THE sounds of musket and cannon fire will ring out across Colchester this summer, as the English Civil War Society stages an epic re-enactment of the 73-day siege of Colchester.

In what is one of the biggest events of its kind to take place in Colchester, the weekend will see more than 500 re-enactors descend upon the city for a weekend of living history, pageantry and excitement.

In Collaboration with Colchester Council, the event has been organised as part of the city’s Year of Celebration to commemorate its modern city status, acknowledging the 375th anniversary of the siege.

Gazette: A large portion of the battle was fought on East Hill, with the Old Siege House remembering the historic event by marking the musket holes with red hoops.A large portion of the battle was fought on East Hill, with the Old Siege House remembering the historic event by marking the musket holes with red hoops.

The event is free to attend, giving residents the opportunity to meet the protagonists, witness battles between Royalists and Parliamentarians and explore the encampments to understand more about this tragic period in Colchester’s history.

The main events will take place in Castle Park, but throughout the weekend pop up events will take place at various locations across the city, drawing in visitors and residents alike.

Pam Cox, Colchester Council's portfolio holder for culture andheritage, said: “The Siege Spectacular promises to be an action-packed, immersive experience.

“Re-telling one of the most tragic periods in Colchester’s history it will bring the story to a new generation to understand and commemorate the cities rich history.

“For now, please save the date and further details will be released over the coming months, including a detailed programme and maps of what’s happening where in the city.”

 David Molloy, of the English Civil War Society, said: “The siege was a pivotal moment in Colchester’s history and an important event in the Civil War.

“The society is delighted to be bringing the 17th century to present day Colchester this August and we look forward to informing and entertaining the city by retelling this decisive moment in Colchester’s History.”

The siege of Colchester occurred in the summer of 1648 when the English Civil War reignited in several areas of Britain. 

Colchester found itself in the thick of the unrest when a Royalist army on its way through East Anglia to raise support for the King, was attacked by Lord-General Thomas Fairfax at the head of a Parliamentary force.

The Parliamentarians' initial attack forced the Royalist army to retreat behind the town's walls with the seige lasting 11 weeks. until the Royalists admitted defeat.

The re-enactment event will take place across the weekend of August 19 and 20. For tickets and more information, visit bit.ly/422bKGg.