Suffolk’s dark history: Landmark witchcraft exhibition at The Hold

Name: Witches: Suffolk’s Dark Legacy
Start: 2026-10-16
End: 2027-02-21
Location: The Hold

History Desk 2026-09-11 10:29 2 min read

Close-up of mystical witchcraft artifacts, candles, and curiosities on a dark shelf

A significant new exhibition, Witches: Suffolk’s Dark Legacy, is set to open at The Hold in Ipswich this autumn. Running from 16 October 2026 through to 21 February 2027, the event provides a comprehensive examination of the intense period of witch trials that occurred in the county between 1645 and 1647, a time when nearly 200 people in Suffolk faced accusations.

Rare national loans and historical artifacts

The exhibition is notable for securing prestigious loans from major national institutions, including the British Library, the V&A, the Tate, the Wellcome Collection, the Bodleian Libraries, and the National Archives. These items are made available through the Weston Loan Programme, a scheme designed to bring national collection pieces to local authority museums.

Suffolk’s dark history: Landmark witchcraft exhibition at The Hold

Key historical items on display include:
* The Malleus Maleficarum (The Hammer of Witches): A foundational text of the era.
* King James I’s Daemonologie: A significant work on the nature of witchcraft.
* A Discovery of Witches: Written by the notorious Witchfinder General, Matthew Hopkins.
* The Magic Circle: A celebrated painting by John William Waterhouse, on loan from the Tate.

Historical context and cultural evolution

Beyond the physical artifacts, the exhibition aims to contextualize the trials within the volatile climate of the mid-17th century. It explores how the intersection of the English Civil War, religious instability, and severe economic hardship created a environment of widespread suspicion and fear. The display also traces the shifting cultural perception of the “witch,” examining how the figure has evolved from a historical target of persecution into a modern symbol of independence and women’s rights. This section of the exhibition is supported by contributions from the Museum of Witchcraft and Magic in Cornwall and local practitioners.

Programming and community engagement

To accompany the exhibition, Suffolk Archives has developed a broad programme of engagement, including talks, guided walks, and workshops suitable for schools and local groups.

In late October, the archives will partner with the Ipswich-based wellness space Mugwort and Mistletoe to host a series of events marking Samhain. These activities will focus on traditional crafts, plant lore, and wellbeing, offering a contemporary perspective on the themes of the exhibition.

Visitor information and booking

Dates: 16 October 2026 – 21 February 2027
Venue: The Hold, Ipswich
Booking: Advance booking is required for all visitors.

Prospective attendees should visit the official Suffolk Archives website at https://suffolkarchives.co.uk/pages/witches to secure their place and view the most current information regarding event schedules and entry requirements. Specific ticket pricing was not disclosed in the initial exhibition announcement; visitors are advised to check the booking portal for the latest details before planning their visit.

Source: Suffolk County Council

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Details verified against the official Suffolk County Council announcement and Suffolk Archives event page.

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