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History Alive at The Bishop's Palace

History Alive

Summer re-enactment series

at The Bishop’s Palace and Gardens

All History Alive events are included with the Annual Pass and Friends of the Palace.

Our History Alive series brings the past vividly into the present, with immersive re-enactments the whole family will love.

Wander through living encampments, smell food cooking over open fires, watch thrilling battle displays and meet costumed characters as they share their stories.

This isn’t just history to observe, it’s history you can truly experience.

What ‘s On

World War Two Re-Enactment

With Classroom Adventures

1-2 August 2026 | 9.30am – 5.30pm

Step back into wartime Britain at The Bishop’s Palace this summer. Meet costumed characters, enjoy fascinating live demonstrations, discover a genuine air raid shelter and challenge your family with traditional 1940s games.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking for a memorable family day out, there’s plenty to discover throughout the weekend.

  • 4th Dorsets HQ Company

Explore an authentic British Army field headquarters set a few miles behind the Normandy front line. Discover the radios, field telephones, typewriters, maps and equipment used by officers and soldiers of the Dorsetshire Regiment, offering a fascinating insight into military life beyond the battlefield.

  • WWII Anderson Air Raid Shelter

Step inside a genuine WWII Anderson shelter from Bristol and discover how families protected themselves during air raids. Filled with authentic household and 1940s home front items, it offers a glimpse into everyday wartime life and the resilience of those living through the conflict.

Enjoy a series of engaging 30-minute shows throughout the day, exploring different aspects of wartime Britain:

  • Codes and Ciphers (30 mins)

Discover how codes and ciphers have been used for thousands of years, from light and sound signals to secret writing and visual tricks. Cryptography advanced rapidly in the lead-up to the Second World War, and its role in the conflict cannot be overstated.

  • Escape and Evasion (30 mins)

If stranded in hostile territory, what training or equipment would help you survive and give you the best chance of making it home?

And if you are captured, is that the end? For some, duty, determination or desperation drove them to attempt daring escapes. Being a prisoner of war didn’t always mean complete isolation. Sometimes secret supplies arrived hidden inside seemingly ordinary letters from home.

  • A Life on Rations (30 mins)

As U-boats attempted to cut Britain’s supply lines, the nation was encouraged to “Dig for Victory”. From the Land Army to allotments, everyone was called upon to play their part. Nothing could be wasted, and rationing became a way of life.

  • 1940s Games

Step back in time with a collection of authentic 1940s games inspired by the wartime period.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of traditional games at their own pace, returning as often as they like. Some are quick and easy to learn, while others require a little more strategy, ensuring there’s something for all ages to enjoy.

Medieval Re-Enactment

With Bowlore

29-31 August 2026 | 9.30am – 5.30pm

Step back in time this August bank holiday as Bowlore take over The Bishop’s Palace for a weekend of immersive living history.

Across the historical Palace grounds, visitors can explore a bustling encampment and experience what life may have been like in medieval England. From domestic crafts and camp cooking to military drills and skirmishes, this family-friendly event brings history vividly to life through sight, sound and atmosphere.

Bowlore Timetable

🏹 Archery Show

  • Saturday and Sunday – 12pm (approximately 45 minutes)
  • Monday – 10.30am (approximately 45 minutes)

Watch longbow and crossbow displays shooting at a variety of targets to show all different types of arrowhead, and enjoy the thrilling Sword vs Arrow stunt finale.

⚔️ Weapons Show

  • Saturday and Sunday – 2.30pm (approximately 45 minutes)
  • Monday – 2.15pm (approximately 45 minutes)

Discover the use of swords, polearms, quarterstaffs, spears and maces, with choreographed combat demonstrations and a spectacular sharp sword cutting finale.

Both shows have an educational and humorous commentary, with plenty of opportunities for audience participation. Suitable for all ages.

🏹 Have-a-Go Archery & Sword School
Available all days between shows for £3 per person. Suitable for all ages.

🛡️ Hands-on Weapons & Armour Display
Available all days and free to enjoy between shows, including:

  • Talks on medieval battlefield medicine
  • Medieval board games
  • Alchemy
  • Crafts
  • Life in a medieval encampment

Step into an authentic medieval tented encampment and experience history brought to life.

Viking Re-Enactment

With Draca Beordor

12 September 2026 | 9.30am – 5.30pm

Step back in time this September as the Vikings invade The Bishop’s Palace for a day of immersive living history.

Across the historical Palace grounds, visitors can explore a bustling encampment and experience what life may have been like in Viking England. From domestic crafts and camp cooking to military drills and skirmishes, this family-friendly event brings history vividly to life through sight, sound and atmosphere.

Make a day of it

Alongside the re-enactment weekend, visitors can also enjoy:

Frequently Asked Questions:

 

Do I need to book?

 No, you don’t need to book. Our History Alive summer re-enactment series is included with admission, including the Annual Pass and Friends of the Palace.

 

Is this suitable for families?

Yes, our History Alive summer series is the perfect family day out in Wells. With costumed characters, exciting battles, fascinating camps, activities, plus our NEW Splash Play Zone, there’s something for the whole family to enjoy.

 

Do you have more information about the new Dragon’s Lair Splash Pad?

There’s more information about this exciting new addition to our play area HERE.