The story of England will be brought to life at the annual Festival of History at Kelmarsh Hall in Northampton this July.

More than 2,000 historical re-enactors, performers and costumed interpreters will present live shows and interactive experiences covering over 2,000 years of English history.

The weekend will include re-enactments, displays and celebrations of English life through the ages. Visitors will be able to watch re-enactments of the 1066 Battle of Hastings and the 1487 Battle of Stoke Field, World War II aerial battles, 15th-century full-contact jousting on horseback, a Victorian gymkhana and events from the 1812 war between the new United States of America and the British Empire.

There will be displays by the skilful horsemen of Prince Malik’s Lancers and by gladiators fighting hand-to-hand. Other events include Edwardian falconry, a Victorian music hall and fashion and beauty tips from World War II. A recreated WWI trench will enable visitors to experience what life would have been like in the Great War. The weekend will include a festival of historical writing and a Family Zone with have-a-go theatre, storytelling and a Victorian Beach.

Kelmarsh Hall is an18th-century house, in a country estate in Northamptonshire, in the English midlands. The Festival of History takes place there on 14–15 July, 9.30am–6pm. Ticket prices range from £12.50 for one day for members of English Heritage to £97.50 for a non-member family ticket for the weekend. Early bird discounts of 15% are available until 30 April.

Kelmarsh Hall, Kelmarsh, Northampton NN6 9LY
Tel: +44 1604 686543 (Kelmarsh Hall)
Website: www.english-heritage.org.uk
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