Huge Medieval fair to bring Rochdale’s history to life this summer

Wednesday, 27 May 2026 17:28

By David Murphy

Rochdale town centre will be transformed into a Medieval village this June as a large scale event featuring combat displays, music, activities and historical reenactments takes over the area.

Rochdale Medieval Fayre will run across Rochdale Town Hall, Town Hall Square and the newly restored Broadfield Park Slopes over the weekend of 6 and 7 June.

The free event aims to celebrate Rochdale’s historic roots by transporting visitors back to the Medieval period, with activities designed for families and history enthusiasts.

Around 80 actors from the 12th century living history group Historia Normannis will recreate daily life from the period, including combat displays, Medieval law courts and demonstrations showing life between 1066 and around 1485.

A full Medieval encampment will also be created with fashion displays, music and hands on activities including archery and coin striking.

The event forms part of the National Lottery Heritage Fund backed Broadfield Park Slopes restoration project and organisers say it also reflects Rochdale’s own Medieval story.

The Broadfield Park Slopes area, behind Rochdale Town Hall, formed part of the borough’s Medieval centre, while nearby St Chad’s Church has Saxon origins.

Rochdale was also home to a castle built following the Norman conquest in 1066 near Castle Hill close to the present day Sparth Bottoms area. Although the castle no longer survives, younger visitors will be able to help build a large cardboard version during the event.

Visitors can also take part in print making workshops, Medieval manuscript activities and dressing up experiences.

Food inspired by the period will be available at the Martlet restaurant inside Rochdale Town Hall, while refreshments including drinks, cakes and sandwiches will also be served from the Zodiac bar during the weekend.

Sue Smith said, “This event will offer a unique experience for our residents and visitors.”

She added, “The historic heart of Rochdale town centre will be transformed into a Medieval village and people will be totally immersed with music and live demonstrations set to bring this fascinating period into glorious life and create a living museum for two days.”