Vikings clash: copyright The Vikings
Peterborough's famous archaeological site is being invaded by Vikings over the weekend of September 4 and 5.
Take the family along to discover what it takes to be a Viking warrior at this exciting weekend event. You’ll be able to visit the Viking camps to experience life 1,000 years ago, witness battle skirmishes, weapons displays and even try your hand at archery.
There’s no need to book, just drop in and enjoy the many displays and activities, a play performance at 1pm and the main battle taking place at 3.30pm.
Vikings line up: copyright The Vikings
When Time Team’s archaeologist Francis Pryor discovered Flag Fen in Peterborough decades ago he gave the city a treasure of international importance.
If you’re looking for a day out at any time the amazing Flag Fen Archaeology Park gives you a unique opportunity to discover what life was like for our prehistoric ancestors in a reconstructed Bronze Age village.
This fantastic historic attraction lies behind the city’s industrial Fengate area and yet it’s a really tranquil and inspiring place that attracts visitors from far and wide. If you haven’t visited before maybe this is the time to really appreciate this incredible site.
The park sits amid a unique Bronze Age landscape that has revealed a mysterious timber causeway and ritual platform made by people 3,300 years ago. More than 60,000 upright timbers and 250,000 horizontal planks are buried under the ground along with many swords and personal items given as offerings.
You can see parts of the timber monument, a reconstructed roundhouse, rare bred sheep and the famous ‘Must Farm’ Bronze Age boats whilst they’re being conserved.
Apart from the incredible history of this archaeological attraction, the site is also home to an abundance of wildlife and is beautiful on a summer’s day it’s just perfect with a variety of habitats including extensive grassland, traditionally managed hedgerows and woodland and a freshwater mere (lake).
Flag Fen really is a unique family experience complete with a gift shop, a lovely cafe area and outdoor seating. Whether you're enjoying the action of the Vikings display on September 4 and 5 or just want to relax and soak up the atmosphere it's well worth a visit.
Laura Hancock, Heritage Engagement Manager for City Culture Peterborough which now manages Flag Fen says – “The site is internationally renowned for its Bronze Age archaeology, with people visiting from all over the world to see the amazing discoveries and soak up what life was like for our prehistoric ancestors - and it's on Peterborough's doorstep!
"It's just a few miles outside of the city (on the way to Whittlesey), with free parking. It's also on the Green Wheel route - perfect for a cycle ride on a sunny day. Located on the edge of the city."
Laura added - “As well as being a great place to discover the story of Peterborough's prehistoric ancestors, the park is also a haven for nature. It's a wonderful place for a walk with the family, with habitats for all sorts of wildlife including red kites, kingfishers, egrets, water rails, deer, foxes, weasels, dragonflies, and butterflies.”
Flag Fen Archaeology Park is open daily at The Droveway, Northey Road, Peterborough, PE6 7QJ from 10am - 4pm (last entry 3pm) and admission charges apply.
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