THE riotous days of the Restoration will be brought to life as Worcester marks the return of the king following his dramatic escape from the city.

The Oak Apple Weekend called 'A Right Royal Restoration' takes place this bank holiday weekend between Saturday and Monday.

The weekend will feature Maypole dancing, 17th century football, Samuel Pepys reading excerpts from his diary and a visit from king Charles II.

Visitors to the Commandery can also see a pike drill and watch musket salutes for the king.

The tradition dates back over 350 years to King Charles II's restoration to the throne in 1660, almost a decade after he survived a crushing defeat at the Battle of Worcester by hiding in an oak tree.

People pinned oak leaves to their clothing in memory of this legendary escape.

The Commandery served as Charles' Royalist army battle headquarters during the momentous final battle of the English Civil War, giving it a special connection with the festival.

The Commandery will be transformed with garlands of oak leaves, a living history camp, and the 'Royal Oak' ale tent in the gardens will be a lively spot for old-fashioned pub games.

To complete the leafy theme, families will enjoy oak leaf woodcut printing and decorating woodland masks to wear for the humorous mummers’ play, which tells the tale of Charles' escape. Children can try have-a-go archery on Sunday and dressing up and games in the courtyard all weekend.

On Monday, the traditional date of Oak Apple Day, Stourbridge-based Bedcote Morris will bring their bells, sticks and boxes and teach some Cotswold Morris steps to their audience.

Sarah Bourne, events manager, said: "Given the Commandery's role in the English Civil War it is fitting that we bring this festival back to life for our visitors, who are proud of Worcester's significant Civil War history.

“This event is one of our favourites because it's such a positive spring celebration with dancing, talks and lots of fun for families."

The Commandery's history is going to form the basis of Worcester's Civil War Story, a new experience opening this summer.

This major project has been made possible thanks to funding from Worcester City Council and the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF).

The event is free for all Commandery cardholders and for those who bring evidence that they pay their Council Tax to Worcester City Council.