The Bosworth Medieval Festival returns next week.

The two-day event – which attracts thousands of visitors, re-enactors and traders from across the UK and beyond – will take place on Saturday August 17 and Sunday August 18 at the Leicestershire County Council-run Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre.

It features battle re-enactments by the Wars of the Roses Federation – including a 20-minute re-creation of the Battle of Bosworth on both afternoons with hundreds of re-enactors at the family-friendly event close to Coalville.

There will also be large living history encampments to explore, archery, cannon fire demonstrations, medieval falconry demonstrations, musicians, Knight School, a storyteller, guided tours, author talks, hands-on games and competitions for children, as well as entry to the award-winning exhibition.

Destrier's horse riders will return with their fascinating Death of Richard III presentation narrated by Rupert Hammerton-Fraser.

They will also play a major role in the Battle of Bosworth re-enactments, representing Richard and Henry and their standard bearers on the battlefield.

Councillor Christine Radford, cabinet member for heritage, leisure and arts said: "Bosworth Medieval Festival is a fantastic event that's atmospheric, exciting and entertaining, and we're honoured to be hosting it later this month. 

"The festival attracts people from all over the UK and further afield and the heritage team work extremely hard in the build-up to the event to ensure the public experience a memorable weekend.

"With this year marking the 50th anniversary of the Heritage Centre, we are certain the festival will be one of the highlights of the summer.  

"Leicestershire has a rich and proud heritage to showcase, and this Bosworth event does just that. I'd encourage residents to take advantage of the great value for money tickets and spend the weekend taking in the medieval sights, experiences and much more."

A wide range of food concessions will be available on site, and there is a large and welcoming real ale bar.

Tickets are valid for the whole weekend, which means that visitors can come on either or both days for no extra cost.

The Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre, the 1485 Tithe Barn Café and toilets are only open to festival ticket holders for the weekend.

Tickets are on sale online HERE or can be purchased by calling 01455 290429.

They can also be bought on the gate during the weekend of the Bosworth Medieval Festival, but pre-booking to secure tickets is advised.