Discover the traditions of Easter in the Middle Ages and enjoy a spring family trail at Ludlow Castle.

Easter has always been one of the most important celebrations in the Christian calendar. In medieval towns like Ludlow, it marked the end of the long fasting season of Lent and the beginning of a joyful period of feasting, games and gatherings after the hardships of winter.

For families living in and around Ludlow, Easter would have been a welcome turning point in the year. As the days grew longer and communities emerged from the colder months, it was a time to celebrate, share food and enjoy simple outdoor entertainment.

So what might Easter have looked like for families living in and around a castle during the Middle Ages?

 
A Time to Celebrate the End of Lent

 In medieval England, Lent was taken very seriously. For forty days people avoided rich foods such as meat, butter, milk and eggs. Meals were simple and often centred around bread, fish and vegetables. By the time Easter arrived, everyone was ready for a proper feast. When church bells rang on Easter morning it signalled the end of fasting and the beginning of celebration. Families gathered to share foods that had been forbidden during Lent, and tables were suddenly filled with eggs, breads, pies and roasted meats.

Eggs were particularly important. Hens continued laying throughout Lent, but because they could not be eaten, they were saved until Easter. By the time the celebrations arrived there were plenty to share, making eggs a natural symbol of new life and renewal.

Easter Games and Medieval Fun

 
Although Easter was an important religious occasion, it was also a time for entertainment and community gatherings. Medieval records describe a variety of games taking place in villages, towns and castle grounds. One popular activity was egg rolling, where decorated eggs were rolled down grassy hills to see whose travelled the furthest without breaking. Some historians believe this may have symbolised the stone rolling away from Christ’s tomb.

Children enjoyed simple games outdoors; racing, chasing and searching for hidden objects. It’s easy to see how these traditions may have inspired the modern Easter egg hunt that many families still enjoy today.

Medieval Easter Food

Many Easter foods enjoyed in medieval England may sound surprisingly familiar. Special breads were baked to celebrate the end of Lent, sometimes marked with a cross. Sweet treats became more common once ingredients like milk and butter could be used again. Eggs remained central to the celebrations. They might be boiled, dyed with natural colours using onion skins or plants, or used in dishes shared between families and neighbours. While medieval cooks didn’t have chocolate eggs, they certainly knew how to celebrate with good food and company.

Celebrate Easter at Ludlow Castle

 
Families can experience a little of that Easter spirit this spring at Ludlow Castle. From 28th March to 12th April, the Castle will be hosting a family Easter trail, inviting young explorers to search the historic grounds for hidden eggs as they explore the ruins.

Visitors can wander through ancient towers and courtyards, follow the trail through the castle grounds and take in the spectacular views across Ludlow town - a perfect setting for a spring family adventure.

Visitor Information
Easter Trail at Ludlow Castle: 28th March – 12th April 2026

Young explorers are invited to search the castle grounds for hidden eggs while discovering one of England’s finest medieval castles.

Ludlow Castle is open daily from 10am – 5pm during the Easter holidays.

Find out more at ludlowcastle.com.