Jacobite Skirmish At Birdoswald Roman Fort

Relive the past on Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 July

 English Heritage is inviting visitors to travel back to the mid 18th Century as Birdoswald Roman Fort prepares to defend itself against a clash between the Jacobites and Redcoats.

Join the re-enactors of Lace Wars as they come face-to-face in open combat and enjoy musicians, Hautbois. Visitors can watch as soldiers drill, repair their armour and practice their battle skills. British army mounted soldiers will also practice their equestrian skills in full military uniform.

Jon Hogan, events manager for English Heritage said: “Birdoswald Roman Fort probably has the best preserved defenses of any Wall fort and was an important base for some 1,000 Roman soldiers.

“Visitors can imagine the hard fought battles between the Redcoats and the Jacobites as soldiers display military skills with plenty of passion and gunpowder.”

The Birdoswald Visitor Centre provides a good introduction to Hadrian’s Wall, and tells the intriguing story of Birdoswald and the people who have lived there over the past 2,000 years.

The event starts at 11am and will finish at about 5pm on Saturday 14 July and Sunday 15 July and is part of the Council for British Archaeology’s National Archaeology Week.

National Archaeology Week is a unique chance to discover and explore the archaeological heritage of the United Kingdom. During this nine day event that runs from July 14 – 22, people can take part in excavation open days, guided tours, exhibitions, lectures, ancient art and craft workshops and much more.

Birdoswald is 2.75 miles west of Greenhead off B6318 and is signposted from the A69.

Admission is: Adults £5.10; concessions £3.80 and children £2.60. English Heritage members are free.

For a full list of English Heritage sites, admission prices and opening times, visit
www.english-heritage.org.uk/properties