Malmesbury steps back in time to mark its place in the English Civil War
Picture the scene: King Charles I’s Cavaliers are holding out in a Wiltshire market town when it is stormed by Cromwell’s men, resulting in a victory that sees the Parliamentarians take control.
Fast-forward 380 years and the battle that took place in Malmesbury in 1644 is about to be reenacted, only this time the front of the town’s famous Abbey will hopefully not become peppered with musket shot!
A special commemorative weekend, from May 3-5, is being hosted by Malmesbury Town Council to mark the two years, from 1644-1646, when Colonel Nicholas Devereux’s Regiment took control of the hilltop town, at the height of the English Civil War.
The highlight of a packed programme of events will be two reenactments, on Sunday May 5, of the last attack on Malmesbury, and will be staged by living history group Colonel Nicholas Devereux’s Regiment of Foot.
The Regiment will make a large-scale visit to Malmesbury – bringing with them some of the foe (the Royalists) - and the battle will be reenacted for the first time on the streets.
Devereux Events
A talk by Dr Chris Scott, former Director of Education for The Royal Armouries and an accomplished story teller.
Experience the 1640s in Malmesbury as living history group Colonel Nicholas Devereux's Regiment of Foot make a large scale visit.
Visit a Civil War military camp and displays in the Town Hall. See live demonstrations of food preparation and cooking, the officers tent, scribing, dyeing and making, sword skills, a beer shop and tavern, C17th music and dancing, period games and meet Chuck and his rider.
See the original unique Birds Eye View Map of Malmesbury produced at the time the Devereux were in Malmesbury from 1644 to 1646 and important Warden and Freemen of Malmesbury memorabilia.
Visit a Civil War military camp and displays in the Town Hall. See live demonstrations of food preparation and cooking, the officers tent, scribing, dyeing and making, sword skills, a beer shop and tavern, C17th music and dancing, period games and meet Chuck and his rider.
Live re-enactment of the last attack on Malmesbury in May 1644 … Abbey Row, Gloucester Street, Market Cross.
Spectating places open from 20 mins before the event.
Stewards instructions must be followed at all times.
