Join The Lord Mayor And Sheriff At The Assize Of Ale

F’r yet anoth’r year, the hist’ric tradition of the assize of ale shall beest taking lodging in y’rk.

Or as us modern folks say, for yet another year, the historic tradition of the Assize Of Ale will be taking place in York. The excitement will begin at the York Mansion House and will make its way round the most gallant public houses of York whilst testing the best beverages to make sure that they are of the upmost quality. All are welcome, especially those attending in the dress of the medieval fashion.

This famous tradition dates back to when the Sheriff of York and Lord Mayor would call on their sergeants to test the quality of ale around York so that it was of enough quality to be served to the people of York. Any sergeant whom refused this offer would be fined or sent to the pillories which is why in the modern day, those who attend provide donations to local charities, with often larger sums being given due to how merry the attendees are, as well as some being punished in the pillories with soggy sponges.

Throughout the day, there will also be a birds of prey display for those who are brave enough to face the talons of the falcon. For others who are are Bake-Off fans, the thrilling best bread competition will take place at 1pm, with York’s top bakers fighting for the approval of the Sheriff! For all nobles and knights, the medieval feast will start at 5:30pm in York Brew with the small fee of either 500 shillings, 32 horses or £25. Pre-booking is suggested so as to prevent the Sheriff’s guards from denying you entry. To do this, simply follow this link to secure your place at the feast.

Therefore, to reenact this historic tradition once more, join the Lord Mayor Chris Cullwick and the Sheriff Sue Hunter for the most cheery afternoon of the year!

Assize of Ales 2014

The Sheriff, Guild of Scriveners and many more will all take part in the annual medieval-themed York charity event, Assize of Ale, this weekend.

Assize of ale

In the middle ages Sheriffs were concerned that the ale of York should be of a suitable quality and brought it upon themselves to appoint Serjeants to test the quality of ale in the city.

This Saturday (9 August) at 1.50pm, the procession will start from the Guildhall to the steps of the Mansion House for the Sheriff’s Address where he will be accompanied by the Civic Party and the Guild in period costume. From there participants will then take part in the medieval custom by visiting the cities alehouses to ensure it is palatable.

 

Throughout the years, this has become a key charity event in York and involves two separate routes around city centre alehouses. There is also a medieval feast at Bedern Hall in the evening, which takes place from 6.45pm.

As well as the Assize of Ale the Guildhall will be open to the public from 10am to 12 noon and 2pm to 4pm. Entry is free and there will be free seal-making workshops. People can also watch preparations for the Assize of Ale during the morning session.

Money raised from the event will be donated towards the Lord Mayor, Sheriff and Guild Master’s charities. The 2014/15 Civic Charities are York Teaching hospital and York against Cancer. Funds raised will also benefit St Leonard’s Hospice and York Blind and Partially Sighted Society. (more…)