Visit Worcestershire has launched a new campaign for 2026 to mark 375 years since the end of the English Civil War, including a campaign video featuring ‘King Charles II’ and ‘Oliver Cromwell’.
The video series, produced as part of the Historic Worcestershire project, offers a look at the county’s Civil War heritage. Blending humour with authentic storytelling, the two famous adversaries reunite to present their ultimate “Historic Break” in Worcester – exploring key battle sites, heritage attractions and the lasting legacy of the Battle of Worcester.
Following the success of Historic Worcestershire’s 2025 launch, the two characters returned to the small screen, this time guiding viewers through the sites that shaped England’s history, with a light‑hearted take on one of the nation’s most dramatic chapters.
It launched to coincide with English Tourism Week, and the film is a central element of the Civil War 375-anniversary activity. It aims to inspire local people to reconnect with the stories on their doorstep, while encouraging visitors to explore the events and attractions that shaped the nation’s history.
Lorna Robinson, Visitor Economy and Destination Manager at Visit Worcestershire, said, “Only in Worcestershire could ‘King Charles II’ and ‘Oliver Cromwell’ return after 375 years and end up agreeing on where to go for a great day out. This campaign has been created to commemorate the Civil War 375th anniversary and to shine a light on the stories that shaped us, and remind people just how much history is right here on our doorstep. Few places in England can claim a moment as nationally significant as the Battle of Worcester, and how that impacted the very democracy we have today. With so many talks, walking tours and events planned, it’s going to be a real ‘Summer of Heritage’ in the county this year.”
The wider anniversary programme will run throughout 2026, spotlighting key moments in Worcestershire’s past and inviting people to follow in the footsteps of those who shaped the story. Activities will include themed trails, heritage events, digital storytelling, and opportunities for local businesses to get involved.
English Tourism Week, which ran from 13 – 22 March and was themed Local Stories, National Growth, highlighted the work of organisations such as Visit Worcestershire in promoting the county’s heritage and showcasing Worcestershire as a destination of choice.
With the value of tourism in Worcestershire continuing to rise and now surpassing £1 billion annually, this year provides an ideal moment to showcase the county’s heritage offer and encourage new audiences to the region. A series of videos will be released across Visit Worcestershire’s digital channels and promoted through the Historic Worcestershire activity.
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