THERE is set to be an attempt to blow up Bidford-on-Avon bridge this weekend.
But fear not, the ‘The Battle for Bidford Bridge’ will see Royalists and Parliamentarians do battle during a family-friendly living history event staged by the Sealed Knot reenactment
society in the south Warwickshire village on Saturday and Sunday (August 12 and 13).
Spectators will be transported back to the 17th century during the English Civil War when Warwickshire found itself on the front lines of a divided country.
There they can meet soldiers and civilians, discover traditional trades and watch demonstrations of pike and musket, with guided tours and cameos twice daily.
They will watch as Charles I’s men try to blow up the 15th century bridge at 11.30am each day and then, at 2pm, witness the battle as Cavalier and Roundhead fight it out for control of the vital river crossing.
At the height of the first English Civil War in 1644, King Charles marched his army over the bridge towards Worcester as he retreated from his increasingly-threatened capital at Oxford, his supporters dismantling the bridge to cover his retreat from the Roundhead army chasing him.
Open from 10am until 4pm, the encampment will take over the Big Meadow
The event has been organised by The Earl of Manchester’s Regiment of Foote, part of the Sealed Knot – Europe’s oldest and largest historical reenactment society – with support from Bidford Parish Council
Single and family tickets are available to pre-book, with family tickets (two adults and up to three children) £12. Entry on the day will be cash only – £7.50 per adult, with children free when each is accompanied by a paying adult.
Visit www.earlofmanchesters.co.uk/bidford for further details.
