Heritage Open Days returns with battle re-enactments and celebration of technology heritage
Re-enactors will soon be taking over the streets of Upton to commemorate one of the final battles of the English Civil War.
As part of the celebrations for Heritage Open Days, held from 9 to 18 September, Malvern Hills District Council is working in partnership with Worcester Re-enactors to help commemorate the Battle of Upton which took place on 28 August 1651.
The re-enactment will take place on Saturday, 10 September, from 10am-5pm and will include hosting a Civil War encampment in The Pepperpot church grounds.
English Civil War soldiers will be marching through the streets of Upton upon Severn, as well as doing pike drills and musket firing which will take place at specific times during the day.
Heritage Open Days is a national celebration of England's heritage and this year's theme is 'Astounding Inventions', with a series of local events being co-ordinated by Malvern Civic Society.
Whether it's transporting visitors back to the industrial revolution, highlighting the legacy of a local inventor, or showcasing cutting-edge innovations, there will be plenty to see and do.
Events taking place across the Malvern Hills District will include walks, talks, pop-up exhibitions, live music, markets and tours.
Amongst the talks will be 'An A to Z of Innovation here on Planet Earth', 'Surprising Inventions from the Malvern Scientists' and 'How World War II was won from the Playing Fields of Malvern'.
A Medieval Pageant will be held in Kyre Park, Tenbury Wells, which will commemorate the Battle of Mortimers Cross with displays and demonstrations, music and a living history camp.
As well as this, there will be a special unveiling of a plaque to commemorate The Lees off Thirlstane Road and the internationally important research that was carried out in the huts that once covered the area.
Roger Sutton, from Malvern Civic Society, said: "The Malvern Civic Society are pleased to work with Malvern Hills District Council to highlight what the area has to offer as part of national Heritage Open Days".
Brian Bullock, from Worcester Re-enactors, said: "Worcester Re-enactors will be at the Pepperpot with a 17th Century Living History camp, pike drill display and Musket display, including firing. Upton played its part just before the final battle of the British Civil Wars with a battle to remove royalist troops under the command of Col Massey that had garrisoned Upton to deny access to Parliamentary forces over the bridge. We welcome all to visit us during the day and get a feel for what it would have been like to have been in Upton on that date."
Cllr Daniel Walton, Portfolio Holder for Economic Development and Tourism at Malvern Hills District Council, said: "Heritage Open Days is a great opportunity for us to celebrate our district and the wonderful landmarks we are lucky to enjoy. This year there will be plenty of exciting events to enjoy across the town centres so why not go along and see what's on offer".
Most events are free during Heritage Open Days, please visit www.visitthemalverns.org/hods for more information and to book.
