My Lords, Ladies and Gentle Folk of all ages from around the re-enacting world! It is our very great pleasure to invite you to Herstmonceux Castle. The place where HISTORY HAS NEVER BEEN SUCH FUN! From humble beginnings, the Festival has grown to become Britain's largest annual three day celebration of the colourful middle ages which each year attracts over one thousand medieval re-enactors, performers, musicians, artisans and craft workers from throughout Europe and more than thirty thousand visitors from around the world.

Living History Traders are true medieval purists; living the medieval period throughout the weekend, dressed completely in authentic medieval garb and trading authentic-style wares from authentic points, giving the illusion that one really has stepped back in time! Indeed, many have no wares to sell, preferring to live and demonstrate life as it was all those years ago.

It is acknowledged that Living History Traders and Demonstrators mostly do what they do for the love of their trade and not necessarily for financial gain and therefore no charge is made for participating in England's Medieval Festival. On occasions it has been difficult to confirm the category of a trader due to lack of information offered therefore, in an effort to ensure every-one is placed in the correct area, please complete the online form giving full details of the trading/demonstrating stall or tent and the goods being offered. Failure to do so may result in locations being changed last minute.

There are several designated Living History trading and camping areas at this year's Festival.

A medieval village springs to life with the centre being a stage for performers. Individual Living History Traders and Demonstrators are placed throughout the Village with the Medieval Traders. The Village is open to the public for trading throughout the day.

Those trading and participating within a re-enactment group must register upon arrival with the MSS who are designating Living History encampments. These areas are roped off during the siege/battle and for this period inaccessible to the public, enabling those who wish to to participate in the siege.