Hearth brings medieval mayhem to Bishop Auckland

A County Durham community is celebrating a new cultural initiative with a lively medieval-themed launch day.

Bishop Auckland’s Auckland Palace will host Medieval Mayhem on Saturday, July 26 to mark the arrival of Hearth – a three-year community programme developed by regeneration charity The Auckland Project and supported by SHED.

The free, family-friendly event promises a packed day of swordplay, archery, crafts and performance. 

Highlights include medieval music from The Ran Tanners, hands-on embroidery and coin-striking with the Acle Early Medieval Re-Enactment Society, as well as swordplay lessons with a costumed Antony Bek, the warrior bishop of Durham.

Visitors can try their hand at archery on six ranges (ages seven-plus), take part in heraldry-themed crafts, or paint in the open air with local artist Jilly Johnston. 

A live birds of prey display will also take place.

Ali Hone, Hearth network lead, said: “Hearth is about creating spaces where everyone feels they can take part. 

“We want to make it easy and enjoyable for people to connect with others and be part of the cultural life of the town – whether that’s through art, nature, storytelling, music or shared experiences.

“Medieval Mayhem is our way of saying: ‘You’re invited!’ These spaces and experiences are for you.”

Medieval Mayhem is free to attend and no booking is required.

See here for more details.

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