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21/04/2016

The most English week in history?

This week marks the Queen's 90th birthday, St George's Day and the 400th anniversary of the death of William Shakespeare.

This week is arguably one of the most notable weeks in English history, as we celebrate the Queen's 90th birthday, the 400th anniversary of William Shakespeare's death, and St George's Day.

We are taking part in a national ceremony to celebrate the Queen's birthday, by lighting beacons at Whitby Abbey, Dover Castle and Stonehenge among others, while St George's Day events will be taking place across the country this weekend.

Emily Sewell, Head of Events for English Heritage, said: "There's no better time of year to bring out the bunting and celebrate what makes us English than this week. We're calling on people to join us in marking England's rich history and making this St George's Day a big celebration of our nation."

Beacons for the Queen

Over 1,000 beacons are being lit across the country to celebrate the Queen's 90th birthday. We'll be lighting beacons at 20 sites including Stonehenge, Dover Castle and Whitby Abbey.

Beacons will also be lit at the four highest peaks in the UK, Ben Nevis, Mount Snowdon, Scafell Pike and Slieve Donard to honour Britain's longest reigning monarch.

St George's Day

St George's Day is the day England celebrates its national culture and its patron saint, George. St George's story is mingled with myths and legend, but it is thought he was a Roman soldier born somewhere in the Middle East.

At our St George's Day events we commemorate St George with recreations of his legendary battle against the dragon, jousting tournaments and a feast of hands-on fun and games.

Find out more about the real St George and find an event near you.

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English Heritage Beacon sites

Over 1000 beacons will be lit to celebrate the Queen's 90th birthday. The following English Heritage sites are taking part:

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