From Wise Women to Witches: The Leicester Witch Trials of 1616 Saturday 18 July 2026 DescriptionAttendees can choose between a Full Experience Ticket, which includes an exclusive introduction in Trinity Herb Garden, or a Talk Only Ticket, which begins in Leicester Castle Great Hall. SUMMARY 410 years to the day after the events unfolded, join the DMU Museum Team for an evening uncovering one of Leicester's most tragic and little-known stories. On 18 July 1616, a number of local women accused of witchcraft were sentenced to death in one of the largest witch trials in England. Full Experience ticket holders will begin the evening in the historic Trinity Herb Garden, exploring the traditions of the wise woman and the medicinal use of herbs. As attitudes towards healing, religion, and superstition changed, knowledge that had once been valued could become a source of suspicion and fear. The event then moves to Leicester Castle Great Hall, where all attendees will explore the story of Leicester's 1616 witch trials. Through the lives of those involved, discover the accusations, evidence, and social tensions that led to the deaths of the accused women, and consider how belief, gender, power, and politics shaped their fate. The evening concludes with refreshments and an opportunity to explore one of Leicester's most remarkable historic spaces. Ticket Options Full Experience – £10 Talk Only – £6 Schedule 5:00pm – Wise Women: Herbs, Healing and Folk Traditions (Full Experience ticket holders only) 6:00pm – Leicester's Witch Trials of 1616 (All ticket holders) 7:00pm – Refreshments and an opportunity to explore the Great Hall (All ticket holders) 7:30pm – Close Any queries, please contact the team at museum@dmu.ac.uk. Full ExperienceTalk Only |
