Hosting Henry VIII Festival

A spectacular weekend festival full of Tudor merry-making. Enjoy jousting, falconry, music and food!

In 1533 Henry & Gertrude Courtenay invited King Henry VIII for a visit to West Horsley Place. Almost 500 years later we are recreating this momentous stay it as a unique multi-sensory experience. 

You can taste the King's feast, listen to Tudor music, watch falconry displays, cheer for your favourite jousting knight and much more. It will be an epic day out to remember. 

BOOK THE FESTIVAL

Things to see & do:

Immerse Yourself in the Story of the King's Visit

Inside the Manor House you will be plunged into the world of Lord & Lady Courtenay. Enter the real location of the 1533 visit, the Stone Hall, while it is decorated with colourful tapestries and smells like sweet herbs. 

Try real Tudor Food

Costumed history experts will allow you to meet the characters involved and tempt you to try authentic food from the surviving 1533 menu. 

Watch Henry VIII Joust

Our host Henry Courtenay was one of the Court's most skilled jousters. For one weekend only, witness the spectacle of the king jousting against his friend and favourite. 

Witness Tudor Falconry

A fine recreation of Tudor hawking and falconry will be presented by Raphael Historic Falconry. Live demonstrations will involve different birds as well as hounds. Between demonstrations you will be able to view the birds at rest  and meet the falconers.

Party Like it's 1533

Sign yourself up for a free Tudor dance session where you will learn some of the most popular dances at the court accompanied by live music.

Have Fun in the Kids' Zone

Having been inspired by the jousting, younger visitors can have a go at mini-jousting. 

They can also have their face painted, create their own shield, try their hand at archery or go to Jester School!

Chat with the Tudors

As you wander the beautiful grounds you will be able to chat to an array of living history experts in costume. From ladies of the court to blacksmiths, commoners and more! You will be able to see some of their heritage crafts in action. 

Listen to live music of the period performed by roaming musicians.

BOOK THE FESTIVAL

Eat, Drink & Shop

Rest assured that as well as trying authentic Tudor food, there will be plenty of contemporary cuisine on site, including a traditional hog roast, coffee and ice-cream. 

You can also indulge in some retail therapy as you peruse an array of stalls by local artists, makers and artisans. 

Pop into our barn for some shade where you will find a large refreshments barn (alcoholic and soft drinks) and seating area. 

You are welcome to bring a picnic too.  

Important Information

Ticket costs: Adult £25, Child (3-16) £10

Please note: The upstairs of the Manor House will not be open on the Hosting Henry VIII weekend festival. The majority of the festival will be held outside.

Dogs are welcome but must be on short fixed leads at all times. They are not allowed in the Manor House or walled gardens. 

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