Event Type: Local / Community

Takes Place: 13th May 2026

Time: 12pm

Venue: Wedmore Village Hall, Wedmore

Description: This talk with Dr Helen Frisby, author of the Shire book Traditions of Death and Burial, explores royal funeral customs from Anglo-Saxon times to the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II. Some royal funeral customs remain virtually unchanged down the centuries, while others have evolved along with changing ideas about royal power and general social mores. Meanwhile many monarchs have added their own personal touches to their funerals, and of course accidents happen too – so why do only some of these then become ‘traditions’? In answering this question we get to the heart of why funerals matter at all. Helen has taught history at the University of the West of England, Bristol, and funeral directing at the University of Bath where she’s also a Visiting Research Fellow. Hon. Secretary of The Folklore Society, Helen has appeared on The History Channel and BBC radio. She continues to research and publish on topics relating to death, funerals and bereavement, past and present. Helen will be signing and selling her book after the event.

How to book: https://www.ticketsource.com/booking/select/vzzbrlkgmrmg There is also an option to buy lunch and talk to Helen afterwards.

Price: £10 and £25 plus booking fees

Tel: 01934 807229

Email: boxoffice@wedmorefestival.co.uk

Website: https://wedmorefestival.co.uk/

Organiser: Wedmore Festival

Lecturer: Dr Helen Frisby

Comments: Wedmore is lovely village surrounded by the Somerset levels and only 20 miles from Bristol and Bath and 5 miles from Wells. This talk is part of the wider Wedmore Festival Week. See website for further details.

Region: South-West England