Historic Bodmin Wassail marks 402th event in style

THE cry was ‘wassail!’ and for the 402nd time, the fine vocals of Bodmin’s wassailers brought good tidings on the twelfth night after Christmas.

It is a slice of history which is unique to the town – for it is believed to be the longest continuous wassail of its type.

Prior to beginning a lengthy day of wassailing at selected private residences and pubs, the wassailers made their first visit to Bodmin Town Council’s headquarters at Shire House.

As well as the traditional soiree and performance for the mayoral party, councillors and officers, the wassail were joined by members of Bodmin Age Concern – the beneficiaries of this year’s wassail proceeds.

Bodmin Town Council, which hosted the wassailers as they began their day said: “At midday today, the Mayor was delighted to welcome Bodmin’s Wassailers to the Shire House Suite.

“The Mayor was joined by the Deputy Mayor, Town Clerk, Mace Bearers and Town Crier, along with other members and officers of Bodmin Town Council, as is the tradition on Twelfth Night when Wassailers make their first visit of the day to the Council’s offices.

“This year is also special for Bodmin Age Concern – Silver Surfers who joined the celebrations and have been named as the chosen charity for this Wassail.

“The Mayor would like to thank Bodmin’s Wassailers for their continued support to local charities within our town each year, and wishes everyone a very Happy New Year!”

What is the Bodmin Wassail?

The Bodmin Wassail is one of Cornwall’s oldest and most unique midwinter traditions, celebrated annually on January 6th (Twelfth Night). Unlike many other West Country wassails that focus on “blessing” apple orchards to ensure a good harvest, the Bodmin tradition is a “Visiting Wassail.”

Key Features of the Tradition

• The Wassailers: A small group of local men, traditionally dressed in Victorian-style top hats and tails (often referred to as “gentlemen’s hand-me-downs”), process through the town.
• Door-to-Door Visiting: The group visits the Mayor, local businesses, pubs, and private homes. At each stop, they sing traditional songs and collect money for local charities.
• The Songs: Bodmin is unique for having three specific wassail songs: one for arrival, one for while they are inside being hosted, and a final “farewell” song to thank their hosts.
• The Bowl: Historically, the wassailers carried a pottery bowl filled with a spiced drink (often ale or cider) to share with those they visited, though today the focus has shifted more toward carolling and fundraising.

Historical Roots

The custom is incredibly well-preserved, with written records dating back to 1624. It was originally solidified by a bequest from Nicholas Sprey, a former Mayor and MP of Bodmin, who left money to ensure the “continuance of love and neighbourly meetings.” It has remained largely unbroken for over 400 years, even continuing through world wars and modern restrictions.