Gloucester through the ages - Live!

Some frequently asked questions

1. The Show

What's it all about then?

This major multi-era historical living history festival is organised by EventPlan Limited in association with Gloucester City Council, who commissioned it. The event, which is expected to attract over 10,000 visitors, is primarily funded by the Heritage lottery Fund, and celebrates the rich heritage of the city. Displays range from the Romans to WWII with many performers from numerous groups, combat, living history and other historical displays. In addition the Gloucester Civic Trust, Folk museum and City Museum & Art Gallery are laying on a variety of things to see and do. It will be a great, entertaining family weekend, yet very authentic.

And amazingly, it's FREE!

Is the event suitable for families and small children?

Absolutely. There will be a huge variety of displays and activities to enjoy, with plenty of have a go activities. As well as the re-enactments (which include have a go activities) there will be lots of other things to see and do. See our timetable of displays and activities.

Is the show the same each day?

On Saturday, they'll be a grand parade through the city centre, medieval music and song in the Cathedral, and an evening 1940s music, song and searchlights entertainment at the historic docks. On Sunday they'll be a medieval pilgrimage to the cathedral. Otherwise its the same both days so if you missed something on Saturday, the chances are that you can see it on Sunday.

What sort of displays will visitors see, and how many are there each day?

There will be a huge variety of historical displays to enjoy including ongoing living history and many other activities. 

Because so much is happening at once, visitors may not able to see everything in one day so might wish to choose what displays they want to see most, or plan to come for both days.

Is it photogenic?

Yes. Within the restrictions of city locations, the displays are designed to look as good as possible. In order not to spoil the view for other visitors, there will be certain viewing (and photography) arrangements in force around the Main Arena (for example, sitting at the front only - no standing near the front to take photos etc).

Will there be a programme?

Gloucester City Council will be producing a programme (due for publication soon), widely distributed in advance and available fee on the day. Ask for a copy at the Guildhall or

Gloucester Tourist Information Centre.
28 Southgate Street, Gloucester.
GL1 2DP.
Tel: 01452 396572.
Email: tourism@gloucester.gov.uk

Don't some of the displays glorify war?

No they don't, far from it. Our re-enactments are always as authentic as possible and no punches are pulled regarding the horror of war.  The re-enactors are deeply committed to both commemorating and honouring the men and women caught up in wars and military action through the ages. By recreating the past, we and the re-enactors hope that their experiences won’t be forgotten, and can be avoided in the future.

Although there will be military displays relevant to the city's history - for example, the Siege of 1643 - and some combat, there won't be any battles on this occasion.

2. Getting there

Gloucester is close to Junctions 11 and 12 of the M5.  Take the A40 and/or then the A38 into the city.

The event takes place at various venues within the city. Ask at Tourist Information Centres or the Guildhall for a free programme (due to be published in March).

3. Admission to the event

Admission to all event venues is FREE. Pretty amazing, eh? There is a small charge for have a go archery at Blackfriars, and admission is charged to the Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum, next to our event arena at the historic docks, although as a special offer there is free entry for any ex-British National Servicemen over the weekend.

4. Facilities 

Is the event disabled-friendly?

Most venues are flat with access for the disabled.

What facilities are available?

In addition to the city's usual faclities there are portaloos and extra catering.  Parking will be at existing city car parks. A parking fee applies on Saturday, although some car parks are free on Sunday. Or you can use the Park and Ride services, saving money and effort!

Is there overnight camping?

We regret that there is no visitor camping or caravan spaces, or overnight facilities. If you would like to camp in the area, please refer to Tourist Information Centre (above) for details of the nearest camp sites.

Re-enactors will be camping in period tents or in our participants-only modern camping area. As the latter is limited we ask all those participants able to camp "in period" to do so.

How do I find out about local accommodation?

The Tourist Information Centre (above) can send you a comprehensive guide by post or give information over the telephone.

5. Taking part

How will participating re-enactors find out what was happening?

EventPlan will send full advance details to all participating groups for distribution to members.

We are re-enactors. Can we take part?

Participation is by invitation only but we do welcome applications from groups wishing to take part. At this stage, new  invitations can only be offered to those groups that do not require modern camping space and can meet our Standard terms and conditions for participation.

Traders

EventPlan invite quality historical traders/demonstrators to take part (hard standing only). Please read trading opportunities and then contact us  if you would like to participate.

6. More information

The Gloucester City council web page about the event is at www.gloucester.gov.uk/throughtheages. For general tourism information, click here, or contact the Tourist Information Centre (above).

24 February 2008