This service marks the opening of Southwell’s renowned folk and roots festival, concluding with the ancient tradition of presenting the Southwell Pence purses to the Dean, followed by a procession of dancers into the town.
The Gate to Southwell dates back to 1109 when the Archbishop of York commanded every parish in Nottinghamshire to contribute funds – the ‘Southwell Pence’ – for building the new Minster church. Each parish contributed Pence according to its means. Parishioners were also required to make an annual procession to Southwell at Whitsun.
