Sounds of musket and cannon-fire will be filling Colchester’s city centre over the weekend of the 19-20 August, as Colchester City Council and the English Civil War Society prepares to stage an epic re-enactment and commemoration of the 73-day siege of Colchester, which took place 375 years ago, in 1648.
The event has been organised by Colchester City Council as part of the city’s Year of Celebration to commemorate its modern city status.
In what is one of the biggest events of its kind to take place in Colchester, the weekend will see over 500 re-enactors from the English Civil War Society descend on the city centre for an entire weekend of living history, pageantry and excitement.
FREE for all to attend, you’ll get to meet the protagonists, witness battles between the Royalists and Parliamentarians and explore the encampments to understand more about this tragic period of Colchester’s rich history. The main events will take place in Colchester’s Castle Park, but throughout the weekend pop up events will be taking place at various locations throughout the city-centre drawing in visitors and residents alike.
Councillor Pam Cox, Portfolio Holder for Culture and Heritage, said: “The Siege Spectacular promises to be an action-packed, immersive experience. Re-telling one of the most tragic periods in Colchester’s history it will bring the story to a new generation to understand and commemorate the cities rich history. For now, please save the date and further details will be released over the coming months, including a detailed programme and maps of what’s happening where in the city.
David Molloy, English Civil War Society (ECWS): “The siege was a pivotal moment in Colchester’s history and an important event in the Civil War. The ECWS is delighted to be bringing the 17th Century to present day Colchester this August and we look forward to informing and entertaining the city by retelling this decisive moment in Colchester’s History.”
Visitors and residents wanting to find out more about the Siege are encouraged to head to Colchester Castle to view the Castle’s temporary display showcasing objects from the museum's collection. Available to view from the 2 June, which marks the start of the Siege back in 1648, its one not to miss.
For more details, please head to Colchester Siege Spectacular - Historical Event in Colchester, Colchester - Visit Colchester
Page last reviewed: 2 May 2023