Wantage will once again celebrate its most famous son, King Alfred the Great, with Alfred Fest 2025. The free family-friendly event is filled with heritage, history and hands-on activities across the town on Sunday 26 October 2025 at Wantage Market Place, 11am–3pm.
The festival honours Alfred, Wantage’s most famous son, with a packed weekend of music, talks, tours and craft displays. From a showing of King Alfred the Great at Wildwood Cinema to weaving workshops, living history groups and the chance to see the famous Alfred Jewel up close, the event promises something for all ages.
Who Was Alfred the Great?
Alfred the Great (849–899) was one of England’s most remarkable early kings. Born in Wantage, he ruled Wessex and earned lasting fame for defending his kingdom against Viking invasions, laying the foundations for a unified England. Alfred also championed learning, law and justice, translating key texts into English and establishing schools. His vision of strong leadership combined with education and defence earned him the title “the Great”, the only English monarch to be remembered with that distinction.
Highlights Across the Weekend
Saturday 25 October
- 7.30pm – Special screening of King Alfred the Great at Wildwood (booking via 01235 424327).
Sunday 26 October – Main Day
Main Performing Area (West End Car Park)
- 11.00am – Wantage Silver Band (1hr)
- 11.00am & 1.00pm – Tour of Alfred’s Lost Palace (booking via andrea.yates@wantagetowncouncil.gov.uk)
- 12.00pm – Church procession & blessing at Alfred’s statue
- 12.45pm, 1.30pm, 2.15pm – Battle of Edington talks with Chas Jones (Battlefields Trust)
- 1.00pm – Talk on Old English with English Companions & Leela Bunce (Kith & Kin)
- 1.45pm – Fancy Dress Competition judged by the Mayor – Anglo-Saxon dress encouraged!
Market Place (11am–3pm)
- Historical and artisan stalls
- Craft demonstrations: weaving, fletching, wicker work
- Falconry display by Millets Falconry
- Handmade food and produce
King Alfred’s Head (Garden Barn / Upstairs Room)
- 2.00pm – Kith & Kin theatrical performance depicting Anglo-Saxon life (1hr)
Wantage Parish Church
- 12.30pm – Matt Nichol (Cotswold Archaeology): Early Saxon Activity at East Challow
- 1.30pm – Douglas Dale: Leader & Lawgiver – The Political Vision of Alfred
- 2.30pm – Deborah Jones: King Alfred and His Great Family
Vale & Downland Museum
- 11.00am–2.00pm – Children’s crafts: Anglo-Saxon brooches & Alfred Jewel colouring
- 11.30am & 1.30pm – Alfred storytime for children
- 11.00am–3.00pm – Display of the Alfred Jewel
- 1.30pm – Nicky Wade: Making the Alfred Jewel
Wildwood Cinema
- 3.00pm – Extra screening of King Alfred the Great
Travel & Sustainability
Organisers are encouraging visitors to walk, cycle or use public transport where possible to minimise the event’s carbon footprint. Public car parks are available at Portway, Mill Street Under Croft and Limborough Road.
Community Spirit
The event is supported by Wantage Town Council, local sponsors and history organisations including Regia Anglorum and the Dark Ages Society. Expect a vibrant atmosphere as the town centre comes alive with history, crafts, music and food – a day to celebrate both heritage and community.
At a Glance
- What: Alfred Fest 2025
- When: Sunday 26 October, 11am–3pm (with film screenings Sat 25 & Sun 26)
- Where: Wantage Market Place & venues across the town
- Entry: Free, some tours and screenings require booking
For more details go to: lovewantage.uk/alfred-fest
