English Heritage’s Festival of History

A blockbuster weekend of clashing swords, thundering hooves, epic battles, aerial displays and have-a-go fun for all the family featuring:

The Arena:
Dramatic battlefield action from Norman knights to a WWII battle re-enactment and aerial display, with the Napoleonic and Boer wars in between.

Trench Experience:
Walk through the WWI trench experience and meet the British Tommys. See performances from the front line in the recreated battlefield and hear about the role of the horse in the Great War. Make time to visit the Estaminet where the soldiers can relax away from the front line with some hot food and a friendly face.

The Parade Ground:
Witness the ceremony and pageantry of a Medieval joust, the might of the Imperial Roman Army and the horse riding skills of a Victorian Gymkhana.

Festival Stage:
Delight your ears with music through the ages at the Festival and Bandstand Stages. From Medieval ballads, through folk rock and on up to the swinging sixties with The Kinx tribute band.

The Family Zone:
Games, shows, dress-up, role-play and a Victorian beach – it’s all in the fantastic Family Zone!

Festival of Historical Writing:
The launch of the Historic Writers Association, with presentations from over a dozen different authors and book signings. From children’s favourites to Great heroes of history.

Living History:
Explore the living history encampments and meet characters from the Romans to WWII soldiers. Don’t miss the historical market with over 70 traders selling everything a time-travelling adventurer needs. Watch Gladiators in combat and head to the Woodland Glade to hear about the role of Women preparing horses for the Great War.

Members tent:
Hear fascinating talks on a variety of subjects, from historical footwear to blackout knickers, archaeology of the western front to medieval table manners - its all going on in the members tent!

Visit www.festivalofhistory.org.uk or call 0870 333 1183 for tickets & further information.