Vikings at The Priory - Exhibition and Events
Priory Arts
27th May to 22nd June 2026 10am-4pm
Visit the Priory Arts website for the latest information on this.
From 27 May to 22 June 2026 the Herefordshire Hoard (replica), a nationally significant Saxon/Viking treasure which was found near Leominster, will be exhibited in Leominster Priory. This will form just a part of an innovative exhibition which will bring both the Hoard and our local history to life, exploring the Viking history in the area, and examining the differences and influences between Viking and Anglo-Saxon ways of life, and art. Along with ‘hands-on history’ events, talks, walks, plays, concerts, re-enactments and an interactive exhibition (with a replica Viking Long Boat, shields, clothes and their Anglo Saxon equivalents, including Coracles), we have developed a schools’ programme.
The exhibition will include work from local artists, students and community groups, and a special display about the Illuminated Hereford Gospels, an 8th century treasure of Hereford Cathedral. We’ll be the first in the Diocese to host the ‘Hereford Gospels for Today Project’, a book inspired by the original. Art by Liz Jones and the Marches Scribes will bring the world of illuminated manuscripts to life.
Please note dogs are not allowed inside the Priory building during the exhibition period with the exception of assistance dogs.
Highlights – pop them in your diary! This leaflet has all the information you'll need!
Tuesday 26th May at 6pm - the day BEFORE the exhibition open - TALK ‘How to Build a Viking Ship’
Viking ships changed the history of Europe: Stephen Etheridge, of Regia Anglorum, explains the technology and craftsmanship behind them. £5
28th May from 10am – 4pm Viking Activity Day
Hands-on History: Revealing our Roots. Exploring Anglo/Viking Herefordshire, Treasure and the Herefordshire Hoard. Drop-in event for all ages. Refreshments available. FREE
30th – 31st May Viking and Anglo-Saxon Re-enactment Weekend with Regia Anglorum
Activities include: Saturday 30th May from 10am – 4pm – Warrior Training on the Grange
11.30 am Viking Burial in the Priory
3pm on The Grange – BATTLE
Traditional Viking and Anglo-Saxon Crafts in and around the Priory
8.30pm – Anglo-Saxon Night Prayer in the Priory
Sunday 31st May – from 10am – 4pm – Warrior Training on the Grange
Traditional Viking and Anglo-Saxon Crafts in and around the Priory
Sunday 31st May at 11.30am – Viking and Anglo-Saxon Fashion Show in the Priory
Traditional craft activities exploring Viking and Anglo-Saxon art and life, in collaboration with Leominster Festival and the Black-Crows