William (III) de Lanvalei (c.1182-c.1217) lord of Walkern was one of the twenty-five Magna Carta sureties appointed by the rebal barons at Runnymede in 1215 to ensure that King John adhered to the Law of the Land set down in the charter. Walkern was the administrative centre (‘caput honouris’) of the barony, and its centre of gravity.
2015 was the 800th anniversary of the Magna Carta and a number of events were held to promote, raise funds and celebrate Walkern’s part.
If you are interested in finding out more about medieval Walkern, you may be interested in some of the books that we have on sale, click here
Magna Carta Association of Barons
Medieval Barbeque at the Castle
Let’s Get Medieval at Walkern Fair
Magna Carta Cycle Ride : Lance Allan
The following activities were listed on the WHS website to promote Walkern’s links with Magna Carta and to raise money for the community events in June 2015.
Sunday 14th June 2015
LiberTea at the URC
2.00pm the Tea Service – a short informal service of thanks giving, followed by afternoon tea and the unveiling of Walkern’s facsimile of Magna Carta, donated by the National MC 800th Committee
Strike a Blow for Democracy at St Mary’s Church
3.00pm . The Tower bells at St Mary’s will ring – dust off your handbells/bike bells/Christmas bells and join the national celebrations to mark the anniversary of Magna Carta.
22 June 2015, 8.30am at United Reformed Church, Wallkern
Magna Carta Cycle Ride and Breakfast
Join Lance Allen for breakfast at Walkern URC from 8.30am as part of his 8-day bike ride to visit all 22 Magna Carta Baronies around the UK.
Friday 26th June 2015
Medieval Day at Walkern Primary School
School fair; Hautbois medieval musicians; Magna Carta play; and lots more
Saturday 27th June 2015
Service of Dedication at St Mary‘s Church
9.00am. Medieval costumed walk through the village carrying William de Lanvalei’s heraldic ‘achievement’ of embroidered tabard, flag and Great Helm, to St Mary’s where a service of dedication will take place.
Friday-Sunday 14-16th August 2015
Magna Fest at the White Lion
Following the success of last year’s Magna Fest, the music festival featuring local bands is returning to Walkern’s Elizabethan pub
Saturday and Sunday, 27th and 28th June 2015, 10am – 5pm
Medieval Fair and Re-enactment at Walkern Hall
A weekend of 13th century life, including longbow archery, falconry, music, crafts, skill of arms displays. Plenty of stalls, food and drink, plus Knight School for children, displays and exhibitions, and a siege engine competition!