2026 Events at the Castle

Step into the world of Shakespeare beneath the ancient walls of  Appleby Castle

The acclaimedWayfarers Theatre Company  brings one of Shakespeare’s most loved comedies, The Merry Wives of Windsor, to life within the spectacular Inner Bailey of the Castle.

Earlier in the day, a special matinee performance  welcomes schools, students and younger audiences, offering the opportunity to experience Shakespeare in a truly unforgettable historic setting. Surrounded by the ancient walls of the Castle, the performance combines history, literature and live theatre in a way that is both educational and entertaining.

As evening falls and the summer sun sets over the battlements, enjoy a magical night of open-air theatre filled with wit, mischief, romance and laughter beneath the Norman walls of the Castle. <br><br>

Bring a chair or blanket, relax within the beautiful castle grounds, and experience live Shakespeare in one of England’s most atmospheric historic settings.

Matinee Performance – 11:30am            Evening Performance – 7:00pm

Dinner served from 6:00pm in the Old Great Hall
Choice of Steak & Mushroom Pie or Vegetable Lasagne with Sticky Toffee Pudding  – £9.50 per person

A perfect summer event for families, theatre lovers and anyone seeking a memorable evening in the heart of historic Cumbria.

Step into the dark and powerful world of Shakespeare beneath the ancient walls of Appleby Castle.

Following their  successful previous performances at the Castle, the acclaimed HandleBards Theatre Company return to the spectacular Inner Bailey with Shakespeare’s legendary tragedy Macbeth

As evening falls and the summer sky darkens over the battlements, experience an unforgettable night of open-air theatre filled with ambition, prophecy, betrayal and power beneath the Norman walls of one of England’s most historic castles.

Surrounded by flickering torchlight, ancient stone walls and the dramatic atmosphere of the Castle grounds, audiences will be immersed in one of Shakespeare’s most gripping and haunting plays.

Bring a chair or blanket, relax within the beautiful castle grounds, and experience live Shakespeare in one of England’s most atmospheric historic settings.

Performance – 7:00pm

Dinner served from 6:00pm in the Old Great Hall
Choice of Steak & Mushroom Pie or Vegetable Lasagne with Sticky Toffee Pudding – £9.50 per person

A perfect summer evening for theatre lovers, families and anyone looking to experience the magic of live Shakespeare in the heart of historic Cumbria.

Monday 3rd August 2026  – 7pm start