Author(s): Tim Newark

Wars of the Ages

English Heritage arranged re-enacted events every weekend in summer 1998. The largest, in August at Kirby Hall attracted 25,000 spectators and involved over 2,000 re-enactors. The aim was to reveal what it was like to be a soldier, soldier's wife, servant or even child on campaign in Britain. From Roman times to World War II, this "living history" investigates the practicalities of soldiering - what Romans wore under their skirts, how they rode without stirrups, how medieval knights could play leapfrog in full armour and how to fire a musket.