I’ve been quiet for some time as I’ve been very busy and doing a lot of planning.

Now it’s all go! In June I’m going to live, work and eat as a Tudor! Seriously!

In August last year I found out about a Tudor mansion, moated no less, that holds events throughout the year that are living history events. A couple of hundred (or more) people volunteer to do this. Amazing or what?

Anyway, this year, midsummer (20/6) onwards I’m going to be one of them. To begin you have to be interviewed and a decision is made re your position. I’m going to be in the wool shed, obviously. Next you need a name, a back story, and then the work REALLY begins.

Lots of pennies later and I have metres of wool fabric, natural and white linen, shoes, hats, basket, knife etc etc..the list is endless. I have to make my outfit.

two shifts..undergarments – looks a bit like a long nights shirt – made of linen

a kirtle – a dress that’s laced up the front (no underwear then) – lined bodice with linen. No sleeves

sleeves- these are pinned on to the partlett when leaving to go outside

a partlett – looks a bit like a sailors collar, black wool with linen lining, sometimes just linen – covers the shoulders and bosom which is unseemly

a coif – linen bonnet/hat to cover the head/hair

stockings/hose – wool, over the knee held up with woven garter

hat – knitted then felted..never leave home without a hat. Alternatively it could be straw

jacket – wool with natural linen lining

Then there’s everything else..shoes, basket, knife, belt, leather pouches to hang on belt, wooden plate, wooden bowl, wooden spoon, mug, pins, knitting needles (essential for me) brass or wood..the list is endless!

However, the planning and making is, and has been, part of the experience. I’m almost ready to go, almost all items finished.

While I’m there I can’t take pictures..no phones and no watches! I’m hoping people do and tag the hall so I can see them.

So, if any of you want to enjoy a fabulous, very full, day out, get some comfortable shoes on and spend the day at Kentwell Hall in Long Medford, Suffolk. You won’t regret it and may learn something as a bonus! I’ll be there from 21 June.