2009 is the 500th anniversary of Henry VIII’s accession to the throne, and to celebrate the reign of one of history’s greatest monarchs, English Heritage is staging all new events at a picturesque Devon fortress that once formed part of King Henry’s great chain of coastal defences.
Every Monday and Tuesday in August, young visitors will get the chance to be a part of the Crafty Tudors & Tudor Tales. On Mondays, Crafty Tudors will see children of all ages being welcomed by castle staff to take part in a spot of Tudor craft making – parents can even help out too! Boys will get to be king for the day as they make themselves a Henry VIII style crown and accompanying beard for a decidedly regal look, while girls can try their hands at Tudor chic by making jewellery or creating a new signature style with their very own new bonnets. Young visitors can then return in their stately attire the following day as the popular Rattlebox puppet theatre will stage their 30 minute Tudor Tales at intervals throughout the day, presenting a vivid retelling of the lives of the Tudor family.
Karen Pike, Events Manager for English Heritage in the South West said: “This summer, we wanted to celebrate a defining moment in English history, and what better way than to get our younger guests to explore Tudor life with a month of Crafty Tudors and Tudor Tales events. Not only will children get to find out all about the Tudors, they will also have the chance to show off their creative side and take home their hand-made Tudor-inspired wares!”
After enjoying the Tudor Tales and Crafts, families can take in the beautiful surroundings of Dartmouth Castle or even enjoy some refreshments at the tearoom nearby. The fortress has guarded the Dart Estuary and the nearby town of Dartmouth since 1366, and has been a part of England’s coastal defence through the Civil War up until after World War II.
What: Crafty Tudors & Tudor Tales
When: Every Monday and Tuesday in August, 11am – 5pm
Where: Dartmouth Castle, Devon, TQ6 0JN
Prices: Adult: £5.30/ Child: £2.80/ Concession: £4.10/
English Heritage Members: Free
NB: admission charges apply on both days.
For information about Dartmouth Castle (including accessibility) please call: 01803 833588 or visit www.english-heritage.org.uk/dartmouth.
English Heritage 0117 922 7799
