THE year is 1415. The armies of England muster in Southampton, preparing to launch Henry V’s invasion of France.

But Scrope of Masham has discovered a dark plot that threatens to unseat Henry and change the course of history.

Scrope, loyal to his king, intends to reveal all, but as he uncovers more, at Itchen Ferry, he is pulled across the dark water.

This medieval-set thriller by award-winning Ben Musgrave promises to leave audiences on the edge of their seats as it tells the story of The Southampton Plot, a gripping tale of deceit, jealousy and dishonour, and betrayal.

All is not well in Southampton, there are moves against the king, an invasion of France and the ale wife is running out of beer! Find out why the archer needs a handbag, what’s disturbing the friars and why the town gunner is out collecting dung!

There are plots, executions and ships claimed. The merchants are in uproar, the constable of the castle is in a frenzy and that's before the army reaches France. With plotters, executions, and ships requisitioned, the merchants are in uproar, the constable of the castle is in a frenzy and that’s even before the army departs for France.

To capture the atmosphere, to evoke a feeling of stepping back in time, the play is being performed at different medieval locations, some of which are rarely open to the public, each one carefully chosen for its significance in the historic plot, on the actual day events unfolded.

Portchester Castle (July 21 and 23): This was where Henry first learned of the plot to overthrow him. He had the conspirators brought to him here before sending them to Southampton for trial.

Peartree Church: Although not built at the time of Agincourt this is one of the most historic buildings in Itchen Village. From here the plotters went ‘across the dark water’ on Itchen Ferry to conspire.

Royal Victoria Country Park (July 26): The abbey nearby hosted members of the army en route to Agincourt. It also, supplied wood for ships and other supplies for the army. The plotters are likely to have travelled through there to their various meetings.

Hamble Priory Church (July 28): During their conspiracy the plotters met at Hamble. The church is of the period, and could have been the venue, a sanctuary away from prying eyes.

St Julian’s Church (July 24 and 25): The last resting place of Richard Earl of Cambridge after his execution. A rare opportunity to enter this rarely-open to the public chapel.

Book tickets at theberrytheatre.co.uk or call 023 8065 2333.

Meanwhile the well known Southampton theatre company, The Sarah Siddons Fan Club, returns to the streets with a new production as part of the commemorations for marking the 600th anniversary of the battle of Agincourt: A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to Agincourt.

Join the Wives of Hamtun on a journey around the old town as the Sarah Siddons Fan Club bring to life some of the true history of Southampton’s past.

The Sarah Siddons Fan Club takes its name from 18th century actress, who was the best known tragedienne of her time, and frequent visitor to Southampton.

All tickets cost £5 and are available online at WeGotTickets.com, direct by email info@sarahsiddonsfanclub.org or phone 023 8086 2882.

The walks depart from the Medieval Merchants House, 58 French Street, Southampton on August 2, 3, and 4 at 7.30pm.