Furness Abbey Fellowship, a local small heritage charity is holding the 8 th Medieval Fair on Saturday 3rd September 2022. This is an exciting event because it marks our 10th anniversary for FAF and we will be releasing a book written by committee members Ron Creer and Gill Jepson, illustrated by Janet Pickering. The book will be on sale at the fair and Gill, Ron and Janet will be on hand to sign copies. It is called “It’s Our Abbey” and is about the people through the ages who were involved with and lived at the abbey, as well as those who are passionate about it. Its retail price is £12.99 but it can be bought for a special launch price of £10 on the fair day.
We will be welcoming our signature group of historical re-enactors, Iron Shepherds, who show us what it was like to live in the early 12 th century when the abbey was first built. Additionally, we see a return of Trouvere Medieval Minstrels who will be entertaining us with a range of music and songs from the middle ages. Brother John will be dispensing his herbal and medical knowledge in the Buttery and telling us how people cured ailments in monastic times. Bjarni the Viking Monier will be in attendance too, demonstrating how coinage is made.
York Levy, re-enactors showing life in the 15 th century; towards the end of the life of the abbey join us again and we are excited to see their mummer’s play and demonstrations. Crafts will be demonstrated by Owen Jones making swill baskets, John Harrison wood turning, Tony Saunders bow making and our friends from Furness Spinners and Weavers.
We have a local history tent with Barrow Archives, Greenlane Archaeology and Friends of Dalton Castle.
Furness Abbey Fellowship will have their own stall with some interesting activities, including shield painting and Gill Jepson, local author, will have her new book “Furness Abbey Through Time” available. Sadly, our friends at Abbey Mill Café who usually supply snacks are unable to do so this year, but we look forward to welcoming Vintage Tea Rooms to take up the baton. Mansergh Hall Farm Hog Roast will be here for those who prefer a hot snack.
This event is funded by FAF and we would ask for a donation of £2.50 per adult to allow us to re- invest for next year’s fair. We work in partnership with English Heritage who assist us and allow us to put on this great event and we urge you to take a look at the amazing conservation work they have undertaken recently. The Visitor Centre has a wide range of books, toys, souvenirs and games; as well as a huge range of ice cream and confectionary.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION: The abbey car park is designated for Blue Badge Holders and drop off only. We are running two shuttle buses in conjunction with our friends at the Dock Museum throughout the day. This is a limited free service from 10am until final bus at 4.45pm from the abbey. There are no other stops.
Usual entry fee applies: English Heritage Members and local residents are free (on production of a valid Barrow Council Tax Bill and photo ID).
www.furnessabbeyfellowship.org
