We are well-used to attending various 1940’s weekend events to photograph people in genuine vintage costumes, but this was the first time we have visited Tutbury Castle. Living history groups demonstrated what life was like during the war years. Because of the Covid-19 restrictions it was a scaled down version. Due to social distancing measures, there was a limit on the number of tickets sold and at £3.50 the concession price was really good value. Everything took place in the open air so we felt quite safe.
Tutbury Castle sits overlooking the winding River Dove not far from Burton on Trent. The site has been occupied since the Stone Age and the castle itself was built in 1071 by the Norman conquerors. It was one of the prisons of Mary Queen of Scots, where a plot was made which led to her bloody execution. Over the centuries the castle was visited by many English kings, being besieged, destroyed and rebuilt several times. Today the dramatic ruins are the setting for many events throughout the year.
The World War II enactors were happy to pose for photographs. We recognised some familiar faces wearing different costumes than at previous events. Within the grounds there is a Tudor garden and archaelogical excavations. The beautiful pink chestnut, which was in full bloom, was originally planted by the Queen in 1958. There were spectacular views across the beautiful Derbyshire hills, so it was well worth the visit.
