Revisit the Battle of Naseby

One of the most important battles in English history, and a pivotal clash of the English Civil War, has arrived at Kettering’s Manor House Museum as part of a new exhibition on loan from Market Harborough Museum.

The famous battle, of 1645, is being revisited in this fascinating exhibition of battlefield archaeology and historic artefacts which looks at the differing armies involved in the battle and how the battle was fought.

The Battle of Naseby saw Parliament's New Model Army defeat the Royalist forces of King Charles I so overwhelmingly that the King's attempt to wage war was effectively over.

The items on display from this bloody clash of arms include four swords, a cannon ball, coins and even two sentimental love tokens.  Visitors can also see a 17th century cavalry man’s armour including a lobster tail helmet, breast plate and back plate.  Many of these objects have been drawn from the collection of the Naseby Battlefield Project, which has been investigating the site since 2001 and working to shed more light on the events of June 14, 1645.

Valerie Hitchman, Head of Community Services said,
“This is a great opportunity to learn more about one of the greatest civil war battles which took place right on our doorstop all those years ago.”

Councillor Steve Bellamy, Portfolio Holder for Community and Culture, said, “Don’t forget to visit Kettering Museum’s latest free exhibition this Easter for a fun day out going back into time. Children’s workshops will also be running alongside the exhibition for a chance to get creative, but they are really popular so you will need to book!”

Come along to discover more about the battle which took place on Kettering’s doorstep and which ended the first phase of the Civil War.
The exhibition is now open and runs until Saturday 26th May.  The Museum is open Tuesday-Saturday, 10am - 4.45pm, admission is free.

Easter Craft Activities for Children
Join us at the Manor House Museum for a packed programme of art and craft workshops relating to the Battle of Naseby Exhibition:

• Tuesday 10 April, 2pm – Make a Battle Helmet
• Wednesday 11 April, 11am – Create a Sword
• Thursday 12 April, 2pm – Design a Hobby Horse
• Friday 13 April, 11am – Make your own Body Armour

Come and get creative, making something to take home with you.  

Workshops last approximately 1 hour and booking is essential.  
Activities are suitable for ages 3+, and are charged at £3 per child, £1.50 with a Kettering Leisure Pass and Free to Young Friends members.  

Free jigsaws are given with each booking, but book early to avoid disappointment!  For bookings please call the museum on 01536 534 219.

Lunchtime Talk
Friday 11 May 1-2pm, at the Alfred East Art Gallery.
John Kliene of the Naseby Battlefield Project talks on the Archaeology of the Battle of Naseby.  John explains how archaeological relics, together with a study of the terrain and contemporary accounts, have enabled a detailed picture of the events of the 14 June 1645 to be revealed. Book early to avoid disappointment.  Tickets are priced at £5 per person or £2.50 for Leisure Pass Holders.  For bookings please call the Gallery on 01536 534 274.