8:20am Saturday 4th September 2010
By Simon Moss
HISTORY came alive at Basing House when the former Tudor palace marked its grand reopening with a bang.
The fields of Old Basing shuddered under the footsteps of an advancing army as historical re-enactors played out the Civil War siege that left the Tudor stronghold in ruins.
More than 1,000 members of The Sealed Knot descended on the former home of the Marquess of Winchester for the three-day event last weekend, teaching visitors about the significant struggle that took place in the borough between 1643 and 1645.
Visitors were taught traditional games, how to cook 17th century food and educated in sword-fighting skills, by members of the famous re-enactment group.
The soldiers also marched through Basingstoke town centre, much to the surprise of Saturday shoppers.
There were two mighty battles on Sunday and Monday between Cromwell’s Parliamentarians and the Marquess’ Royalists with plenty of action to keep the crowds entertained.
The new facilities at Basing House ruins and its associated old buildings include a new visitor centre, exhibition and a sound-and-light show in the battle-scarred Great Barn. The £2.3m revamp was thanks to funding from Hampshire County Council, Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council and a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund. The aim is to provide a better experience for visitors.
Alan Turton, curator of Basing House, said: “There are lots of people who have never been to Basing House and I am sure they will find the trip well worthwhile.
“It is one of the joys of this job to see people visiting and enjoying the site. I have been able to speak to many who have told me how good it has been.
“Not enough people know that there is this fantastic historical site right on their doorstep so events like this are great in getting people engaged with their local history.”
Simon Davies, who played John Paulet, the Marquess of Winchester, throughout the weekend, said he had enjoyed taking part in the drama.
“It has been extremely well-received,” he told The Gazette.
“Everyone has shown a great interest in the events that happened here and thankfully we have had good weather too – unfortunately it doesn’t end so well for me!”
© Copyright 2001-2012 Newsquest Media Group
http://www.basingstokegazette.co.uk/trade_directory/