Friends, Romans and re-enactors

A living history pageant, from ancient Greeks to the Space Race, is taking place at Broadlands, Hampshire, 7-8 August.

 

Roman soldiers at re-enactment

The re-enactment day-out used to take place at Cliveden in Buckinghamshire but has moved this year to a larger, very picturesque location in the grounds of the home of the late Earl Mountbatten of Burma. This spectacular will have re-enacted battles, encampments and a WWII fly-past. Look out for Greek Hoplites, Roman soldiers, Dark Age warriors, medieval knights, 18th-century redcoats, and 20th-century Tommies. There will also be more peaceful scenes of domestic life, including an mix of medicine, fashion – and the almost unknown British moonshot of 1939. You can also join in and have a go at medieval archery, a Civil War soldiers’ drill, or the chance to learn Second World War fighter tactics.

Set in the Test Valley at Romsey, Hampshire, Broadlands is the home of Lord and Lady Brabourne and their family. The house is closed to the public for a major refurbishment and is due to reopen to visitors in 2012. In the meantime, a programme of events still takes place each year in the grounds.

Broadlands, Romsey, Hampshire SO51 9ZD. Tickets: all sold on the gate, £10 adults, £5 children. Open: 11am-5pm. Click here for more information.

Lancaster bomber at the re-enactment