Pendennis Castle Victorian Fayre
Posted: 2010-08-17
Queen Victoria first visited Falmouth in 1843. If you happened to have missed seeing the queen the first time around (like, for example, if you weren't born yet!) you might want to catch her this time, as she makes a return appearance this August 2010 Bank Holiday weekend in an English Heritage event at Pendennis Castle.
The event is 'A Grand Victorian Fayre', and it takes place on Bank Holiday Sunday and Monday, 29-30 August, 2010, in the grounds of the historic castle. My contact at English Heritage tells me this is one of their larger and most popular events in the south west. You can enjoy the pomp and glory of the Victorian age through a series of themed Victorian events that aim to recreate popular 19th-century entertainments, including gymkhana displays and even etiquette lessons from the 'Queen' herself.
Queen Victoria will be bringing her royal cavalry with her, so you can expect to see tricks and skills on horseback, as well as weapon and canon firing displays.
Now, of course, we're not talking about the real Queen Victoria - this queen is played by a historical interpreter, Sylvia Strange, who will be on-hand to meet and converse with visitors throughout the weekend. Topics of conversation are likely to range from 19th-century customs to the contents of the royal hand-bag, and even the men in her life! Children will be shown the proper way to greet a Queen, how to serve tea using a traditional silver tea service, as well as try on authentic costumes including hats, cloaks and sunshades.
Among some of the weekend’s other highlights will be the excitement of a Victorian gymkhana with gentlemen in period costumes and ladies riding side-saddle competing against each other in relay races. There will also be mounted-skill-at-arms whereby soldiers in Victorian cavalry uniforms will demonstrate their shooting skills. Visitors will also get the chance to see a Victorian sideshow where they will be challenged to count just how many fleas there are in the flea circus.
In addition, a local Cornish brass band will be on hand to entertain the crowds with traditional music and lead a grand parade around the castle.
DETAILS
What: A Grand Victorian Fayre
When: Sunday 29 and Monday 30 August (Bank Holiday), 11am – 5pm
Where: Pendennis Castle, Falmouth TR11 4LP
Prices: Adult: £8.80/ Concession: £7.10/ Child: £5.00/ Family: £22.60
English Heritage Members: Adult: £2.50/ Concession: £2.00/ Child: £1.50/ Family: £6.50
Note: pre-booking is recommended on 0870 333 1183 or visit www.english-heritage.org.uk/pendennis
Resources:
Pendennis Castle - our visit
Cornwall - Travel and Heritage Information
Pendennis Castle - Official English Heritage website
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