Sunday 12 July

Nature Crunch

A talk by Satish Kumar
World-renowned environmentalist, Satish Kumar, visits Acton Court with a talk for our times. Satish is well known as an author and broadcaster; he is the editor of Resurgence magazine and recently presented the highly acclaimed BBC Natural World programme about Dartmoor. Satish brings eastern philosophy into a western context with seamless elegance. Satish Kumar will be available to sign copies of his books, which will be for sale on the day.

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Saturday 25 July

Sunday 26 July

Hungerford Household

Henry VIII themed event

In the 500th anniversary year of Henry VIII’s accession to the throne, Hungerford Household brings living history to Acton Court as members of the household, from servants to gentry, prepare for the King’s visit. Costumed re-enactors demonstrate their skills as they go about the business of preparing food, crafts and entertainments making ready for the arrival of the court. Visitors will have the opportunity to talk with the characters and participate in a variety of activities. Hungerford Household is a re-enactment group with over fifteen years experience of bringing the Tudor period to life at historic houses and museums throughout the UK. Acton Court provides a perfect setting for this exciting event. An entertainment for all the family.

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Saturday 8 August

The Tudor Tailor

How do you see Henry VIII? Bloated despot? Incorrigible womaniser? Founder of the Church of England? Composer of Greensleeves? Fashion icon of the 16th century? Take a look at Great Harry through the eyes of two of his employees: Jane the Fool, who served Henry’s wives and daughter as an entertainer, and Elynor Manners, Countess of Rutland, who was a lady-in-waiting to three of Henry’s queens.
Lucy Capito and Caroline Johnson, costumed as these two royal servants, build a picture of the king as they dress him from lawn shirt to ostrich-plumed hat, and offer different contemporary views of Henry as a vibrant personality and a royal master.

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