Normans to set up camp at Arundel Castle this Easter

Tuesday, 5th February 2008

Arundel Castle marks the start of the 2008 visitor season with an event which takes it back to its formative years. On Easter Sunday and Easter Monday, 23 & 24 March, experienced re-enactment group Raven Tor will be recreating the Norman period (1066-1200), when the original part of the Castle, the Keep, was first built.

Visitors can expect a tented encampment in the grounds of the Castle with costumed characters performing the everyday tasks of the period, including cooking, sewing fletching and making weapons. There will also be exciting demonstrations of mounted combat and weaponry skills, including archery. Visitors will also be invited to 'have-a-go' at archery themselves. Meanwhile, a storyteller will bring to life enthralling tales from the time of William the Conqueror

As a chance to experience living history for both adults and children, the re-enactments are unrivalled. Raven Tor founder and group co-ordinator, Paul Ullson, who promotes history as a living subject to school children says, "Raven Tor are experts in many re-enactment fields and the end of the Norman period, when Arundel was still a relatively new castle, is a lesser known period in history for many visitors. Castle visitors will be able to talk to our members who will answer questions in character."

The event is included in the general admission for this magnificent, picturesque Castle, home to the Dukes of Norfolk and set in wonderful grounds above the town of Arundel and the River Arun. It is the longest inhabited country house in England with the Dukes of Norfolk and their ancestors having lived there for over 900 years; and sumptuous art, furnishings and armour can be seen inside the Castle.

Homemade lunches, tea and cakes are on offer in the licensed restaurant and the shop has a wide variety of gifts, books and speciality food and drink. Outside there is the chance to enjoy the renovated Victorian gardens and grounds.

For further information contact Arundel Castle on tel: 01903 882173, website: www.arundelcastle.org or email: info@arundelcastle.org