Europe's biggest free medieval festival returns to Tewkesbury

Prepare for battle as the annual Tewkesbury Medieval Festival marches back into Gloucestershire this July 2026.

By Chloe Gorman  |  Published
White male historical reenactor in medieval armour at Tewkesbury Medieval Festival, Gloucestershire, UK
Tewkesbury Medieval Festival charges into battle for another year this July 2026 – with the town centre parade returning this year, too.

Local history comes to life in the most thrilling way when the annual Tewkesbury Medieval Festival makes its anticipated return this July 2026.

What to expect from Tewkesbury Medieval Festival?

Hear canons firing and swords clashing on the original site of the 1471 Battle of Tewkesbury at what has become the largest free medieval fayre and reenactment in Europe.

Attracting history lovers from around the world, the festival not only provides a professional reenactment of the famous War of the Roses battle, but also a historically accurate encampment populated by costumed characters and living history displays, as well as a beer tent, food and drink stalls and a medieval market selling everything from crafts to armour.

And returning for 2026, the festival's popular town centre parade is back, featuring spectacular period costumes, roaming characters, and medieval-themed entertainment, thanks to The Roses Theatre

When is Tewkesbury Medieval Festival?

Tewkesbury Medieval Festival takes place on Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 July 2026.

The parade through Tewkesbury town centre is taking place on Sunday at 11.15am.

Where is Tewkesbury Medieval Festival?

The main festivities take place on the original battle site off Gloucester Road, just outside Tewkesbury town centre, which is around a five-minute walk away.

There are also activities at the nearby Tewkesbury Abbey and in the town centre.

How much is Tewkesbury Medieval Festival?

Tewkesbury Medieval Festival is completely free to attend and volunteer-run.

Parking in the official festival car parks costs £10 for the day. 

Event

Tewkesbury Medieval Festival 2026

Venue

Tewkesbury Town Centre

Dates

Saturday 11 to Sunday 12 July 2026

Times

11am to 6pm Saturday and 11am to 5pm Sunday

Admission

Free of charge

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