Immersive events throughout the year
Perfect for school visits
History meets fun
Immersive events throughout the year Perfect for school visits History meets funTravel back thousands of years
Rituals that time forgot. Epic battles. Quirky pastimes. At our open-air living history sites you can explore the chapters of your favourite history book in an immersive and unforgettable way.
Expertly recreated with authenticity at the heart, spark your imagination and learn about life as a Viking and Roman.
With extra special events peppered throughout the year, led by talented reenactment groups, we believe that learning about history is an experience that should be lived—literally.
Exploring All Eras
Roman fort
Our 1st century Roman fort will have you imagining life as a recruit, transporting you back to ancient times.
viking village
We wouldn’t be a York tourist attraction without honouring our rich Viking heritage. We go step further by bringing the experience of living as a viking settler to life, complete with authentic structures.
pre-historic village
Only available for school visits, our Stone Age village teaches pupils about the lives of our distant ancestors with hands-on activities and guided explorations.
ww2 evacuee area
Only available for school visits, this features an ARP Wardens Post, two Anderson shelters, a bunker shelter, and a mockup of a bombed outbuilding. Pupils can travel back in time to the Homefront and experience the resilience and spirit of wartime Britain.
Organising a school trip?
History lessons leap off the page with our immersive on-site and in-school activity days
FIND OUT MOREFAQs
Are the living history sites available to visit every day?
Our living history sites are privately hired by school groups Mon-Fri during term time, so access is sometimes limited or not available throughout the week. If you want to check your favourite site is open before you visit, we recommend calling ahead by contacting our team.
Will I see reenactment groups when I visit?
You’ll have to double check our timetable if you want to catch a real-life Viking or Roman in action. We have themed events and activity days throughout the year. Plan your visit by checking Whats On.
Why can’t I visit the pre-historic site?
The site is closed most of the year to visitors, as it’s exclusively used for our School Educational Experiences. But, we occasionally host special events – keep an eye on What’s On or connect on Facebook for the latest updates.
EXPLORE NEXT
Animals
Make new furry friends.
Café
Refuel and recaffeinate at the Yorkshire Barn Café
Indoor & Outdoor Play
Keep the little ones happy, whatever the weather
Railway
Take a (weekend) ride on the Derwent Valley Light Railway
Events
Mark your calendars with seasonal activity days and reenactment events
