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Open Faversham heritage festival to make its debut this August

05:00, 11 August 2023

A market town is showcasing its heritage with a week of almost 50 live events.

The Faversham Society and the Friends at St Mary of Charity have come together to launch the first Open Faversham, which takes place at various locations all over the town.

St Mary of Charity is one of the main venues for the first ever Open Faversham event
St Mary of Charity is one of the main venues for the first ever Open Faversham event

The week-long showcase will display a number of Faversham’s historical artefacts, including six large flagons dating back to the reign of Charles I and maps of the town that go back as far as the 1700s.

There are a number of venues that will be taking part, including the Fleur de Lis Museum which will be showing evidence that William Shakespeare once visited the town in the 16th century and the Market Place where there will be free outdoor entertainment including live bands and dancers.

Those wishing to explore the town can take a guided tour of the Oare Gunpowder Works or stroll along the medieval Abbey Street where there will be live entertainment on select dates.

Shepherd Neame brewery will be open to the public for a free exhibition
Shepherd Neame brewery will be open to the public for a free exhibition

Shepherd Neame will also be opening its doors to the public for free throughout the week.

The brewery, which is the oldest in Britain, will be holding a Heritage and Archives Exhibition in the King James Room from Monday, August 14 to Friday, August 18.

The room is named after James II, who was captured while trying to escape France and brought to the brewery for a day in 1688.

The exhibition will feature a selection of records and memorabilia from Shepherd Neame’s history, including engravings, plans, photographers, maps, bottles and the cast iron safe.

There will be live entertainment in the Market Place throughout the week. Picture: Chris Davey
There will be live entertainment in the Market Place throughout the week. Picture: Chris Davey

There will also be children's activities, which are free with an adult, including dressing up, pirate shows and craft workshops.

Open Faversham takes place from Saturday, August 12 to Sunday, August 20.

You can find the full schedule online here.

Leaflets are also available from the Visitor Information Centre in the Market Place.

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