CLASH OF THE CENTURIES AT CAERLAVEROCK

EXPERIENCE THE DRAMA AND EXCITEMENT OF SCOTLAND’S HISTORY

AT ONE OF OUR MOST STUNNING STRONGHOLDS

The imposing medieval bastion of Caerlaverock Castle near Dumfries is the dramatic setting for a spectacular celebration of 2,000 years of Scotland’s history on Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd August, 2009.

Re-enactors from all over Britain will be converging on the stunning stronghold to present colourful living history displays and performances depicting past eras right up to the 20th century in what promises to be an entertaining event for all the family.

 

Romans, Vikings, Medieval Scots, Redcoats, Covenanters and soldiers from World Wars I and II will all feature in the action-packed programme.  Visitors will be able to see exciting chronological highlights from all the eras, with authentic period displays, including weaponry demonstrations, being presented in a central arena.

Historic Scotland Events and Filming Manager Nick Finnigan said: “Caerlaverock is a marvellous atmospheric backdrop for historic re-enactments and our ‘Clash of The Centuries’ tribute to Scotland’s great history, featuring a fantastic cast of characters from the past and a host of entertaining themed events, should be a memorable treat for visitors of all ages.” 

People signing up to Historic Scotland membership at the event will gain free entry as part of their membership.  Claire Smith, Historic Scotland Members manager, said:  “We have found membership really popular this year as it provides a really great solution at fantastic value for days out all year long with the family.  Family memberships is as little as £6.16 a month.” 

Clash of the Centuries at Caerlaverock on both Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd begins at 12 noon, with the entertainment carrying on until 4.00pm.  Admission for either day is: adults £7, concession £5.75 and children £3.50. Value options are family tickets or Historic Scotland membership, available on the day.

Tickets can be bought on the day or purchased online in advance to beat the queues and save 10% from the Historic Scotland website: www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/shop

 
DETAILS:

·     Caerlaverock Castle is situated 8 miles south-east of Dumfries on the B725. Postcode DG1 4RU.  Tel: 01387 770244.

·      With its moat, twin-towered gatehouse, and imposing battlements, Caerlaverock Castle is the epitome of a medieval stronghold.  The castle’s turbulent history owes much to its proximity to England which brought it into numerous border conflicts over the years.

·      The castle was built by the Maxwell family, who enjoyed peaceful prosperity there until the invasion of Scotland by Edward I.  The castle became a target for Edward’s wrath against Scots resistance and, in 1300, Lord Maxwell was forced to surrender to the might of the besieging army.  Caerlaverock remained caught up in border disputes for many years afterward and peace did not come until James VI’s accession to the English throne in 1603.  The truce collapsed with the 1640 Civil War and the final siege at Caerlaverock came when the Royalists surrendered to the Covenanters.

    * Caerlaverock Castle is just one of 345 outstanding heritage properties and sites in the care of Historic Scotland.  Ranging from prehistoric dwellings to medieval castles, and from cathedrals to industrial buildings, these include some of the leading tourism attractions in the country. Among the most popular are Edinburgh, Stirling and Urquhart Castles, Skara Brae, and the Border Abbeys.  For further details of all of Historic Scotland’s sites visit: www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/places.

    * Historic Scotland’s Mission is: to safeguard Scotland’s historic environment and to promote its understanding and enjoyment.

    * Historic Scotland is delighted to be supporting the 2009 Year of Homecoming with a series of initiatives including family trails, spectacular events and the creation of a Homecoming Pass for heritage attractions in association with other heritage organisations.

Photo courtesy of Historic Scotland