Ipswich Central announces 2024 programme for Thomas Wolsey 550 project

Beer tasting, medieval sex and the insights into royal opulence are just some of the subjects on the agenda as a project to mark the life of one of Ipswich’s most famous sons kicks its next phase into gear.

The Thomas Wolsey 550 project, started by Ipswich Central, has announced its 2024 programme.

The first event, on May 31, is a talk from Professor Anthony Musson from Historic Royal Palaces about how Cardinal Wolsey staged diplomatic meetings between rulers and ambassadors.

This will shine a light on a days-long event known as ‘The Field of The Cloth of Gold’, where Henry VIII and the King of France met outside Calais.

In addition, author, broadcaster and lecturer of medieval and early modern history at the London School of Economics, Dr Eleanor Janega, will divulge details on medieval sex and their attitudes towards sexuality on June 8.

She will also talk about how the church tried to regulate people’s sex lives during the period.

In addition, the Thomas Wolsey pub in St Peter’s Street will host a session teaching people medieval brewing methods, while also allowing visitors to sample some beers.

Four walks around Ipswich are also planned for June, in addition to a talk with local historians about what is known about Wolsey’s early life and what Ipswich was like during the period.

The 18-month project, funded by the National Lottery Heritage fund, began in March last year will run through until September.

It was created to mark 550 years since Cardinal Wolsey was born, in March 1473, and will run for a total of 550 days.

Kath Cockshaw, the project director for the Wolsey 550 project, said: “We wanted to create an innovative programme of events that will get people really talking and thinking about Wolsey’s Ipswich and I think this first phase of the project does just that.

“More events are still being planned – including a large Parade in July, community grants funded events, talks and concerts. I urge people to book tickets swiftly as we expect demand to be high.”