Always on
This project successfully funded on 11th May 2025, you can still support them with a donation.
Battle of Lewes Festival 2026
Lewes, East Sussex, United Kingdom
Aim
To celebrate the historic Battle of Lewes 1264 - a free for all, fun event featuring reenactment and entertainment in May 2026
The team
Our enthusiastic group of local historians has been organising and running the Battle of Lewes Festival at Convent Field in Lewes every May, and on a volunteer basis, for the last 4 years.
The Event
Completely free to visit and take part in, featuring historic battle enactments where they took place through the town, medieval stalls and entertainment, refreshments fit for a medieval King, and historic talks and tours.
Attendees
Last year with over 15,000 attendees, 150 medieval reenactors many travelling across the country, shared their skills in armed combat, with the people of Lewes and surrounding areas.
The vision
Our vision is to keep the event free to attend for all, expand the reach to more people and backgrounds, to educate in a pivotal special battle in a special place - Henry III was defeated by Simon de Montfort at Lewes Priory in May 1264, leading to the summoning of the first ever recorded parliament which included ordinary people as well as the nobility. And this year will be particularly special, as we celebrate the 760th anniversary of that parliament in 1265. Also, needless to say, de Montfort's comeuppance at the Battle of Evesham where the royalty took back control again.
But we can't do it alone. Will you help us?
All the money we raise will go towards the running costs of the festival. And to thank you for your support, we are offering you some extra special rewards which could make a wonderful treat for a loved one, or yourself, and add some extra 13th century fun into your weekend.
Thank you.
Funding method
Keep what you raise – this project will receive all pledges made