In 1214 the Barons took an oath in the Abbey Gardens Bury St Edmunds to force King John to sign the first human rights charter - the Magna Carta.  Every 15 years we remember our legacy.

Magna Carta was the foundation for many democratic rights we enjoy today.  60 years ago the Normandy invasion paved the way for the liberation of mainland Europe, giving back democratic rights and freedom.  The sacrifices made by people in the name of freedom and democracy throughout history are still heard today, keeping the Magna Carta principles alive.

In June 2004 Bury St Edmunds celebrated our historic link to the Magna Carta with a range of events including, awarding the Normandy Veterans the Freedom of the Borough, opening the Norman Tower, tours of Bury St Edmunds Cathedral, children's events in the Abbey Gardens and a medieval jousting tournament at Nowton Park Country Fair.

For information on the history of the Magna Carta from 1199 to 1297 click here and the Magna Carta in modern times click here.

Below are pictures from the Freedom of the Borough event on 13 June 2004.