Step back to the Dark Ages at Beeston Castle

The nights are starting to draw in, and the light is becoming dimmer each morning, but Beeston Castle is taking visitors back to an even darker time this October half term – the Dark Ages!

Throughout the half term holiday, young visitors to the castle will be able to find out just what it would have been like to live during the time when the Roman empire had fallen and the Vikings were pillaging their way across Europe! Children will have the chance to try on costumes from the era, from the stately robes of the feudal kings and queens to the much more modest clothing of serfs and commoners. There will even be some child-sized armour and helmets, so parents are advised to bring their cameras!

Beeston Castle’s staff will also challenge visitors to complete a Viking Trail, hunting around the grounds of the castle for a series of small Vikings. Those who complete the trail will then be rewarded with a delicious piece of plunder when they return their completed trail sheet to Beeston Castle’s visitor centre.

“October is always a great time to visit Beeston Castle – the colours of the foliage around the site’s woodland walk are absolutely stunning, and on a clear autumnal day, you can see eight counties from the cliff-top inner bailey,” says visitor operations manager, Mark Hodgson. “With the dressing up activities and Viking trail, Beeston is a wonderful option for visits this half term.”

The site is open daily throughout the October half term week from 10.00am to 4.00pm. Admission prices are £5.30 for adults, £4.50 for concessions and just £2.70 for children, or free for English Heritage members. Beeston Castle is located 11 miles South East of Chester, near Tarporley, on a minor road off the A49.

For more information, please call 01829 260464 or visit www.english-heritage.org.uk/beeston

ENDS

For further media information, please contact: Jay Commins PRO – English Heritage Tel: 0113 251 5698 Mob: 07810 546567 Email: jay@fim.org.uk