Living history at Bodiam Castle
Embark on a journey through history at Bodiam Castle - where the past comes alive! Get involved with our living history events, where you'll meet historical figures and discover stories from long-ago.
What's on in 2025
Have-a-go archery
Have a go at the medieval sport of longbow archery against the backdrop of Bodiam Castle. Learn how to get to grips with a bow and arrow from friendly instructors.
- 3–5 May
- 1–31 Aug
10.30am–4pm
£4 for 6 arrows, normal admission applies.
Suitable for adults and children aged 7+.
This open-air activity is weather dependent, and occasionally may need to be changed or cancelled at short notice.
Demonstrations by Call to Arms
Call to Arms is a group of volunteers with a passion for history and training in Historical European Martial Arts. Dressed in full armour, they show what medieval combat may have looked like, through showing weapons and explaining techniques. Members of Call to Arms will be available to answer questions.
- 17 May
- 21, 5 & 6 Jul
- 7 Sep
10.30am–3.30pm | Displays will be held at 11.30am and 2.30pm.
Free, normal admission applies.
Medieval Encampment
Walk through a medieval encampment in the castle grounds, meet characters from the 1400s and discover more about the medieval way of life, from the boardgames people played to skills like weaving and leatherwork. Enter the arena to listen to weapons talks, dress the knight, watch sword demonstrations and more.
Company of the Phoenix 10am–4pm:
- Saturday 24 May to Monday 26 May
- Saturday 28 May to Sunday 29 June
The House of Bayard 10am–4pm:
- Saturday 26 July to Sunday 27 July
Knights and Castles
Join Sir Stephen de Blenerhayset and Lady Eleanor for an unforgettable journey into the 'high life' of the Middle Ages. This family-friendly event at Bodiam Castle offers a unique blend of history and interactive fun, perfect for visitors of all ages.
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26 July & 27 July
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9 August & 10 August
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16 August & 17 August
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30 August & 31 August
11am–3pm. Free, normal admission applies.
Knight and Viking School with Histrionics
Join us for a fun-filled day for the entire family as you discover what it takes to be a real knight or Viking!
- 31 July to 3 August
- 21 August to 25 August
10am–4.15pm, drop-in throughout the day. Free, normal admission applies.
Stay up to date with the latest living history events at Bodiam Castle by regularly checking this page as more events will be added throughout the year.
A brief history of Bodiam Castle
Discover the history of Bodiam Castle. Find out who built it, its royal connections and what historic graffiti can tell us about the castle’s past.
Family-friendly things to do at Bodiam Castle
Discover things to see and do on a family visit to Bodiam Castle. Join in with activities and let your imagination run riot in this Medieval setting.
The grounds of Bodiam Castle
Discover what to see and do in the grounds of Bodiam Castle. Take a riverside walk, stop for a picnic or look for wildlife – from rare bees to bats.