A Roman centurion, a medieval knight, a Second World War Wren and a fool; these are just a few of the English Heritage re-enactors returning to work at the charity’s properties across the country this summer for the first time in two years since the pandemic. Although many of us will be looking forward to a break over the summer holidays, English Heritage’s re-enactors are champing at the bit to get back to the "office" and do what they do best; bring history to life for thousands of people each year. To celebrate their return to work, English Heritage has released a new YouTube video of their vital (and sometimes bemusing) summer preparations: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/whats-on/summer-days-out/

From medieval jousts to Victorian grand days out, summers at English Heritage’s historic sites are usually packed with events with living history encampments bringing a buzz to its grounds and re-enactors populating castle walls. But since the pandemic, the historic halls of the palaces and forts in the charity’s care have fallen silent as the pandemic and successive lockdowns forced cancellations. Now with the easing of restrictions, it seems there is light at the end of the tunnel and this week will see the return of summer events and re-enactors for the first time in earnest since 2019.

Heather Redmond, English Heritage’s Head of Visitor Experience, said: "We’re so excited to be able to host our events again, particularly our always popular jousting season which kicks off at Dover Castle on 31st July. It will be great to see our re-enactors do what they do best and hop on their mighty steeds to battle for glory once more. It’s been a difficult year for many, but we’re so pleased to be able to welcome them back and we know they are eager to return to the 'office'!"

Mark Griffin, Historian, Re-enactor and occasional Roman Centurion, said: "I’ve been a full time professional historian and re-enactor for over 30 years! What started as a hobby in 1985 soon progressed into a career and I’ve loved bringing history to life and playing so many characters; as a Roman I represent Marcus Classicus Britanicus, a Legionary from the 2nd Legion of Augustus about AD 75. It’s been a tough year especially for everyone in the re-enactment industry and it’s been an ache to be away from work and an audience for so long, but I’m eager to get back to it and optimistic for the future."

For more information about English Heritage events this summer and to watch our re-enactors' back to work preparations as they polish their armour, sharpen their swords and check their costumes still fit, visit: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/whats-on/summer-days-out/