A Royal Hunt: History Re-enactment Weekend

We are delighted to announce the return of The History Re-enactment Weekend on Saturday 11 – Sunday 12 July 2026.

Join us for an immersive family-friendly weekend where history comes alive with The Marquess of Winchester’s Regiment. Step back in time to the Civil War period as the Regiment re-creates the life and times of the turbulent 17^th Century.

This two-day event features live re-enactments including military displays with firing muskets and cannon fire, officers dining and the feeding of the troops and civilians, plus a live drum jam featuring music from the Civil War.

There will be living history stations within the displays that showcase the lives of civilians and specific military personnel during the English Civil War period, focusing on the story behind the much-loved novel, and later TV show, The Children of the New Forest.

This engaging weekend offers a fantastic opportunity for all ages to learn about and appreciate the rich history of the Civil War era. Whether you’re a history buff or a curious family looking for an educational outing, there’s something for everyone!

The Marquess of Winchester’s Regiment is part of the English Civil War Society, an organisation of enthusiasts that gather to re-enact the English Civil Wars and re-create 17^th Century life.

Please note: Drill displays at 11am and 3pm on the Arena include firing muskets and three cannon firings.

TICKETS & PRICES

*Children under 4 require a ticket, this can be booked online free of charge when booking your adult tickets. 

Living History Stations

From pikemen and musketeers to an artillery crew, see Civil War military displays as they would have been set up in the 17^th Century.

See the mess tent in action as The Colonel of The Regiment dine and see the civilian counterparts showcasing 17^th Century domestic crafts.

Demonstrations showcasing 17^th Century artisans from a flax tent maker, an ale house, a warrener and an apothecary.

2026 Timetable of Features

Make sure to visit the Living History stations throughout the day, you may also be stopped by the Regiments’ patrol around the Beaulieu site!

• 10am: Living History Opens and Troops Muster (opportunity for informal drill, to complete training obligations, and brief on the day)
• 11am: Horse Drill Display in the Parkland Arena
• 11.30am: Infantry Drill Display in the Parkland Arena
• 12pm: Kids Drill at the Military Living History Station
• 1pm: Dinner, feeding of the troops
• 1.30pm: Officers Dining 
• 2.15pm: ‘Drum Jam’ massed drummers and music from the Civil War at the Civilian Living History Station
• 3pm: Skirmish in the Parkland Arena
• 3.45pm: Kids Drill at the Military Living History Station
• 5pm: Living History Closes

Sir Richard Grenvile’s Regiment of Horse

NEW for this year, Sir Richard Grenvile’s Regiment of Horse will be attending the History Re-enactment Weekend offering visitors a chance to experience authentic Civil War cavalry demonstrations.

Try your hand at archery!

Step back in time and experience a skill that once played a vital role in England’s past. As part of our English Civil War themed activities, visitors are invited to try their hand at archery, just as soldiers would have done during the English Civil War.

Our free archery sessions run from 10.30am to 5pm*, with a friendly instructor from New Forest Activities on hand to guide you.

No booking required, simply visit the archery range on the day, take aim, and see if you’ve got what it takes!

Prizes awarded for the best 14 and under or over 14 categories.

*A short break for lunch will take place at 1pm for 30 minutes. At peak times there may be a queue.