Tudor Merriment: Firepower, Swordsmanship, Music and Dancing
15 & 16 August 2026
The Suffolk Free Company and Myal Pyper transport us back in time to the Tudor era, giving us a unique insight into the lives and festivities of the period.
An immersive and engaging living history experience for all ages. Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply looking for a fun and educational day out, this celebration of Tudor and Elizabethan life is not to be missed.
Step Into the Tudor Period and the Elizabethan Era
In England and Wales, the Tudor period occurred between 1485 and 1603, including the Elizabethan era. The Tudor period coincides with the reign of the House of Tudor, which began with the accession of Henry VII and ended with the death of Elizabeth I.
As you explore the Museum site, you’ll find three buildings from this time - Astleham Manor Cottage, Northolt Barn and Arborfield Barn.
The expert re-enactors of the Suffolk Free Company will bring the 16th century to live during this living history event. Explore the encampment and see what is being eaten, drunk, made, and mended. Find out what your life might have been like during the reign of Queen Elizabeth as you explore the encampment and see what is being eaten, drunk, made, and mended.
Music and Dancing with Myal Pyper
Weapons Displays
Watch displays of firepower in the arena, featuring the black powder weapons of the day. Showing just how effective they can be at defeating that old adversary, the cabbage!
Discover the meaning behind the phrase “cloak and dagger” during swordsmanship demonstrations. Hear the swords clang as expert weapons handlers thrill the audience with their skills.
Take Part in a Tudor Military Drill
Meet the Musicians
Joining the Suffolk Free Company for this event will be Myal Pyper - a bagpiper and drummer specialising in Medieval, Tudor and early Stuart music.
Meet the Re-enactors
The Suffolk Free Company are one of the UK's leading Tudor Living History groups, recreating what it might have been like to live in the 16th century. As Historical interpreters they use an evidence based approach to presenting life in Tudor Times.
Event Information
This is a Premium Admission Day
Free entry for COAM Annual Members
Activities take place between 11am and 4pm
Live Firing Displays and Weapons Demonstrations
There will be a disabled viewing area in the arena
General Museum Information
With 45 acres at your disposal, there is plenty to explore, including woodlands and an exciting adventure playground
Dogs on short leads are welcome but must not go inside residential buildings
Light lunches, drinks, cakes and snacks are available to purchase from our Skippings Barn
Sensory backpacks are available to borrow (subject to availability)
Mobility scooters are available to borrow (subject to availability - pre-booking is advised)
Lots of free parking
Photography and filming may take place during this event for the Museum archives and publicity. These photographs and video footage may appear in promotional or educational materials including on our websites, social media pages, newsletters, or in newspapers and magazines. If you do not wish to be photographed, please speak to the photographer.