THE highly anticipated event, which typically draws in hundreds of residents each year, has seen a remarkable growth in success and popularity.

Colchester's annual Medieval Fayre and Oyster Fayre returned with a bang last weekend, promising attendees a bigger and better experience than ever before.

Gazette: Colchester Medieval and Oyster Fayre (Steve Brading)Colchester Medieval and Oyster Fayre (Steve Brading) (Image: Steve Brading)

Gazette: Colchester Medieval and Oyster Fayre (Picture: Steve Brading)Colchester Medieval and Oyster Fayre (Picture: Steve Brading) (Image: Steve Brading)

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Dubbed as "a tour de force in medievalism that’s the biggest of its type in Europe" by The Sunday Times, the Medieval Fayre and Oyster Market made its triumphant comeback to Colchester after celebrating the city's status.

Organizers were thrilled to showcase the last original performing Mummers play in Britain, a significant highlight of the festival.Gazette: Colchester Medieval and Oyster Fayre (Picture: Steve Brading)Colchester Medieval and Oyster Fayre (Picture: Steve Brading) (Image: Steve Brading)Gazette: Colchester Medieval and Oyster Fayre (Picture: Steve Brading)Colchester Medieval and Oyster Fayre (Picture: Steve Brading) (Image: Steve Brading)

Donn Quinn, the director and organizer, expressed his pride in having them at the event, stating, "We are very proud to have them at our festival."


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This year, the festival expanded its offerings to include ten entire societies of knights and fighters.

Skilled knights, fighters, and re-enactors from various clubs and societies left guests in awe of their impressive displays.Gazette: Colchester Medieval and Oyster Fayre (Picture: Steve Brading)Colchester Medieval and Oyster Fayre (Picture: Steve Brading) (Image: Steve Brading)Gazette: Colchester Medieval and Oyster Fayre (Picture: Steve Brading)Colchester Medieval and Oyster Fayre (Picture: Steve Brading) (Image: Steve Brading)

In addition to the historical performances, attendees had the opportunity to immerse themselves in medieval campsite living history, try on medieval armour and costumes for free, and enjoy a delightful puppet show specifically designed for children during the event at Lower Castle Park.

Gazette: Colchester Medieval and Oyster Fayre (Picture: Steve Brading)Colchester Medieval and Oyster Fayre (Picture: Steve Brading) (Image: Steve Brading)Gazette: Colchester Medieval and Oyster Fayre (Picture: Steve Brading)Colchester Medieval and Oyster Fayre (Picture: Steve Brading) (Image: Steve Brading)