Home > News > 2007 > 7 > 17 >

'Living History' summer events on the Isle of Wight

The past comes to life this summer with a series of 'living history' events being held at some of the Isle of Wight's oldest and most famous landmarks. Step back in time to witness life on the Island in centuries gone by in some of the most elegant and historic surroundings.

Appuldurcombe House

On 28/29 July there will be a 'Medieval Spectacular' at Appuldurcombe House. Each afternoon, a full battle will commence in the grounds of the elegant country house. Marvel at the skills of the archers and sit in awe as the men at arms parade in front of you.

Also coming to life at Appuldurcombe House are 'The Soldiers of George III'. On 10th, 11th, and 13th August the grounds of the 18th century house will come to life with infantry and artillery displays, and the live firing of cannons will echo around the gardens.

Opening times at Appuldurcombe House are 10am to 4pm and full event timings for both re-enactments will be available on the day. Prices start from £3.25 for an adult and £2.25 for a child. For more information visit www.appuldurcombe.co.uk or tel. 01983 840188 / 852484.

Arreton Manor

The turbulent summer of 1642 is where you will end up if you visit Arreton Manor between 5th and 12th August. The renowned Church, State and Household Living History Group will be recreating the moment when Royalist and Parliamentary troops fought over the first prize of the English Civil War - The Isle of Wight. There will be drill displays, courtly dancing, swordplay, and authentic cooking from the period, so make a date in your diary for a trip back in time to the 17th century!

Arreton Manor is open from 10am to 5pm and prices are £5.25 for an adult and £2.25 for a child (under 5's are free). For more information about this event or for further details about Arreton Manor visit www.arretonmanor.co.uk or tel. 01983 522604.

Carisbrooke Castle

One of the most recognisable historic landmarks on the Isle of Wight is Carisbrooke Castle. Famous for being the home of Charles I when he was imprisoned for fourteen months before his execution in 1649, the castle site possibly dates back to pre-Roman times.

The Carisbrooke Castle Treasure Hunt - Children can have fun searching for a hidden treasure chest - giving them the chance to win a key to their favourite castle for a year - in the grounds of historic Carisbrooke Castle every day in August. From 10am-5pm children, armed with a free treasure map, can explore the site in search of simple clues, which will lead them on a quest to discover the chest and a key, which will 'unlock' a small prize for every finder.

On 19th and 20th August, however, the castle grounds will play host to the smelliest, goriest, and most gruesome aspects of the past. Discover the horrors of medieval disease, witness the methods of a 17th century surgeon compete with leeches, and visit the singing plague victims. Find out who has the worst job in the castle, is it the rat catcher or the servant who has to empty the guarderobes? You can even have your face painted with the pox!

Carisbrooke Castle is also home to the 'Medieval Joust' during August Bank Holiday (25th - 27th August). Fearless knights will be travelling at speeds of up to 60 miles an hour in a real life battle of skills. Watch practice sessions where straw men and cabbages will be speared by lances, before picking your favourite knight for the joust itself at 3pm. There will also be entertainment from Peterkin the fool and music from the time, or you can join in the jester workshop and learn the skills of the joker yourself!

Both Carisbrooke Castle events run from 10am to 5pm and entry prices vary. For more information visit www.english-heritage.org.uk/server/show/ConProperty.177 or tel. 01983 522107.