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Hadrian’s Wall Live 2016

Hadrian’s Wall Live 2016

This year Hadrian’s Wall Live was on Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th September, with events taking place at both Birdoswald and Housesteads Roman Forts. By day, Birdoswald was the place to be with Romans and Barbarians setting up camp and preparing to do battle. By the early evening, the action shifted to Housesteads as the Romans prepared to defend the fort, and at nighttime the action returned to Birdoswald for a theatrical performance of a Roman ritual. I visited Birdoswald for the daytime event and myself and my mum enjoyed our afternoon, spending more time at the event than we had originally anticipated.

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Lanercost Priory

Lanercost Priory

Lanercost is a small hamlet in Cumbria, which at first glance might appear insignificant, but is actually shrouded in history. Lanercost sits close to Naworth Castle, Hadrian’s Wall and is home to an Augustinian Priory which is now in ruins after being dissolved by Henry VIII in 1538. Whilst there is not enough to do in Lanercost for a full day trip, it is certainly worth a visit if you are in the area or planning to see Hadrian’s Wall.

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Review: Sense and Sensibility, Chapterhouse Theatre Company

Review: Sense and Sensibility, Chapterhouse Theatre Company

I love history, I love Jane Austen, and I love the theatre. So when I heard that a theatre production of Sense and Sensibility was coming to Lanercost Priory for the night, I didn’t really need any persuading to go! It was the first time I’d been to an outdoor production, and also the first time I’d been to see a play by myself, so it was bound to be a memorable experience – but luckily the performance was worth remembering in its own right as well!

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Defending Hadrian’s Wall

Defending Hadrian’s Wall

I recently read a post on another blog from someone currently visiting the UK and the impression that I got is that they aren’t enjoying themselves. This in itself is disappointing, but more disappointing were their comments regarding Hadrian’s Wall. I am a history lover, and think it is great that so many tourists love visiting heritage sites of historical importance when they visit the UK. But it is not great when some people clearly come away just as ignorant as when they arrived, or with completely the wrong impression.

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