Under Siege at Scarborough Castle!

 

Having walked along the Cleveland way we finished our walk at Scarborough Castle to find it under siege!
The Castle is an English Heritage site and over the August holiday they have been having living history events. The weekend we visited the action was set in 1645 as the Royalist army defends itself from the Parliamentary army.
We could wander through the encampment set in the grounds of the castle and see the troops ready themselves for the siege. Performers played music from the period, there were people weaving baskets, cooking and writing and a ‘Surgeon’ gave a talk about the medical practices of the time. Fun and informative although medical treatments in those days sounded very gruesome. I’m glad I wasn’t around needing hip surgery in those days!
We visited a similar event here last year and my eldest was eager to again join in the children’s drill. The children were first given a demonstration on how to use a pike and then they all had a go, all roaring fiercely! I think last year’s sword fighting with a very enthusiastic performer was more engaging for my son but he still had fun this time and said it was awesome. Boys and weapons! My little lady decided she would sample the ice cream delights from the café on site, although she had her eye on the chutneys and jams that were also available to buy.
We watched the attack of the siege beginning with the call to surrender, lots of booing from the audience and a commentator telling us what was happening. Adding to the atmosphere were a few bangs from the guns.
In between activities going on we wandered around the castle and the grounds climbing to the top of the ruins and looking at the fabulous view up the coast. It was very breezy and after a picnic we made our way back through the castle and back down the hill to start the walk back along the coast.
We all enjoyed our few hours inside the castle and enjoyed the living history event that was put on.
We paid £19.50 for a family ticket. All views are my own and I received no incentive to write this.

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