The circus returns to Windsor Castle - as a legendary 1847 event is recreated

'Queen Victoria's circus' brought the castle alive with attractions and performances inspired by George Wombwell’s travelling menagerie that visited Windsor Castle in 1847. From circus performances and falconry displays to arts and crafts and dressing up opportunities, children and adults alike immersed themselves in the spectacle of a Victorian circus.

Throughout the day, a variety of drop-in activities guided children through the training required to become an official member of the circus troupe. By gathering enough stamps on their 'Passport to the Big Top', the children became fully trained circus members eligible to receive a special medal at the end of their visit.

Circus parades, performed by the Lost in Translation circus company in association with Circus250, took place throughout the day, featuring a family of life-size puppet elephants, spectacular displays of aerial acrobatics, stilt walkers, jugglers and more. In the Quadrangle, children were able to test their own acrobatic skills and learn the important juggling and hula-hooping techniques required to become a member of the troupe. Historic falconry demonstrations taught the art of Victorian falconry, offering an opportunity to get up close to these amazing birds of prey.

For younger children, interactive storytelling sessions brought to life the story of George Wombwell’s travelling menagerie and the memorable visit to entertain the royal family in the same location over 170 years ago.

Children were also able to dress up as Victorians, in costumes inspired by the portraits of Queen Victoria and her family that exist in the Royal Collection.

The Salvation Army performed live music, wearing uniforms that have remained unchanged in design since the 1870s.

In tribute to the intimate Shakespeare performances enjoyed by Queen Victoria, a performance of The Merry Wives of Windsor took place in the Moat Garden, developed in collaboration with Shakespeare’s Globe.