Sussex Past gears up for half-term with family activities at historic sites in Sussex

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As the October half-term approaches, Sussex Past have unveiled an exciting line-up of family-friendly activities at three of its iconic heritage properties in Sussex: Fishbourne Roman Palace, near Chichester, Lewes Castle in the heart of Lewes town centre and Michelham Priory, near Hailsham.

Fishbourne Roman Palace: Roman Army Week – Running Daily from 28th October to 1st November, 10am to 4pm

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Youngsters and their families can get stuck into daily activities as trainees for the Roman Army and learn what it takes to become a fully-fledged Roman soldier. From writing their name in Roman letters to mastering sword and shield practice, the new recruits will learn all about what life was like for a Roman soldier and the skills needed for combat. As well as dressing up in uniform, other activities include having a wound painted on and learning about medicines from 2,000 years ago, as well as trying out Roman food, and learning how soldiers would spend their leisure time with Roman board games. Upon completion of the tasks, participating children receive a Roman coin as a memento of their day. Admission: Purchase a general admission ticket below and pay £1 participation cost per child to cover all activities.

Lewes Castle: Firework Fairy and Tinkering Troll Trail - Running daily from 26th October to 3rd November, 10am to 5pm

Have fun at Lewes Castle this half termHave fun at Lewes Castle this half term
Have fun at Lewes Castle this half term

Throughout the half-term period, visitors will be able to explore the castle grounds on a magical self-led adventure where they can search for eight hidden fairy and troll houses, then enjoy a sweet treat as a reward for completing the trail. There will also be opportunities to learn about the famous Lewes Bonfire Night celebrations and uncover the history behind this unique event and the societies that continue to keep the tradition alive. Families can also enjoy dressing up as a king or queen, sit down with colouring in sheets and play games in the Gun Garden. Admission: All activities are included in general admission, with donations welcome.

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Lewes Castle: Bonfire Night Arts and Crafts – Friday 1st and Saturday 2nd November, 11am to 4pm

This will be a chance to get creative with Bonfire Night-themed crafts! Kids will be able to build their own 3D bonfire, design a firework rocket, craft a spinning catherine wheel, or make a royal crown to wear while exploring the castle. For those who prefer a more relaxed environment, there is a Quiet Hour from 10am to 11am. Admission: All activities are included in general admission, with donations welcome.

Lewes Castle: Live Combat, Arming of the Knight & Medieval Surgery, Saturday 2nd November, 11am to 4pm

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The Sussex Medieval Society will take you back in time with live demonstrations of medieval warfare and surgery. Visitors will get to witness the arming of a knight, discover ancient battlefield techniques, and learn the gruesome reality of medieval medical practices. Admission: All activities are included in general admission, with donations welcome.

Michelham Priory: October Half Term: Spooktacular Autumn Fun, 26th-27th October and 1st-3rd November, 10.30am to 2.30pm

Activities over the half-term period include Autumn craft days, a unique story-telling session exploring the history of the black death, a chance to step back in time and learn about the the spooky history of Halloween and lots of other fun craft activities. There will also be a Harvest Hunt walk around the delightful grounds to spot signs of Autumn. Children and their families are invited to come dressed in their favourite Halloween costume. Admission: All activities are free (donations welcome), and best of all, two children go free with a paying adult.

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John Baldock, General Manager of Sussex Past, said: “With something for everyone, make sure you don’t miss the chance to step back in time and enjoy our exciting family events at Fishbourne Roman Palace, Michelham Priory and Lewes Castle this October half term. We look forward to welcoming you this Autumn with a chance to learn about the past, enjoy our range of family-friendly activities and have a huge load of fun.”