"Congratulations to Ampthill Cultural Events, the many volunteers, performers, historians, researchers and supporters who worked so hard to bring the festival back to life. It was a pleasure to open the Aragon Day Festival and to see the return of this much-loved community event after a six-year absence.

The magnificent Tudor costumes, Golden Hare Morris dancers and the beautiful setting of Ampthill Great Park created a memorable celebration of the town’s remarkable heritage.

What made the festival particularly special was the way it brought together so many different elements. History, archaeology, education, academic research and community engagement were combined in a way that made the past accessible and relevant to people of all ages.

The archaeological excavation taking place alongside the festival, together with the work of the Henry on Tour project, added a fascinating new dimension and demonstrated how local history can continue to inform and inspire future generations. A wonderful example of a community celebrating and preserving its heritage."

Mrs Susan Lousada - Lord-Lieutenant for Bedfordshire

On the 16th May and Friday 18th October we hosted an amazing nights of folk dancing at Parkside Hall with lots of laughter and music.