A free session of medieval family fun is to take place in the shadow of Sunderland’s historic Hylton Castle.

The children’s playpark at Craigavon Road – located close to the 14th-century monument – will host an afternoon of medieval-themed activities between 11.00 am and 4.00 pm on Sunday 26th May.

The Medieval Mayhem event will feature costumed characters, craft workshops, ferret racing, woodturning displays and exhibitions of historic artefacts. There will be traditional games – such as tug-of-war, quoits and wheelbarrow races – as well as archery and weapons displays.

For a small fee, you can even enjoy a Middle-Ages-style hog roast.

Medieval Mayhem is being organised by Sunderland City Council’s Heritage Team, Hylton Castle Project Board and Hylton Castle Trust.

Fiona Brown, Sunderland City Council’s director of neighbourhoods, said, “This fun, family event is a celebration of our city’s local cultural heritage, and allows us to demonstrate the massive part Hylton Castle has played in the development of our community, the city and the region.”

“We hope people from across Sunderland and the local community will come along to support and enjoy the day and get a flavour of the kind of programme that will soon be hosted in the fully restored building and grounds of Hylton Castle when it re-opens to the public as a new cultural, visitor and education centre later this year.”

Medieval Mayhem’s activities will be scheduled throughout the day, with visitors welcome to drop in as they please.

The public are asked to note that there are no parking facilities at the site, but cars can be parked at Castleview Academy and the Bunnyhill Centre, which are both within walking distance.

To learn more about Medieval Mayhem, please go to https://hyltoncastle.org.uk/events/medieval-mayhem-day.

Hylton Castle was the seat of the Hylton Family from just after the Norman Conquest until 1746. The castle – a grade-one-listed building – has recently undergone work to turn it into a community facility and visitor attraction, complete with classrooms, a café and space for exhibitions and events.

(Featured image courtesy of stan adie, from Flickr Creative Commons.)


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