The Viking Camp
During much of the day you will find us in our Living History Encampment where we practice crafts typical of the period and prepare our meals around the camp fire.
Please feel free to come up and chat to any of us and see how things used to be made. We can demonstrate our crafts and let you have a close up look at the kind of artefacts that were made by them.
We can also discuss the broader aspects of Viking life from trade and travel to the history of the Vikings and laws and customs that they lived by.
The history of the period is a passion for us and if you have a question about the Vikings and the time period, the chances are that one of us will be able to provide the answer.
Textiles
Everything that was worn along with other textiles including the sails of a Viking longboat were of course made by hand. You will see the kinds of clothes Vikings wore, which are more colourful than you might expect.
In addition to the sewing of clothing, we practice the ancient arts of Nalebinding, Sprang and Tablet Weaving.
If you are curious about what these are then come and talk to us and see the kinds of things that were made by such techniques
Food
Travelling the known world, trading, raiding or just keeping your farm in good order builds up an appetite, and food and drink was as important then as today.
We cook meals based on recipes and using ingredients appropriate to the time period and season. We can discuss with you what was eaten and when and the types of cooking that would be done.
We do ask you to keep a safe distance from the camp fire at all times.
Metal Working
The working of metals was seen as a mysterious art and in some ways akin to magic for the average person.
The forging of iron and steel into tools, weapons and armour was crucial to Viking society and such things were of great value from the finest pattern welded sword to the humble nail used in the construction of ships.
We periodically have displays of blacksmithing which can be viewed from a safe distance.
The Vikings also loved their jewellery, both to show their status and as a convenient way to carry their wealth. Chester has a long history of Silversmithing which it is believed began around this period and many hoards of coins and jewellry have been found around the north west of England.
You will be able to watch typical pieces being created using tools and techniques of the time. Learn the mysteries of knit weave chains, try some on, and get a picture yourself wearing the ransom of a prince.