Medieval reenactors

It seems there are precious few periods of history that don't attract reenactors. In the UK it is not unusual to see enthusiasts dressed as Roundheads and Cavaliers (The Sealed Knot), WW2 army and air force personnel, knights on horseback jousting or Roman soldiers. At Tewkesbury's annual medieval fayre soldiers, ladies, musicians and more, all in medieval attire can be seen. Some spend their nights in colourful pavilions to extend the experience to their sleeping arrangements. I imagine the coronavirus has put paid to this year's fayre so here is a shot from the 2018 event.On a very hot July day the chain mail must have weighed heavy.

photo © T. Boughen     Camera: Olympus OMD E-M10     2018

Medieval armour and weapons

It isn't every day that you come across a stall selling helmets, swords, daggers, axes, shields, even full suits of armour that would suit the well-dressed soldier of the middle ages. But if you go to Tewkesbury's annual Medieval Festival looking for such things you'll find stalls a-plenty and will be spoilt for choice.

photo © T. Boughen     Camera: Olympus OMD E-M1

Opulent medieval clothing

In July we attended the Tewkesbury Medeval Festival. This is billed as Europe's largest medieval re-enactment and, from the scale of the event, I can well believe that is the case. As well as people dressed in the finery and militaria of the period there were musicians, entertainers, food, and stalls selling everything the would-be medievalist might require. The rich materials shown in the photograph form part of a tunic, one of many for sale. As in the modern world, the clothing was available to meet the needs of the humblest serf and the highest nobility, as well as every class between.

photo © T. Boughen     Camera: Olympus OMD E-M10