Hosting Henry VIII
Living History Festival
An amazing day out full of jousting, falconry, music, food and family-fun.
Step into Tudor England as Hosting Henry VIII returns for a spectacular weekend of living history, family fun and royal entertainment.
Meet Henry VIII and notable figures from the Tudor court
Watch thrilling jousting displays
Marvel at falconry demonstrations
Learn Tudor dance
Enjoy Tudor music and theatre
Discover authentic food inspired by the King's original visit
Budding knights and adventurers can take part in hands-on activities, including mini-jousting, sword-fighting classes, archery, shield making and jester school.
What makes the experience even more special is that it is inspired by real events that unfolded at West Horsley Place in 1533, when Henry and Gertrude Courtenay welcomed King Henry VIII to the estate for four days of feasting, hunting and lavish entertainment.
Combining authentic history, live performance and family-friendly activities, Hosting Henry VIII promises an unforgettable summer day out for visitors of all ages.
Come and party like it's 1533. This is a multi‑sensory history experience that is not to be missed.
Brilliant day, we had great fun. A big thank you to all for organising such a great event. Loved meeting the king, the falconry and the jousting!
Fantastic family day out. The Tudor entertainment was all brilliant, lots for the kids too.
It was an absolutely fantastic day out! Jam packed with things to do! Jousting, falconry, sampling Tudor food, meeting the merrie folk...just brilliant.
There was so much to do and learn. Non stop from 10-5. Well done!
Gallery
Things to see and do
Step into history – Explore the Manor House’s Stone Hall with tapestries, herbs, music, and costumed hosts recreating a real and well-researched visit.
Immerse yourself in the story of the King's visit - Meet your hosts, West Horsley Place owners Henry and Gertrude Courtenay and their honoured guests like Thomas Cromwell. But take care! Many of them have secrets they wish to keep from the King!
Taste Tudor flavours – Sample dishes from the original 1533 menu.
Watch Henry VIII’s joust – See knights compete in authentic armour.
Experience Tudor falconry – Live hawking and falconry displays with birds, hounds, and expert falconers.
Watch Tudor Theatre - Melford Hys Companie, a talented troupe of Tudor re-enactors will heartily entertain you with music, dancing, plays, and even Tudor games like trapball.
Dance like it’s 1533 – Put your best step forward an join free Tudor dance lessons with live Tudor music.
Kids’ zone – There is plenty for children to enjoy. Get hand-on with interactive activities that bring history to life including mini-jousting, sword fighting classes, shield making, archery and Jester School.
Practical information
Dogs are allowed at this event but not inside the Manor House or walled gardens.
Access
The tarmacked carpark will be reserved for disabled parking and families with buggies. All other visitors will be directed to parking on grass when they arrive.
There will be accessible viewing areas at the falconry and jousting arenas reserved for disabled visitors. Please request a map of where these are when you arrive.
We have a golf buggy style vehicle which can be requested to transport disabled visitors across the site at this event (not suitable for wheelchair users who are unable to transfer between seats).
For access information please visit our Access Page.
