Two free history events drew in the crowds on 26 and 27 July in the east London borough. 

Residents were able to step back in time over two days of historical themed entertainments taking place in Barking and in Dagenham. 

Over a thousand people attended the two events, which included battle re-enactments, medieval music making, history talks and more. 

On the Saturday, Barking Abbey Ruins played host to a royal audience with Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn, battling knights and open-air theatre performances. While bell-ringing and Medieval Workshops took place in the parish church. On Sunday, visitors to Valence House Museum could also experience Medieval cooking demonstrations, minstrel music, birds of prey and archery. 

The events coincided with the launch of a new exhibition at Valence House called 'Ancient Abbey', about the history of Barking Abbey and new archaeological research. This will run until the end of 2025 and is open to all and free to attend. There will also be an opportunity to learn more about Barking’s Ancient Abbey at an academic symposium, taking place in Barking Learning Centre on Friday 5 September, for further details contact Valencehousemuseum@lbbd.gov.uk.

Cllr Saima Ashraf, Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Community Leadership and Engagement, said: “It was great to see so many residents come along to both days of the fantastic Ancient Abbey Festival. 

“What I think is really special is that so many will go away with a greater appreciation of our borough’s rich and influential history.

"A huge thank you to everyone who took part but especially the volunteers whose hard work over the two days meant everyone had a really special time."

The events were organised by the council and Be First, with funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund and Weston Homes. 

They were facilitated by a dedicated group of volunteers who worked right across the weekend to make the events possible. 

Find out more about Valence House ⁠here.