Volunteers are running a medieval feast complete with entertainment to take you back in time.
The event will raise funds for Lewes Priory Trust, the charity which looks after the site.
According to the Trust, Lewes Priory was often the site of feasts, even during the time of the Cluniac monks who were associated with hard work and austerity.
“Local dignitaries, lords and even royalty are known to have stayed at the Priory where the Prior would have extended lavish hospitality to his honoured guests,” said Kate Hickmott, one of the priory trust’s education officers.
Infamously, a feast took place on the eve of the Battle of Lewes on May 13, 1264.
Henry III’s soldiers drank and dined to such excess that they were not prepared when the Baron’s troops attacked the next morning. The King had to surrender after only one morning of fighting.
“Organisers of this year’s feast are expecting more genteel behaviour!” said Ms Hickmott.
The feast takes place at Southover Church, which will be “transformed” into a venue fit for a King, says Susan Murray, membership secretary at the trust.
Paddock Singers, a women’s choir based in Lewes, will perform rustic airs and madrigals to set the scene.
Proceeds from the event will be used to provide on-site education activities for local school children.
They will learn about the Priory, which was established in approximately 1081AD and was the first Cluniac priory in England.
The Priory is part of a network of Cluniac monasteries across Europe.
This network is bidding for UNESCO world heritage status over the next few years, and Ms Hickmott says this will put the priory firmly on the map.
The feast will be a hog roast with spiced apple and quince crumble and a glass of wine. Vegetarian and vegan options will also be available.
It will take place on Saturday, November 19, from 7.00pm to 10.30pm.
Those interested can book tickets here www.ticketsource.co.uk/Lewes-Priory-Trust, where bookings close on Friday, November 4.
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