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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

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.