There are lots of ways to mark the national day of England, by George
From medieval fun to a soldiers’ parade, SIMON MEECHAN rounds up the events taking place around the region tomorrow
ST George’s Day falls at the weekend this year, so there are events taking place if you want to celebrate England’s national day.
Pubs around the region are hosting special events where there will be plenty of chances to drink a pint of ale and enjoy a traditional Sunday roast.
But if you’re looking for something a little different, then there are family-friendly St George’s Daythemed days on at locations around the North East.
Among the festivities is a parade through Newcastle city centre, a medieval day at the city’s historic castle and a pageant at Warkworth Castle which includes a bit of dragon-slaying. There are also craft days and dragon runs.
So if you want to celebrate St George’s Day today or tomorrow, here are some ideas for you.
PARADE - NEWCASTLE CITY CENTRE, TOMORROW, 10AM-12.30PM
The 5th Fusiliers will be parading through Newcastle city centre to celebrate St George’s Day. The Fusiliers band will lead the parade, which coincides with its regimental day. It starts at Fenham Barracks at 10am, and should pause near Old Eldon Square’s war memorial at about 10.30 for a service of thanksgiving. The soldiers will then march up Northumberland Street. The parade is due to end at 12.30pm. Newcastle City Council is closing the following city centre roads between 9.45am and 12.30pm for the parade: Barrack Road between Brighton Grove and Gallowgate; Gallowgate between Barrack Road and Blackett Street; Blackett Street between Gallowgate and Northumberland Street; Northumberland Street between Blackett Street and Northumberland Road; Northumberland Road between Northumberland Street and John Dobson Street; John Dobson Street between Northumberland Road and St Mary’s Place; St Mary’s Place at the junction with John Dobson Street
ST GEORGE’S DAY CELEBRATIONS - CASTLE KEEP, TOMORROW, 11AM-4PM
If you want to see St George in Newcastle, the it’s off to the Keep you should go.
The castle is hosting a celebration day, with costumed characters taking part in food, music and combat demonstrations.
St George will be galloping around the castle on his horse looking for a dragon to slay. Maypole dancers will perform from 1pm and anyone who wants to learn how to boogie in a traditional English fashion is invited to join in.
In the Black Gate there will be craft activities, including lessons on how to make your own paper dragon. The castle’s standard entrance fees apply: Adults – £6.50 Concessions (students, seniors and unwaged) – £5.50 Child (5-15) – £3.90 Family of four – £16.90 Under-fives – free.
MEDIEVAL ST GEORGE’S DAY – WARKWORTH CASTLE, NORTHUMBERLAND, TODAY AND TOMORROW, 11AM-5PM
It’s a castle near the coast with a moat; where else would you want to see medieval combat displays?
Warkworth Castle in Northumberland is hosting a medieval St George’s Day event over both days of this weekend.
English Heritage says: “Join us to experience St George’s Day the medieval way at Warkworth Castle in Northumberland this weekend. Join the medieval townsfolk, musicians and nobles as they celebrate with combat displays and music performances. Meet the mysterious knight in his shining armour and keep an eye out for his famous foe, the dragon.” Entry is free to English Heritage members. Otherwise prices are: Adult – £6.20 5-15 years – £3.70 Concession – £5.60 Family – £16.10
ST GEORGE’S DAY DASH – GIBSIDE, ROWLANDS GILL, GATESHEAD, TOMORROW, 9.30AM-3PM
If you fancy something a little different from the usual medieval fairs in scenic stately homes or castles, why not run around Gibside dressed as a dragon?
The 5km Dragon Dash starts at 9.30am, and runners are encouraged to don dragon costumes. There is a prize for the best-dressed participant.
From 11am, there will be craft lessons and some good old English cricket. Booking is essential. It’s £10 for adults and £5 for kids. Call 01207 541820 to secure your place.
ST GEORGE’S DAY CRAFTS – ALNWICK GARDENS, NORTHUMBERLAND TODAY AND TOMORROW, 11AM-4PM
If you fancy taking in Alnwick Garden on Sunday, you can create your own St George’s Day crafts to celebrate the day.
All materials will be provided and are included with regular admission prices: Adults pay £12.10 on the gate or £11.50 online Concessions – £10.45 on the gate or £9.93 online Child (5-16) – £4.40 on the gate or £4.18 online Children aged four and under get in free of charge