The UK has a rich tradition of battle re-enactments, bringing history to life through immersive displays of famous conflicts. These events, held across the country, feature historically accurate costumes, weaponry, and battle tactics, allowing spectators to witness key moments from history, from the Wars of the Roses to the Napoleonic Wars and World War II.
Re-enactment events often take place at historic battlefields, castles, and heritage sites, with many featuring living history camps, demonstrations, and interactive experiences. Whether it’s the Battle of Tewkesbury (1471), the Battle of Hastings (1066), or WWII skirmishes, these events attract history enthusiasts, families, and reenactors alike, offering a unique way to engage with Britain’s military past.
(Dates subject to confirmation; verify with organizers closer to the event)
1. Jorvik Viking Festival
Date: 17–23 February 2025
Location: JORVIK Viking Centre, York, YO1 9WT
Focus: Viking heritage (9th–10th century)
- Celebrates York’s Norse heritage with combat displays, axe-throwing, and a grand “Strongest Viking” competition.
Event Highlights:- Live battles between Viking clans.
- Craft workshops and archaeological tours.
Contact:
📧 info@jorvikvikingcentre.co.uk
📞 +44 (0)1904 615 505
🌐 JORVIK Viking Centre
2. Living History at The Commandery
Date: 22–23 February 2025
Location: Worcester, WR1 2HU
Focus: English Civil War (1642–1651)
- Reenacts skirmishes from the Battle of Worcester (1651), the final conflict of the Civil War.
Event Highlights:- Musketry drills, artillery displays, and period cooking.
- Interactive tours of the medieval building.
Contact:
📧 commandery@museumsworcestershire.org.uk
📞 +44 (0)1905 361 821
🌐 Museums Worcestershire
3. Battle of Tewkesbury Reenactment
Date: 12th – 13th July
Location: Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire, GL20 5RZ
Focus: Wars of the Roses (1471)
- Marks the Yorkist victory over the Lancastrians, leading to Edward IV’s reign.
Event Highlights:- Full-scale battle reenactments with cavalry.
- Guided walks and medieval market.
Contact:
📞 +44 (0)1684 272 460
🌐 Tewkesbury Medierval Festival
4. Battle of Evesham Reenactment
Date: 2–3 August 2025
Location: Evesham, Worcestershire, WR11 4TP
Focus: Second Barons’ War (1265)
- Prince Edward’s defeat of Simon de Montfort, ending baronial rebellion.
Contact:
📧 info@battleofevesham.co.uk
🌐 Event page
5. Bosworth Medieval Festival (bi-annual)
Date: August 2026 (TBC)
Location: Bosworth Battlefield, Leicestershire, CV13 6AD
Focus: Wars of the Roses (1485)
- Commemorates Henry Tudor’s victory over Richard III.
Event Highlights:- Europe’s largest medieval reenactment with jousting and camps.
Contact:
📧 bosworth@leics.gov.uk
📞 +44 (0)1455 290 429
🌐 Bosworth Battlefield
- Europe’s largest medieval reenactment with jousting and camps.
6. Battles Through History Military Show
Date: 4-5 October 2025
Location: Petworth, West Sussex, GU28 0AD
Focus: Multi-period (Roman, Napoleonic, WWII)
- Tank displays, trench experiences, and battle simulations.
Contact:
📧 info@battlesthroughhistory.co.uk
📞 07759 697 108
🌐 Battles Through History
7. Battle of Hastings Reenactment
Date: 11–12 October 2025
Location: Battle Abbey, East Sussex, TN33 0AD
Focus: Norman Conquest (1066)
- Recreates William the Conqueror’s iconic victory over Harold Godwinson.
Event Highlights:- 1,000+ reenactors, archery displays, and siege engine demonstrations.
Contact:
📞 +44 (0)1424 775 705
🌐 English Heritage – Hastings
- 1,000+ reenactors, archery displays, and siege engine demonstrations.
Key Notes:
- TBC Dates: Events like Battles Through History (July) and Bosworth (August) are yet to finalize dates. Check official websites for updates.
- Provisional Events: The Battle of Hastings (October) is subject to English Heritage’s annual scheduling.
- Family-Friendly: Most events include interactive activities, workshops, and historical markets.
