The Battle of Trafalgar of 1805 was a historic and crucial victory for Britain. Here are some of the best events taking place this year to mark it…
One of Britain’s most exalted conflicts, the Battle of Trafalgar saw Admiral Viscount Lord Nelson lead his Royal Navy fleet into an offshore clash with France and Spain off the Cape of Trafalgar. An utter triumph, this historic naval engagement (during the Napoleonic Wars) turned Lord Horatio Nelson into one of Britain’s most revered war heroes, for his part in leading the British to victory in an event that would mark the beginning of an era of British mastery over the high seas.
Tragically, Nelson was aboard the leading ship The Victory when he took a bullet in his back from a French sniper, and though immediately rushed below deck for emergency treatment, he died soon after – yet at least he did so in the knowledge that his fleet had been victorious.
The very warship that lead the charge can still be admired at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, where a special Trafalgar Day event will be held this year, among several others across the UK.
Here is our round-up of the top 5 ways to mark Trafalgar Day 2014.
Trafalgar Day Concert, Tuesday 21 October 2014
Featuring impressive renditions of Hayden’s Nelson Mass, excerpts from Water Music, Rule Britannia, and many more, this year’s Trafalgar Day concert at St Mary Magdalene Church in Richmond promises to be a memorable affair, performed by the Early London Opera and conducted by Bridget Cunningham.
Trafalgar Day Dinner, Tuesday 21 October 2014
Indulge in a four-course dinner to mark Trafalgar Day this year at Eastwell Manor, Ashford, and raise a Rum Cocktail to Admiral Nelson at the preceding elegant drinks reception, plus plenty of cheese and port (passed to the left in true naval tradition).
Trafalgar Night, Friday 24 October 2014
This year, Portsmouth Historic Dockyard will be hosting a delightful evening of fine dining and entertainment onboard the stunning and sleek HMS Warrior 1860. Celebrate Trafalgar Day at this wonderfully unusual and authentic event running from 7pm until midnight.
Birmingham Event, Sunday 26 October 2014
Every year the Lord Mayor of Birmingham leads the charge (excuse the pun) hosting some rather splendid celebrations for Trafalgar Day – usually comprising a special service and parade – this year held on Edgbaston Street.
A stay at The Hoste, Burnham Market, any date around Trafalgar Day
Acclaimed four-star hotel The Hoste in Norfolk is also an ideal place to mark the occasion; given that the Admiral actually hailed from Norfolk, and frequently stayed in the same hotel. Plus, a ‘Remember Nelson’ exhibition will feature countless treasures from his life and career – unmissable for history buffs.
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