Article by Ben Spencer
Back in February of this year, The Commandery in Worcester put on a marvellous showcase of historic military action with Living History 2025.
Taking place in the Grade I listed building and its gardens, the weekend of events were punctuated by 17th-century pike drills, archery and gunfire displays, and the British Napoleonic drill.
Following the success of Living History 2025, the event will return to feed the need for more immersive experiences based on Britain’s past.
Given the prevalence of historical insights, points of interest, and general intrigue in Worcester, it makes sense that the next Living History in Worcester will be even bigger in 2026.
A Very Roman Place to Explore
It’s not difficult to find a way to immerse yourself in the historic Roman exploits of the British Isles right here in Worcestershire.
It was only earlier this year that, near Worcester, a whole horde of gold and silver Roman coins were announced and put on show in the city’s art gallery and museum.
They were originally discovered in late 2023, but were finally presented to the public from January to March in 2025.
Of course, to immerse yourself further into our days under the rule of the Roman Empire, you can explore Worcester’s history as Vertis.
Several discoveries of pottery and coins in and around Worcester continue to support the thinking that Vertis was continually occupied by the Romans.
Even now, seven sites of Roman interest in and around Worcester can be explored.
It’s the prevalence of these historical sites and Britain’s legendary place in Roma history that continues to spur interest that goes beyond purely historical exploits.
This, of course, has made Roman-set entertainment wildly popular across Worcester and the UK. On TV, both Britannia and Domina dazzled for hours on end.
On the way, Spartacus: House of Ashur is bound to garner a hefty UK audience for its return to the popular gladiatorial setting.
Rome’s popularity even extends beyond TV.
In one of the newest forms of entertainment, that of slingo casino games, Rome is a feature.
One of the most recognisable of these is Slingo Centurion: Maximus Winnus. Set in Ancient Rome, it’s another entertainment experience that was influenced by our love of the all-conquering empire.
Living History Returns to Feed Our Fascinations
Ancient Rome continues to be of huge interest in Worcester and across the UK, as shown by our collective continued intrigue in even entertainment products that draw us back to the days of Rome at its height.
So, the 2026 edition of Living History in Worcester will look to appeal to our fascinations.
Taking place on 21 and 22 February 2026, Living History will take place across three venues next year. The Commandery plays host once again.
Joining it is Tudor House and Greyfriars. Due to last year’s popularity, as well as adding more shows and venues, the event will also hold 20-minute talks that cover several historical periods.
The events at each of the three venues will differ, meaning that anyone who wants to travel through the history of Worcester will need to jump between them.
At the Tudor House, the theme will be the First World War. At Greyfriars, it’s all about the Tudor period. Finally, back at the Commandery, the showcase begins with Roman Britain and flows through to World War II.
Back by popular demand, Living History 2026 will once again showcase the old days of Worcester. Be sure to circle the weekend of 21 February 2026 on your calendar for a day of complete historical immersion!
