STEP BACK in time on Bank Holiday Monday 3 May to an era of trickery, execution and war. Chiddingstone Castle, near Edenbridge in Kent, is holding a battle-themed activity day where you can learn about the gruesome times of 1642, the start of the English Civil War. There'll be fighting demonstrations, and you can try mini jousting and learn pike drills. The castle, which dates back to the 1500s, is set in 35 acres of park and woodland, with a rose garden, a lake and an orangery, and a Victorian tearoom. It was the home of Denys Eyre Bower between 1956 and 1977, who collected many beautiful works of art and artefacts. Many of these are on display today.

Beastly Battles 3 May, 11am-last entry 4.15pm. The castle and grounds is open to visitors from Easter to late September. Admission: adults £7, children £2 and £4. Parking £2.50. Tel: (01892) 870347; www.chiddingstonecastle.org.uk.