Celebrating the capital that never was in Lincolnshire

Heres a pub quiz teaser for you which English riverside town was the capital of England and Denmark at the same time but only for five weeks? The surprising answer is Gainsborough in Lincolnshire, thanks to its historic connections as a Viking stronghold in the 11th century. And this month the historic town beside the River Trent will be throwing a celebration to mark a millennium since it reigned as capital of both countries, albeit for just a few short weeks. For 2013, Gainsboroughs annual Riverside Festival on Saturday 8th June will take its theme from 1013 when it was the "capital that never was". This years event, Gainsborough Goes Norse, celebrates Sweyn Forkbeard, King of Denmark, who defeated the Anglo-Saxons to be declared King of England, ruling both England and Denmark from his Gainsborough stronghold. But he died just five weeks after becoming King, and his son Canute moved away, ending Gainsboroughs brief capital status but not apparently until he had uttered his most famous command. It is said that King Canutes bid to turn back the tide actually took place on the shores of the River Trent at Gainsborough, where some historians believe the King took advantage of The Trent Aegir, a naturally occurring tidal wave. Marking the 1,000th anniversary of Sweyns death, the Riverside Festival - now in its 12th successive year - will feature a parade, live music, stalls, fun fair, duck race and a stunning firework finale. There will also be free access to Gainsborough Old Hall, among the best-preserved medieval manor houses in England, which sits on the site of the old Gainsborough Castle, King Sweyns base in the 11th century. For more details about the Festival, see www.gainsboroughriversidefestival.com For details of more things to do and places to stay in Lincolnshire, log on to www.visitlincolnshire.com