The Saxons return to Southend this weekend!

July 27, 2026

Travel back in time and wander through a living Anglo-Saxon re-enactment camp for traditional textiles and blacksmithing, birds of prey, medicine and cooking demonstrations, and interactive combat displays.

If you're feeling inspired, try your hand at axe throwing to see if you have what it takes to be an Anglo-Saxon warrior for the kingdom of Essex!

Spend some time in the tent of tales for some lively, traditional storytelling, a popular Anglo Saxon pastime, proving that good stories are truly timeless, before exploring the weekend's other family friendly activities around the grounds including crafting, games, stalls and face painting.

Unearth the secrets of Saxon Southend in the archaeology tent, hear how archaeologists discovered one of the most important Anglo-Saxon finds ever made in Britain just outside the park, and get stuck into our own DIY dig activity to see what you can find.

Take a break for a close encounter of the cheesy kind with an amazingly oozy toastie from Melt, who will be serving up food including grilled toasties, baps and fresh pastries as well as a range of hot and cold drinks.

Pop inside the Priory to learn how the site transformed from the small Anglo-Saxon settlement that would eventually become Southend on Sea, to a medieval monastery, then a Victorian family home and finally into the museum of today. While you're exploring, see if you can solve the tricky treasure trail, with things to find and problems to solve around the event.

Adult and child tickets available, and children under 3 go free!

Event runs 11-4 on both Saturday and Sunday. Arrival is anytime from 11am, and last entry is at 3pm.