Rothwell’s Ancient Rowell Fair Brings 820-Year Tradition Back to the Town

An 820-year-old tradition has returned to Rothwell as huge crowds gathered early this morning for the annual Rowell Fair celebrations.

The event includes a ceremonial proclamation at 6am and playful scuffles involving halberdiers, who traditionally accompany the town bailiff.

Huge crowds gathered early this morning for the annual Rowell Fair celebrations.  Pic: Rothwell Town Council

The fair, which dates back to 1204, began on Proclamation Monday when the bailiff to the lord of the manor reads the ancient charter on horseback.

The celebrations include mock battles as participants attempt to “disarm” the halberdiers, and pubs in the town opened early as part of the traditional festivities.

The fair, which dates back to 1204, began on Proclamation Monday when the bailiff to the lord of the manor reads the ancient charter on horseback. Pic: Rothwell Town Council