THE 101st year of Bluebell Sunday celebrations at Okehampton Castle will take place on Sunday, May 20.
The special spring day invites
visitors to rediscover the historic site amidst the beauty of the bluebells. Visitors will be able to enjoy free entry to the historic site, special guided tours, entertainments throughout the day, and displays and activities from a range of local organisations.
The event marks the changing of the seasons and the coming of the beautiful bluebells throughout the castle’s woodlands, and has been a highlight of the Okehampton calendar since 1917 when local benefactor Sydney Simmons gifted the castle to the Okehampton Castle Trust for the inhabitants and visitors of the town to enjoy in future years.
Highlights of this year’s Bluebell Sunday include live music and entertainments from the Okelele Orchestra, Okehampton’s own ukulele orchestra, singing from Wren Music’s folk choirs, and dancing from Tinners Morris.
Tours of the castle will explore the mysteries of the castle’s many toilets, while nature walks and activities with the dormouse conservation team will explore Okehampton Castle’s woodlands.
The Museum of Dartmoor Life will be displaying items relating to the castle as well as a handling collection, and there will be spinning and weaving demonstrations throughout the day.
The castle, once the largest in Devon and now a picturesque ruin, is now in the guardianship of English Heritage. Bluebell Sunday runs from 10am to 5pm.