HUNTINGDON HERITAGE FESTIVAL
Huntingdon Town Council invites you to attend the Huntingdon Heritage Festival in association with Walton Historical Services. On Saturday and Sunday 26th and 27th June 2010, Huntingdon will take a step back in time to explore some key aspects of its local history in a weekend of historical mayhem and entertainment, which we hope will make your visit a truly memorable one.

The Huntingdon Heritage Festival organised by the Town Council took place on Riverside Park, Hartford Road, Huntingdon, PE29 3RP. Opening times 11.00am - 5.00pm on Saturday 26th June and 11.00am -4.00pm on Sunday 27th June.

The Council aimed to repeat the success of the Huntingdon 800 Festival in 2005, which celebrated the awarding of the Town’s Charter and which attracted over 20,000 visitors. A number of arena presentations took place ranging from the time of the Normans through to the Civil wars where ranks of warriors and soldiers engage in fierce combat using replica weapons from their chosen period.

If you wanted to take a break from the arena or for the less bloodthirsty amongst you could take a wander through the extensive living history encampment. Here you had the opportunity to talk to a mediaeval medical practitioner on what ailments you have (although his recommendations may require a strong stomach), or talk fashion to the tailor before watching a 500 year fashion show.

Kitchen staff were on hand to discuss the dietary trends of numerous historical periods and in the evening you could sample the authentic historical fayre at a banquet being held in Commemoration Hall, where serving wenches were on hand to provide you with your feast.

Re-enactors were pleased to answer any visitor’s questions and there were plenty of opportunities to try on the armour or pick up a sword. There was also be a series of scheduled talks and displays in all of the camps given by experts in their field. You could even participate in an eighteenth century election!

In addition there was a chance to meet a number of important historical characters. You could discuss politics with Oliver Cromwell, but be careful as a wrong word may see you visiting the efficient executioner who will be happy to explain his craft!

Wander through the historical market and around the Community stalls with the opportunity to purchase refreshments from various food vendors and sample a selection of real ales from the beer tent.

To finish the day there was a spectacular joust, staged by the Knights of the Damned Jousting Display Team with their breathtaking display of stunts and horsemanship.

Huntingdon Heritage Website
http://www.huntingdontown.gov.uk/LatestNews/Festival%20Photo%20Gallery.htm

Conwy Richards Website
www.coracle-fishing.net