Celebrate the 370th anniversary of The Siege of Pendennis’ from Tuesday 26 – Thursday 28 July
Get the summer holidays off to a historic start with a live-action day out at one of Cornwall’s greatest castles. From 26 – 28 July history hunters young and old can experience the thrill of The Siege of Pendennis’ at Falmouth’s Pendennis Castle. The three day-long event will mark the 370th anniversary of the 1646 siege with dramatic shows, hands of family fun, and a feast of historic entertainments.
Presiding over the entrance to Falmouth Harbour, the fortress of Pendennis Castle has enjoyed its fair share of action over the centuries – but none more so than in the dramatic siege of 1646. At the time Falmouth was an important port for King Charles 1’s army. By 1646 Pendennis was one of the last Royalist garrisons to hold out against the Parliamentary army: around 1,000 men endured a three-month siege of the castle – finally agreeing an honourable surrender in August when food supplies ran out.
English Heritage is marking this dramatic part of Pendennis’ past with a fun-filled three days of anniversary celebrations. Visitors can experience life in a castle under siege as key scenes are recreated. Expect attacking troops, the roar of canons, the beat of drums, and the clash of swords as the action gets underway. Whether you’re a Roundhead or Cavalier – choose your side and cheer on your champions!
Throughout the event visitors will be transported back in time to the 17th Century. Explore the sights, sounds, and smells, of life as both the attackers and the besieged – as the troops set up camp in the castle keep, and in tents throughout the castle grounds. Between battles enjoy music of the period with Myal Pyper, join the story-teller for tales of sieging through the ages, and meet the surgeon (and his leeches!) as he plies his bloody trade.
Budding young besiegers can join the cause as they train in the siege maze’, try their hand at 17th century games, and meet the siege engineers. They can even test their newfound skills in special children’s canon and musket and pike drills throughout the day.
“The 1646 siege was an important period in the history of Pendennis, and it seems only right to bring some of that drama back to the castle for the 370th anniversary.” Explains English Heritage Event Manager Jenny Davie, “We’ll be exploring how the people of Pendennis withstood attack for so long – as well as recreating some of the key moments of the three month siege. This promises to be a really lively, action-packed three days – and a great start to our jam-packed summer of events.”
The Siege of Pendennis takes place from Tuesday 26 – Thursday 28 July. A Family ticket is £27.30, Adults are £10.50, and children are £6.30. English Heritage members enjoy reduced price entry.
Event Listing
The Siege of Pendennis
Join us as we mark the 370th anniversary of the Siege of Pendennis. Expect live-action re-enactments and one almighty attack as the castle is besieged.
When: 11am – 5pm, Tuesday 26 – Thursday 28 July 2016
Where: Pendennis Castle, Falmouth, Cornwall, TR11 4LP
Tickets: Adult £10.50 / Child £6.30 / Family £27.30 / Concession £9.30
EH Members: Adult £2.60 / Child £1.60 / Family £6.80 / Concession £2.30
