Walking in the footsteps of Shakespeare with Aston Cantlow Local History Society

On July 12^th, the CCT joined the Aston Cantlow and District Local History Society in hosting an event entitled “Test the Trail”.

Together, we are producing a trail pamphlet that guides visitors around sites of interest in the area – including All Saints’ Church, Billesley. The pamphlet is part of a wider Heritage Lottery Fund sponsored project to raise the profile of All Saints’ Church.

The event was a huge success. It began with over 40 people walking part of the proposed route – testing its suitability to be included in the trail. The early evening light was beautiful, perfectly illuminating the stunning views of the Warwickshire countryside.

The group was then joined by another ten or so people, for a tour of All Saints Church and the archaeological remains of the deserted medieval village that the Church once served. It was great to see the pews once again full of people – even the balcony was filled to capacity!

We then transferred to Aston Cantlow Village Hall, where the Local History Society had prepared a feast enjoyed by over 60 people. Following dinner, Laura Samuels and Jo Cross of the CCT, made a presentation about the mystery of Shakespeare’s wedding and the possibility that it took place in All Saints’ Church. This mystery is the subject of a touring exhibition, which also forms part of the All Saints’ Church HLF project. It is due to open on September 15^th in Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, Stratford Upon Avon.

The turn out was greater than any of us expected, the weather was perfect and everyone had a thoroughly enjoyable evening. Thank you to all those who took part in making it such a success.