Medieval battles from the war of the Roses are bought to life in North London during Barnet Medieval festival, as people lived and fought like they did more than 500 years ago. This is a lesson of history, as told outside of the classroom and on the battlefield. Barnet Medieval Festival in London is the only medieval festival of its kind and is dedicated to engaging people in the history of the Battle of Barnet. Fought on 14th April 1471, the Battle of Barnet saw Edward IV lead his Yorkist army to victory against the Lancastrian forces led by the Earl of Warwick. This year’s re-enactment was held at Barnet Elizabethans RFC, Byng Road, Chipping Barnet on the weekend of 11th and 12th September 2021. Watch here to see how the day went and to hear from historian and event coordinator, Howard.
Charity Face Uphill Battle to get Festival going.
Following two previous festivals in 2018 and 2019, the festival had to be postponed due to the pandemic. In lieu of this, the festival organisers – including Susan Skedd, festival director – were keen to begin raising funds to make the re-enactment a possibility. We came across this project and were eager to support such a community driven project. Historical re-enactments do not exist to merely entertain, but to also educate. It is an attempt to bring the past into presence, to develop a feeling of ‘being there’ in participants by means of an immersive experience. That’s why we pledged to donate £750 towards the execution of the festival.
EverythingGlobal gets caught in the Crossfire.
The stage was set in sunlight as we headed down for a memorable weekend of combat and firepower displays, amplified by expert talks and skilful demonstrations. Visitors will be able to sample various medieval recipes courtesy of Jane’s Medieval Kitchen, to admire the detailed and atmospheric depictions of medieval battle scenes by the artist Graham Turner who provided the artwork for our posters, and to enjoy a medieval music performed by A Merrie Noyse. Topping the bill will be re-enactments of the Battle of Barnet at 4pm on both days, together with a re-enactment of the Battle of Tewkesbury, which is also marking its 550th anniversary this year.
