stokes, author and Professor at Kingston University and his wonderful insight into Aethelflead and her father, King Alfred the Great’s influence.
Aethelfest allows visitors to travel back in time and see what life was like as a Saxon centuries ago; think fires, weapons and armour, pottery, heraldry, myths, legends, stories and archery.
Tamworth, during the Saxon times, was the capital of the Kingdom of Mercia, and one of the most powerful kingdoms of Anglo-Saxon England. The town’s rich history was celebrated through free fun storytelling and various free demonstrations – from embroidery to coin making, to demonstrations of Saxon burial rites and battle re-enactments. Plus, free live music at the bandstand.
In the glorious sunshine, visitors to the Castle Grounds were able to expand their knowledge of Tamworth history by meeting Saxon living history characters in the encampment and book onto a talk in the ancient castle; see items of the Staffordshire hoard, and learn about Aethelflaed, the incredible ‘Lady of the Mercians’.
The castle special talks took place throughout the weekend from renowned authors and historians including Annie Whitehead, Roland Williamson, MJ Porter, Tim Clarkson and David Stokes.
In addition, the castle hosted its first unique tasting event with The Mercia Spirit Lab featuring their special range of locally produced spirits, mead and Mercia gin.
Councillor Andrew Cooper, Cabinet member for Entertainment and Leisure at Tamworth Borough Council, said: “What a fantastic experience that everyone enjoyed on such a beautiful and sunny weekend.
“These events are extremely popular in Tamworth as it gives people the chance to put themselves in the shoes of those who lived centuries ago. As well as being educational, the weekend was filled with loads of fun activities making it a family event.
“The weekend was also an opportunity to visit Tamworth Castle and take in the history and traditions inside the walls. It’s an incredible ancient monument that we are so proud to have in our town, open all year round and well worth a visit.
“This Aethelfest we had some renowned speakers and historians sharing their knowledge and live demonstrations that were a big hit with everyone that attended. There are special books from the authors still available to buy from the castle gift shop.”
Keep up to date with all our castle events by following their Facebook page and website here: www.tamworthcastle.co.uk/events. Next events take place this weekend with archaeological talks and presentations.