History brought to life

Step back in time to medieval Peterborough at the fascinating Longthorpe Tower Living History events, presented by re-enactment enthusiasts the Medieval Sokemen, which get under way this weekend. The events weave together as a journey through the 14th and 15th centuries, giving you the opportunity to explore the Tower’s rich history and experience life as it was lived many years ago. Skilled costumed interpreters will regale you with tales of the Tower’s families and households during notable times, offering a vivid glimpse into daily life during this fascinating era.

April 20/21: Longthorpe Tower in the 14th Century

It’s 1329 and Robert Thorpe is at home with his family and household at Longthorpe Tower. All is not as it seems though, as whispers of local brigands stir unrest, hinting at imminent danger of attack and robbery!

Discover this gripping tale based on true events, as our reenactors bring to life the only recorded attack on Longthorpe Tower, and explore the legacy of the Thorpe family who built the Tower and commissioned the exceptional wall paintings.

August 3/4: Longthorpe Tower in the 15th Century

The Whittlebury family reside at Longthorpe Tower in 1471 during a time of turmoil – the Wars of the Roses is underway and the Yorkist King Edward IV is launching a bid to get his throne back from the Lancastrians. Which side will Robert Whittlebury choose?

Join the costumed interpreters to explore life in the 15th century, and watch as the family’s soldiers perform a medieval Bill Drill.

September 14: The Tower by Candlelight

Experience Longthorpe Tower lit by the soft glow of candlelight and uncover the fascinating tales of this remarkable building through a guided tour led by costumed characters representing different eras in the Tower’s rich history.

Meet characters from the illustrious Thorpe family, who built the Tower and commissioned the remarkable wall paintings, and the Whittlebury family amidst the turbulence of the 15th century. Encounter figures from the Tudor period when the wall paintings were covered over, the Civil War when nearby Thorpe Hall was constructed, and from World War II when the paintings were rediscovered.

November 2/3: A 15th Century Christmas

Delve into the past with our costumed history enthusiasts as they bring to life the traditions from a medieval Christmas. Discover how the festive season was celebrated 600 years

ago, with yuletide feasts, medieval games and an opportunity to take part in a traditional Mummer’s play!

The Longthorpe Tower Living History events also include detailed interpretation of the

famous painted chamber of Longthorpe Tower and there will be ample time for discussion and questions with expert guides.

For details of all the events, opening times and tickets prices go to https://www.nenepark. org.uk/news/longthorpe-tower-living-history-events

••Longthorpe Tower is cared for by English Heritage and managed locally by Nene Park Trust.

Longthorpe Tower comes to life with a series of events.