The summer series of Belvoir Revisited events celebrating key moments in history both real and imagined is packed with showstopping historical re-enactments, live music, street performers and action-packed displays. Kicking off with a bumper 1940s themed event on May 28-29, the wartime weekend is back for its second outing bigger and better than ever.
Swing bands, jazz singers, re-enactors, living history encampments and classic cars will be taking over the castle’s cannonade and front lawn. Taking place in front of the Regency home that itself played an important role offering a secure repository for the National Archives during the Second World War, the 1940s weekend will bring history vividly to life.
Visitors will be able to watch a skirmish display by infantry soldiers, find out what they could buy in a typical 1940s general store, explore an air raid shelter and check out the British and German Encampments. The US Infantry Group will also be making an appearance to share the experiences of the humble infantry soldier, the backbone of the US army in WW2.
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Vintage live music from entertainers performing a host of wartime favourites will be on throughout the Belvoir Revisited event that blends education and entertainment for all ages in the stunning setting of Belvoir Castle and Gardens in Leicestershire. From May to September 2022, there will be a summer season of six Belvoir Revisited events to transport visitors on a journey through history.
Belvoir CEO Emma Stenning said: “Our Belvoir Revisited offer is a great way to enjoy the castle in a new way on every visit and this first weekend is set to be a barnstorming affair. With our new adventure playground due to open this summer too and our ever expanding food and drink offer, Belvoir is a great day out for all ages.”
Belvoir’s artisan shopping village the Engine Yard adds to the destination appeal with pop-up markets, boutique shopping from a range of independent retailers and a carefully curated food and drink offer including woodfired pizza on the outdoor terrace and an all-day menu in the Fuel Tank Cafe to drinks in the Balloon Bar and Afternoon Tea in the Duchess’s Parlour.
1940s Weekend – 28th & 29th May
Returning for its second year running, this nod to the vintage glamour of the wartime-era is packed full of swing bands, jazz singers, living history encampments and a classic car show.
Queen’s Platinum Jubilee – 4th & 5th June
Showcasing the best of British to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, the weekend is packed full of entertainment with jousting, falconry shows, craft activities, live music and a classic Punch and Judy show.
Steampunk Weekend – 25th & 26th June
Experience a futuristic alternative reality powered by steam, top hats and ruffles that dives into steampunk history with captivating performers and a climb up the famous Belvoir Hill.
English Civil War Weekend – 23rd & 24th July
Bringing history to life with gripping battles, drill display and thrilling re-enactments to place you in the midst of the English Civil War era.
Napoleonic Re-enactment Weekend – 6th & 7th August
Journey back to the period in which the fourth Belvoir Castle was built, complete with regency dances and battle sequences as Belvoir prepares for war!
Medieval Re-enactment Weekend – 3rd & 4th September
Encounter the Norman conquest up close with craft displays, fashion workshops, archery shows and battle re-enactments for all the family to enjoy.
Regular visitors can become a 'Friend of Belvoir Castle' allowing free entry to all six Belvoir Revisited events, as well as unlimited access to the house, parkland and gardens whenever the Regency home is open to the public. Annual passes are priced £60 per adult and £20 per 4-16 child with friends and family options available too.
As well as free access to all Belvoir Revisited Events 2022, pass holders are able to access a special £10 ticket price to bring a friend for the day, enjoy a loyalty scheme for the Fuel Tank, Duchess Gallery and Balloon Bar at the Engine Yard and a preferential rate for Belvoir Estate ‘Stay with Us’ rental properties.
To book event tickets, visit www.belvoircastle.com