Prepare for battle!
The all-action Saxon & Viking Festival will take visitors back over 1000 Years
Visitors to Stonham Barns Park, the ultimate family entertainment destination in Suffolk, will be transported back in time (over 1000 years to be precise) for a day of battles and re-enactments on Saturday 16 October, from 12noon until 8.00pm.
The Saxon & Viking Festival offers modern day warriors – of all ages – the chance to experience a taste of what life was like in times past. There will be re-enactment groups from around the country for the day of activities around a ‘living history camp’ made up of characters from the Saxon and Viking period – which is referred to as ‘The Dark Ages’.
Each group will give an insight into the way of life and culture which will include insights into cooking, weaving, leathercraft, woodwork, blacksmithing, herbalism, with Saga storytelling and Rune readings. Visitors will be able to participate in ‘have a go’ sessions which will include archery and axe throwing, all handled under the supervision of certified instructors.
Re-enactment displays and battles will take place in the show ring from midday until around 5.30pm after which there will be a big battle finale! A torchlight parade will follow including the spectacle of the ceremonial burning of a Viking Boat!
In the Stonham Barns Park main barn will be activities throughout the day including screenings of Hollywood Viking themed films, local interest Dark Age films, talks on weaving, Saxon and Viking lifestyles and crafts and demos. There will also be live folk music and children’s activities including face painting and pretend shield, sword and helmet making.
A licenced bar will be open throughout the event. Hot and cold refreshments and food will also be available.
Says David Sandpearl of Stonham Barns Park, ‘This event is a mind-blowing festival for anyone interested in history. The characters who attend bring so much energy and enthusiasm to the show – along with a goodly amount of fighting and hostility – to bring The Dark Ages to life. It is a must for families and friends with fun activities everywhere you look. This is one dynamic show. It just rolls out action from beginning to end – it really is as colourful, engaging and dramatic as a show can get!’
This is the second event with fast-moving historical action this year after Stonham Barns Park hosted its History Alive! Show in June which also featured the best of premier re-enactment.
For camping booking enquiries call 01449 711901.
Adult tickets are £10 per person while the under 12’s are admitted free. For advanced tickets and more information call Stonham Barns Park on 01449 711111 or visit www.stonhambarns.co.uk Dogs are welcome, but they must be kept on short leads.
Stonham Barns Park has been awarded the VisitEngland ‘We’re Good to Go’ industry charter mark which verifies that the attraction meets the Government and Public Health guidance on Covid-19. All the required health and safety processes are in place including hand sanitising stations, social distancing and NHS Track & Trace check-in.
