Sound the fanfare and grab your knightly shield as Canterbury’s Medieval Family Trail returns on Saturday 4 July 2026. This year’s pageant puts a spotlight on Canterbury's links to the famous Bayeux Tapestry!
Knights, Normans and Needlework: Bayeux Tapestry-inspired Medieval Pageant returns to Canterbury on 4th July 2026
Free family-friendly fun for all ages (including Middle Ages!)
Canterbury’s hugely popular annual Medieval Pageant and Family Trail returns to the city’s historic streets and buildings on Saturday 4th July 2026 with a special edition inspired by the Bayeux Tapestry - the world-famous depiction of the Norman Conquest, thought to have been conceived and created in Canterbury nearly 1,000 years ago.
This year’s Medieval Pageant Parade is being replaced by a Pageantry Stage - running from 10am-5pm - featuring medieval market stalls and free family-friendly events including a battle stage with reenactments, live music, singing and dancing, short theatrical performances, and even a set of stocks - ideal for misbehaving family members.
The ever popular free Family Trail returns comprising 20 stops across the city, with displays and hands-on activities including:
You can even visit England’s oldest toilet! And did we mention a free chocolate coin for those who complete five or more trail stops?
*New for 2026 will be a Mini Medieval Parade. Children, adults and (well-behaved) pets will be invited to make their own homemade medieval costumes prior to the day, and then wear them on the Pageant Stage at 2.30pm. Whether a Norman knight, an English huscarl, or a pious pilgrim, this will be a great chance for you to show off your historic outfits.
Address
Medieval Pageant and Family Trail 2026
Across the City Centre
CT1
Contact
Links
