A soaking in the stocks!

Medieval Fun at the Canterbury Tales

In medieval times they were used to punish people who had committed petty crimes, but it was all smiles at The Canterbury Tales at the weekend (June 14) as visitors lined up to have their photos taken in the stocks.

It was just one of the activities laid on by the popular visitor attraction as part of this year’s free Medieval Fun Day.

The churchyard to the rear of the St Margaret’s Street attraction also played host to old favourites such as mead tasting and a bouncy castle, as well as face painting.

Visitors picked up a few tips on sword fighting at the Knights School, and got to grips with historic armour and weaponry on display courtesy of the Free Men of the Blean, a re-enactment society which gave demonstrations throughout the day.

Lyndsay Ridley, the attraction’s general manager, said: “It was a really great day for the whole family with a fantastic fun atmosphere. The stocks were particularly popular and will be back again soon!

“Although the event was free, we were fund-raising for Pilgrims Hospices throughout the day and I’d like to thank visitors for their donations.”

The Canterbury Tales provides a great introduction to the cathedral city and its famous literary connection as well as being a hugely entertaining day out for the whole family. Having welcomed more than two million visitors from all over the world, The Canterbury Tales remains one of Kent’s ‘must see’ attractions. Visit www.canterburytales.org.uk for more information.

Admission prices for the attraction are £8.75 adults, £6.75 children (aged 5-15), and £7.75 concessions. At certain times of year and for certain events, rates may vary. The Canterbury Tales is operated by Continuum Leading Attractions, who manage a host of visitor attractions around the country and most recently launched Coronation Street: The Tour in Manchester.