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Travel back in time as Edinburgh's Grassmarket Area returns to Middle Ages

19th September 2013 Print
Children making medieval costumes

Edinburgh’s Grassmarket is set for a medieval spectacle later this month hosting two days of family events commemorating the 500th anniversary of the Battle of Flodden over the weekend of 28 & 29 September.

On both days, re-enactment group Medieval Realm will give locals and visitors a taste of life in the Middle Ages showing what family life was like, talking about health and diseases as well as the politics of the day.

On Sunday, medieval battles will be re-enacted in the centre of the Grassmarket, bringing 500 year old history to life right in front of the crowd.

Visitors can even try their hand at a family-friendly version of the ancient art of longbow archery under the supervision of experts from Ancient Armouries.

Costume maker Sara Best will be inviting local kids to make their own medieval clothes, ready to take away. Sunday will see local school children parade their own medieval banners from 1 to 2pm, and they will also be given the chance to dress in medieval garb.

“We’re really looking forward to bringing a piece of history into the area over the weekend”, says Georgia Artus, Greater Grassmarket Business Improvement District (BID) project manager.

“The area was a hub of life during the 16th century with merchants, tradesmen and farmers all meeting here to sell their wares and it has remained a thriving centre for independent trading in Edinburgh ever since. It’s fantastic to be able to travel back to these times and get a feeling for what life would have been like.”

Residents and visitors will also be treated to medieval music and dancing during the weekend, adding to the historic atmosphere. Many local businesses are also working on specific themed offers to help celebrate the anniversary, such as free sweet treats for costume workshop participants from Helios Fountain.

Even some of the stalls of the weekly Farmers Market, held on Saturdays from 10am -5pm, will be dressed in line with the theme and offer treats popular in the Middle Ages.

Celebrations kick off at 10am on both Saturday and Sunday, finishing at 5pm.

More Photos - Click to Enlarge

Children making medieval costumes Medieval performers bringing history to life