Worcester has taken on a bold new look as a major public art project commemorating the English Civil War reaches its first milestone.
A set of fifteen hand-painted ‘trial run’ historical banners are now proudly displayed along Copenhagen Street, celebrating Worcester’s pivotal role in the conflict between 1642 and 1651. (St Wulfstan side completed this afternoon, The Old Fire Station to be completed on Sunday morning).
Worcester is the first city in the country to instigate such a “Living History” project, bringing together art, education and public history in a unique and engaging way.
The Worcester Civil War Banners Project, led by The Battle of Worcester Society in collaboration with local schools and colleges, has transformed part of the city centre into a living tribute to its Civil War legacy. Each banner is a meticulously researched reproduction of regimental colours used during the war, created by students from Worcester Sixth Form College, Royal Grammar School Worcester, and Heart of Worcestershire College.
Commemorative Parade and Drumhead Service – Saturday 23 August 2025
To further mark Worcester’s Civil War legacy, a commemorative parade and drumhead service, organised by the Sealed Knot and The Battle of Worcester Society will take place on Saturday 23 August 2025. Some 100 17th-century reenactors will take part in the event, bringing the streets of Worcester to life.
Schedule:
- 2:50 pm – Parade forms up in Broad Street
- 3:00 pm – March through the High Street
- 3:15 pm – Pause at the Guildhall, where the Mayor of Worcester (Councillor Matt Lamb) will join the procession
- 3:30 pm – March continues to Worcester Cathedral
- 3:40–4:00 pm – Commemoration service led by the Dean of Worcester Cathedral, Stephen Edwards
- 4:00 pm – Parade proceeds to Copenhagen Street, where the banners line the route
- 4:20 pm – Event concludes
This civic occasion offers a moment to reflect on those who lost their lives during the Civil Wars, and to experience Worcester’s newly installed banners in their historical and ceremonial context.
Sealed Knot at Bennett’s Farm – 24–25 August 2025
For those seeking a more immersive experience, The Sealed Knot will host a full living history weekend at Bennetts Willow Barn on Sunday 24 and Monday 25 August, from 10 am to 4 pm each day.
Titled Worcester Under Siege, the event will feature:
- Historical encampments
- Weapons displays and battlefield drills
- Demonstrations of 17th-century clothing and food
- Activities for children, including a treasure hunt
- Reenactments showcasing Civil War life and conflict
This family event offers an entertaining and educational complement to the banners and city-centre commemorations, bringing the sights, sounds and stories of the era vividly to life.
See further information at: https://bennettswillowbarn.co.uk/the-sealed-knot/
See further information at: https://bennettswillowbarn.co.uk/the-sealed-knot/
A City Reclaimed by History
From the first clash at Powick Bridge in 1642 to the final battle in 1651, Worcester’s role in the English Civil Wars (or War of the Three Kingdoms) is once again taking centre stage. The new banners, together with this month’s commemorative events, mark a significant step in reclaiming and celebrating the city’s remarkable past.
