Viking Raid: Battles, Stories and Hands-On History
30 & 31 August 2026
The Vikings are raiding the museum and skirmishing with the Saxons! Come and see battle re-enactments, birds of prey, listen to drumming (Sunday only), meet re-enactors, take part in the weapons drill (children only), listen to storytelling, row a Viking ship, visit the camp to see what is cooking and the skills and crafts people had during this time such as dyeing clothes and weaving.
For an additional charge, you can make a Viking bracelet, have a go at archery and axe throwing. You can also treat yourself to a bottle of mead in our shop (adults only!).
Talks and Demonstration Times
10.30am Drum circle in the camp (Sunday only)
11am Jarls Court on the Village Green
11.30am Talk on falconry in the camp
12pm Skirmish, archery & weapons display (Skippings Field)
12.30pm Drum circle in the camp (Sunday only)
1pm Young Warriors Assemble (Children’s weapons activity)
1.30pm Viking saga story telling in the barn (Arborfield Barn)
2pm Drum circle in the camp (Sunday only) and Falconry Talk (Monday only)
2.30pm Jarl’s court in the camp.
3pm Skirmish and weapons display (Skippings Field)
3.30pm The Viking ship experience (Assemble at the ship on the Village Green)
4pm Funeral of a warrior interactive display (in the camp)
4.30pm Carnyx at the Iron Age Roundhouse (Sunday only)
Skirmish and Weapons Displays
Discover how Viking warriors trained and prepared for battle. See authentic weapons and armour up close, learn about shield walls and combat tactics, and find out what it took to defend a village or launch a raid.
Discover Ancient Music
Sunday only
Learn the history of drumming, how they are made and how they have been used in communication, warfare and ritual. Join a drumming circle to put your rhythmic abilities to the test and make a lot of noise!
Based on the finds in Deskford , Scotland and Tintignac, France, and affectionately named Desmond, Charlie and Sid, hear a trio of ancient Celtic war trumpets called carnyxs.
Living Encampments
Step into a living Viking encampment and see the Viking Age brought to life. From cooking and craftwork to music and storytelling, discover how Vikings lived, worked and travelled over a thousand years ago.
Meet skilled craftspeople and explore traditional Viking crafts. Learn how everyday objects were made, from tools and textiles to cooking equipment, and discover the practical skills needed to survive in the Viking world.
Hands On Activities
Want to get hands-on?
Join the Viking warriors and get involved in daily encampment life. Watch archery practice, listen to Viking tales, and take part in warrior drills or set sail in a Viking longship. Learn the skills, training and traditions that shaped everyday life in the Viking Age.
Event Information
This is a Premium Admission Day
Free entry for COAM Annual Members
Includes re-enactments of Viking battles
There will be a disabled viewing area in the arena
General Museum Information
With 45 acres at your disposal, there is plenty to explore, including woodlands and an exciting adventure playground
Dogs on short leads are welcome but must not go inside residential buildings
Light lunches, drinks, cakes and snacks are available to purchase from our Skippings Barn
Sensory backpacks are available to borrow (subject to availability)
Mobility scooters are available to borrow (subject to availability - pre-booking is advised)
Lots of free parking
Photography and filming may take place during this event for the Museum archives and publicity. These photographs and video footage may appear in promotional or educational materials including on our websites, social media pages, newsletters, or in newspapers and magazines. If you do not wish to be photographed, please speak to the photographer.