Wellingborough’s annual Medieval Festival helped attract over 9,000 extra people into the town centre, a 40 per cent increase in visitors compared to the previous weekend, footfall figures have revealed.
An entire programme of entertainment and activities was laid on for families across the weekend of June 18 and 19, including a falconry display, a dance troupe performance and medieval characters who mingled and interacted with visitors.
Festival goer Thomas Laing from Wellingborough said: “We have never been to the event before, but we heard such great things about it last year that we
Wellingborough’s annual Medieval Festival helped attract over 9,000 extra people into the town centre, a 40 per cent increase in visitors compared to the previous weekend, footfall figures have revealed.
An entire programme of entertainment and activities was laid on for families across the weekend of June 18 and 19, including a falconry display, a dance troupe performance and medieval characters who mingled and interacted with visitors.
Festival goer Thomas Laing from Wellingborough said: “We have never been to the event before, but we heard such great things about it last year that we thought we’d come and we’re so glad we did as it’s been great.
“The kids have really enjoyed themselves and there’s been so much to see and do, it was definitely a great way to spend the afternoon.”
Sally Webster, who travelled to the event from Rushden with her family, said: “The children have really enjoyed the day. Not only has it been fun for all of us, but the kids have learnt quite a lot about the medieval period which is a bonus.
“We were very impressed with all the activities which were laid on and my daughter loved the fact she got to cuddle a real ferret.”
The fourth festival was supported by the Northamptonshire Community Foundation’s Compton Fund and was organised by the Wellingborough Business Improvement District (BID).
The BID is paid for by businesses and works to promote the town centre through the Discover Wellingborough campaign.
BID Manager John Cable said: “Since we introduced the Medieval Festival four years ago it has become one of the leading attractions in the Wellingborough town activity calendar.
“Speaking to local business owners and visitors this weekend we know that people now look forward to the event every year. There’s a real sense of community spirit here too as everyone rallies round to help make it a fun and completely authentic festival.
“By encouraging people to visit the town centre we are reminding them of all the wonderful features Wellingborough has to offer, such as all the independent traders, green spaces, historic buildings and free parking.”
Not only did local traders embrace the theme throughout the weekend, but the Golden Lion, based on Sheep Street, also got in on the action by hosting a medieval banquet.
They served two special menus traditional menus which included game terrine, pigeon breast, venison and English herb salmon.