WITLEY based Past Pleasures, the UK’s leading professional costumed live historical interpretation company is bringing some Christmas magic to Guildford Castle, on Sunday.

Visitors are invited to step back in time to experience a medieval Christmas, as Past Pleasures turns the clock back to 1347 and an encounter with King Edward III, Queen Philippa of Hainault and members of their court, who are known to have celebrated Christmas at Guildford Castle almost 700 years ago.

Proceedings will begin at the Medieval Undercroft on Guildford High Street, where history enthusiasts and Christmas shoppers alike will meet members of His Majesty’s Court. In anticipation, passers-by will be ‘instructed’ in royal etiquette before musicians herald the arrival of the royal party and the procession makes its way to the castle.

King Edward and Queen Philippa will address the crowd assembled in the castle grounds before entering the castle, where they – and members of the public – will enjoy some festive merriment provided by medieval musicians and dancing – along with the promise of high jinx from the Gong Scourer, appointed to be the ‘Lord of Misrule’.

Mark Wallis, founder and artistic director of Past Pleasures, said: “The household accounts of the Great Wardrobe of Edward III show that the court stayed at Guildford Castle in 1347, during which time the King and Queen enjoyed a Christmas masque. Inspired by this visit, we are delighted to be working with Guildford Borough Council Heritage Services to return King Edward’s seasonal ‘disguisings’ and ‘mummings’ to the town in 2016.”

*Christmas at Guildford Castle takes place on Sunday, December 18 from 11.30am to 3.30pm. Processions will leave the Medieval Undercroft on Guildford High Street at midday, 1.30pm and 2.30pm. For more information go to: www.guildford. gov.uk/castle