A medieval feast with a porcine twist, where tradition, pageantry, and a very well-dressed boar come together.
If you’re looking for a Christmas tradition that combines medieval pomp, gastronomic flair, and a touch of the absurd, Bedford’s Boar’s Head Ceremony is a must-see. Dating back to the Middle Ages, this quirky event celebrates feasting, camaraderie, and the enduring power of good presentation—after all, nothing says “holiday cheer” like a boar’s head decked out in greenery and citrus.
What is the Boar’s Head Ceremony?
The Boar’s Head Ceremony is a festive ritual centred around the presentation of a decorated boar’s head to the head of a household, a lord, or—in more modern times—a symbolic leader. The tradition likely began as a pagan custom to honour the boar, a sacred animal associated with strength and fertility.
In medieval England, it evolved into a Christmas celebration with the boar’s head symbolising triumph over evil, tied to tales of knights slaying wild boars in heroic deeds. Over time, the ceremony became a staple of Yuletide feasts in noble households and universities, and Bedford has kept this curious custom alive in all its glory.
Why Bedford?
Bedford, a historic market town with roots stretching back to Saxon times, has long been a hub of tradition. Its Boar’s Head Ceremony draws on centuries of pageantry, making it a perfect destination for time travellers who want to experience Christmas as it might have been celebrated in a medieval banquet hall.
Add to that the town’s picturesque charm—complete with timber-framed buildings, a riverside location, and a thriving sense of community—and you’ve got a Christmas getaway like no other.
When to Go: Mid to Late December
The Boar’s Head Ceremony typically takes place during the lead-up to Christmas. Arrive a day or two early to soak in Bedford’s festive atmosphere and prepare for a spectacle of medieval merriment.
Where to Stay
1. The Swan Hotel
This riverside gem combines historical elegance with modern comforts. It’s the perfect spot to rest after an evening of medieval feasting.
2. A Local Bed-and-Breakfast
For a cosier option, stay in one of Bedford’s charming B&Bs. Expect friendly hosts, warm fires, and plenty of seasonal cheer.
What to Do
1. Attend the Boar’s Head Ceremony
The main event involves a grand procession, with the boar’s head carried in on a silver platter, accompanied by music, singing, and a healthy dose of theatrics. The head is often adorned with greenery, ribbons, and fruit, making it as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the table.
2. Feast Like a Medieval Noble
The ceremony is usually followed by a banquet featuring traditional fare such as roast meats, pies, and puddings. Join in the revelry, but don’t forget your manners—this is medieval dining, after all.
3. Explore Bedford’s History
Take a walk along the Great Ouse River, visit the 11th-century Bedford Castle Mound, or step into the John Bunyan Museum to learn about one of the town’s most famous residents.
What to Eat
1. Boar’s Head (Symbolic)
While the boar’s head itself is more for show than consumption these days, it represents the centrepiece of a lavish feast.
2. Roast Meats and Vegetables
From venison to goose, the banquet table groans with hearty options. Pair your meal with spiced cider or ale for the full medieval experience.
3. Traditional Desserts
Finish with mince pies, plum pudding, or a slice of Christmas cake—because no feast is complete without something sweet.
Fun Facts About the Boar’s Head Ceremony
- Oxford Connections: The ceremony is famously associated with Queen’s College, Oxford, where it has been a Christmas tradition since the 14th century. Bedford’s version draws on similar roots.
- A Song to Remember: The boar’s head is often presented to the accompaniment of the medieval carol The Boar’s Head Carol, a jaunty tune celebrating the noble dish.
- Pagan Roots: The tradition may have originated in Norse or Celtic midwinter rituals, where the boar symbolised sacrifice and abundance.
Survival Tips for Time Travellers
- Dress for the Occasion: Medieval-style clothing will help you blend in and enhance the experience. A tunic or a velvet gown would be perfect.
- Come Hungry: The feast following the ceremony is not for the faint of appetite. Prepare to indulge.
- Join the Singing: Don’t be shy about joining in on The Boar’s Head Carol. Knowing the words in advance might earn you a nod of approval from the locals.
- Mind Your Manners: Medieval feasting etiquette includes washing your hands before eating and avoiding using your personal knife to cut communal food.
Why This Tradition Matters
The Boar’s Head Ceremony is more than just a quirky medieval throwback; it’s a celebration of community, history, and the enduring appeal of festive pageantry. In an age dominated by modern Christmas traditions, Bedford’s commitment to this ancient custom is a reminder of the richness and diversity of Yuletide celebrations.
For time travellers, it’s a chance to step back into a world of banquets and ballads, where every feast tells a story and every tradition is a link to the past.
Want to Know More?
Further Reading:
- Medieval Feasts and Banquets by Madeleine Pelner Cosman
- The Boar’s Head Tradition: Origins and Evolution by Richard Barber
- Christmas Customs and Traditions by Clement A. Miles
Online Resources:
- History of Bedford: www.bedford.gov.uk
- The Boar’s Head Ceremony Explained: www.historyextra.com
Final Thoughts
Bedford’s Boar’s Head Ceremony is a festive feast for the senses, blending history, humour, and holiday cheer into one unforgettable experience. Whether you’re there for the spectacle, the songs, or the food, this tradition offers a unique slice of Christmas past.
Pack your appetite and your love of medieval flair. Bedford—and its boar—await!
