For those seeking immersive encounters with Britain’s past, these exceptional events bring history to life through meticulous recreations and interactive experiences.
Tewkesbury Medieval Festival
Held annually in July at Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire, this spectacular event recreates the pivotal 1471 battle from the Wars of the Roses. Over 2,000 reenactors establish authentic medieval camps, while visitors can explore period markets, witness cavalry charges, and observe siege weapon demonstrations. The festival’s educational value is enhanced by living history displays of 15th-century crafts and medicine.
Learn more
Battle of Hastings Reenactment
Each October on the original 1066 battlefield in East Sussex, this internationally renowned event features over 1,000 participants in hand-forged mail armour recreating William the Conqueror’s decisive victory. The weekend includes Norman and Saxon encampments, archery displays, and expert talks on battlefield tactics.
Event details
England’s Medieval Festival
Set against the moated Herstmonceux Castle in East Sussex, this August bank holiday event showcases authentic jousting tournaments with knights in full plate armour. Visitors can experience falconry displays, medieval cookery demonstrations, and participate in longbow archery sessions under expert guidance.
Official site
Largs Viking Festival
This unique Scottish event in September commemorates the 1263 Battle of Largs through reconstructed Viking longship landings and combat demonstrations. The festival features Norse craft workshops, saga storytelling, and opportunities to handle replica Viking artefacts under archaeologist supervision.
Festival information
Bosworth Medieval Festival
Held at the Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre in August, this event marks the 1485 battle that changed English history. The recreation of Richard III‘s final charge includes authentic artillery demonstrations, while the living history village reveals Yorkist and Tudor daily life through period crafts and music.
Visitor details
The Victory Show
Europe’s largest WW2 reenactment takes place each September in Leicestershire, featuring full-scale tank battles, Spitfire flyovers, and recreations of D-Day landings. The 1940s home front experience includes ration-book cooking classes and vintage vehicle parades.
Event page
Temple at War
This Essex-based military show in May offers immersive WW2 trench experiences, complete with period field hospitals and radio operations. The 2024 event will focus on Operation Market Garden with airborne reenactments and veteran talks.
Official website
The Dig For Victory Show
Bristol’s September event transforms the countryside into a 1940s wartime village, complete with Anderson shelters and Land Girls demonstrations. Highlights include Enigma machine displays and Home Guard training exercises for visitors.
Leading Reenactment Societies
The Sealed Knot
Britain’s oldest reenactment society specialises in English Civil War recreations with regimented pike and musket drills. Their events feature historically accurate artillery displays and civilian life interpretations.
Society website
Redcoats & Revolutionaries
Focusing on 18th-century conflicts, this group presents balanced portrayals of both British regulars and colonial forces during the American War of Independence, with particular attention to period drill manuals.
The English Civil War Society
Renowned for academic rigour, this society’s events include detailed recreations of Edgehill and Marston Moor, with cavalry troops trained in authentic 17th-century manoeuvres.
Further information
These exceptional events and societies provide unparalleled opportunities to experience history through all five senses, combining entertainment with genuine historical education. Most offer family discounts and special access arrangements for school groups.
Image Credit: Tewkesbury Medieval Festival
