National Trust Godolphin to Re-Enact Unique Piece Of Cornish History

Godolphin, a historic estate managed by the National Trust, is set to host a unique re-enactment of the storied Godolphin family’s snail race, a quirky event that almost cost them their family fortune. This traditional re-enactment, known as the Reeve Ceremony, has been a part of Godolphin’s heritage for hundreds of years and is celebrated annually on Candlemas. This year’s event is scheduled for Friday, February 2, 2024.

Visitors to Godolphin on this day will have the opportunity to step back in time and witness a dramatic portrayal of this unusual piece of Cornish history. The performance will be led by local performer Mark Harandon, whose talent was showcased in a clip from last year’s event shared on Godolphin’s Facebook page.

To ensure accessibility, both performances will be signed by a BSL (British Sign Language) translator. The first performance is set from 11:30 AM to 12:00 PM, followed by a second showing from 1:00 PM to 1:30 PM.

This event not only offers a glimpse into the peculiar historical events of the Godolphin family but also celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Cornwall. It promises to be a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages, shedding light on a lesser-known but fascinating aspect of local history.

Find out more on the National Trust Website