Mark tells the tragic and largely forgotten story of the 1826 Shaddongate election riot. This was sparked by prospective Tory parliamentary candidate Sir Philip Musgrave visiting Shaddongate to canvass support from one of the area’s few eligible voters. At the time, Shaddongate was home to many hand-loom weavers, including Scottish and Irish migrants, who were facing severe economic hardship and soaring food prices.

Soldiers based in the Castle were ordered to restore order. During the subsequent unrest, three local residents were shot and a fourth later died from injuries sustained in the unrest.

Start time: 7pm
Finish time: 8.30pm (approximately)

Entrance fee: £4 for members; £7 for non-members, including refreshments. Pay on the door.