Lewes: Battle of Lewes Weekend

Where: Lewes, Sussex-town centre and Priory
When: Weekend in mid May
Time: From 10 am with main Battle re-enactment at 3 pm approx.

 

The Battle of Lewes on 14th May 1264 was a significant event in the Second Barons War in which Henry III’s nobles rebelled against his authority under the leadership of Simon de Montfort. The barons were victorious, forcing the King to give them concessions and to accept the Provisions of Oxford, giving baronial rights of representation in government. De Montfort’s success was short-lived, as he was killed at the Battle of Evesham the following year. The Battle weekend commemorates these momentous events and is the only such commemoration to stage a large-scale pitched battle in the streets of a town in the UK. The Royal and Rebel forces fight it out on the cobbles in a dramatic recreation of the thirteenth century conflict. There are also living history displays, trade stalls and food & drink stalls at the event, and other medieval themed entertainments.

Helpful Hints

In 2024 it should be on Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th May. Admission is free.

Look out for the Monument to the battle in the shape of a helmet at the Priory.

Click here for the event Facebook page and full schedule: https://www.facebook.com/battleoflewes

and website: http://www.battleoflewes.com

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