09/08/2026
Here’s part two of our Tewkesbury Medieval Festival coverage.
After the amazing response to our first post, I’ve decided to focus this time on the thunderous sounds of the battle.
The festival is the largest free medieval gathering in Europe, drawing thousands of visitors to Gloucestershire every July. It honours those who fought at the 1471 Battle of Tewkesbury, a pivotal clash in the Wars of the Roses, and the reenactment takes place on part of the original battlefield.
Around 2,000 warriors take part, including armoured knights, archers, and men-at-arms. Together, they recreate the discipline of moving onto the field and the quick and violent descent into chaos.
Watching that many bodies in armour form up and advance is an entirely different experience from reading about it in a history book, and the most terrifying and unexpected part is the deafening noise.
Each hand-forged blade, piece of plate armour, and coat of mail has its own distinctive sound, and as large groups of fighters begin to move together, a rhythmic, metallic heartbeat rises from the field, over which you can hear the barked orders of commanders and the shouts of excitement. It's a powerful thing to watch.
Beyond the fighting, reenactors set up full encampments for the weekend, living as a medieval army with period crafts, camp life, and even families in tow. It’s this level of commitment that gives the festival its authenticity, and why we hope to keep coming back to document it.
Huge thanks again to everyone who told us to keep the photos coming. Follow along for more from the armoury and the field.
Tewkesbury Medieval Festival | La Mort Clothing | Battle of Tewkesbury