VISITORS to one of Worcester’s most historic buildings next weekend will be transported back in time almost 400 years.

As part of Oak Apple Day on Saturday, May 30, The Commandery in Sidbury will hold a 17th century festival with music, dancing and a range of activities.

The building will be adorned with oak leaves as part of the celebration, which will also include and Oak Apple trail and various other activities.

Oak Apple Day celebrates the restoration of Charles II to the throne in May 1660 and is now only celebrated in some parts of the country. But in the 17th century anyone who failed to wear a sprig of oak risked being pelted with eggs or thrashed with nettles.

The building’s manager David Nash said: "Given the Commandery's role in the English Civil War it is very fitting that we commemorate Oak Apple Day and Charles' restoration to the throne.

“We don't plan to thrash anyone with nettles but we do hope that lots of people join in the celebrations here at The Commandery."

This is the first major public event in The Commandery’s Year of Liberty and Democracy, celebrating the 800th anniversary of the sealing of the Magna Carta.

The Commandery will also be celebrating the opening of its new canalside MeeMee cafe on May 30, which will be open during normal opening hours.

For more information call 01905 361821 or visit www.museumsworcestershire.org.uk.