Penshurst Place will step back into its Tudor past this September with a new weekend of living history, as Tudor characters and re-enactors bring the sights and sounds of the 16th century to life in the grounds of the historic Kent estate once owned by King Henry VIII.
Taking place on Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 September, the new Tudor Re-enactment Weekend will see The Companye of Merrie Folke establish a 16th-century encampment in the picnic area at Penshurst Place, with around 15–20 costumed characters recreating life as it might have been in 1528, when Henry VIII owned the 2,500-acre estate.
Visitors will find the King’s staff and gentry going about their daily business as if their King was off on a day’s hunting on the surrounding estate – or perhaps on a secret visit to nearby Hever Castle to court Anne Boleyn, whose family lived there at the time.
Rather than a staged performance, the weekend will offer an immersive glimpse into Tudor life, with the characters remaining in role throughout the day as they carry out the everyday duties and activities of Henry VIII’s household and court.
Among those they may encounter will be gentry ladies and gentlemen, a scribe, barber surgeon, cook and men-at-arms, alongside gamesters, musicians and puppeteers – and even a plague charm maker. Visitors will be able to watch the characters and chat with them informally to discover more about their work, skills and daily lives during Henry VIII’s reign.
The setting has a genuine connection with the scene being brought to life. Penshurst Place became Crown property in 1521 and was used by Henry VIII as a hunting lodge and base for visits to Anne Boleyn at nearby Hever Castle. The estate later passed to his son Edward VI, who gifted Penshurst Place to Sir William Sidney in 1552, beginning the Sidney family’s association with the estate that continues today.
The Tudor Re-enactment Weekend runs from 10am–4.30pm on both days and is included with general garden admission to Penshurst Place, allowing visitors to combine the event with access to the historic gardens, Adventure Playground, Toy Museum and Woodland Trail. For more information, visit https://www.penshurstplace.com/whats-on/events-and-activities/2026-09/.
Wealden Times Pop-Up Fair Returns for Autumn
The previous day, Friday 11 September, Penshurst Place will host the Wealden Times Pop-Up Fair for the second time this year, bringing together 33 independent brands for a one-day autumn shopping event.
Running from 10am–4pm, the fair will feature fashion, jewellery, homeware, gifts, artisan food and more, with exhibitors located within the historic rooms of Penshurst Place. Tickets also include access to the House and Gardens.
Two exclusive garden tours with Penshurst Place’s Head Gardener will be available during the day, offering an opportunity to discover more about the history, planting and seasonal highlights of the gardens. Places are available on a first come, first served basis when booking an entry ticket.
The Wealden Times Pop-Up Fair is a third-party event hosted by Penshurst Place. Tickets cost £14 and must be booked in advance through the Wealden Times, with timed entry at 10am or 12 noon. For more information and to book tickets, visit https://wealdentimes-fair.co.uk/autumn-pop-up/.
Event Information
Tudor Re-enactment Weekend
Saturday 12 & Sunday 13 September 2026 | 10am–4.30pm
Included with general garden admission
Characters provided by The Companye of Merrie Folke
More information: https://www.penshurstplace.com/whats-on/events-and-activities/2026-09/
Wealden Times Pop-Up Fair
Friday 11 September 2026 | 10am–4pm
Tickets: £14
Timed entry at 10am or 12 noon
Advance booking required via the Wealden Times: https://wealdentimes-fair.co.uk/autumn-pop-up/
For further information about visiting Penshurst Place, visit www.penshurstplace.com.
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