Bracknell

For those who have ever wondered what Bracknell was like in days of yore, Bracknell Forest Borough Council is planning a treasure trove of Iron Age themed events that will set the imagination on fire!

On Thursday September 1, Iron Age Adventures takes place with Iron Age fun and activities at Larks Hill, an open wildflower meadow and orchard next to Harvest Ride, Warfield, Bracknell.

Larks Hill was chosen for the event because it is extremely close to the site of an Iron Age Farm site.

The day aims to give children a hands on experience of typical Iron Age activities such as face-painting and corn grinding, and creating their own iron age hut!

Children will also get the chance to try their hands at archaeology with proper tools and a temporary dig using containers and soil.

Reading Museum is supporting the event, with archeologists from Reading University to help bring history to life.

The second event, Warriors in the Woods on Saturday, September 10, will let visitors travel back in time by seeing real life iron age battles at Caesar's Camp, an Iron Age Hill Fort, owned by The Crown Estate and close to The Look Out Discovery Centre, Bracknell.

The day will include archeological and wildlife tours around the ramparts of the fort, run by Borough Council rangers and archeologists from the Berkshire Archeological Trust.

The grand finale of the day at Caesar's Camp will be an Iron Age battle re-enactment by Brigantia – an Iron Age re-enactment group who perform mock battles around the country and for television.

It is hoped that any survivors of the battle will be available to chat to the public about life in Iron Age times!

Councillor Mrs Dorothy Hayes, Heritage Champion, said: "We hope that this event will bring Caesar's Camp's history to life for local people, and that it will showcase this very special aspect of Bracknell Forest's landscape."

Councillor Iain McCracken, Executive Member for Leisure and Corporate Services, said: "Our history and heritage are what makes us who and what we are and this is a fantastic opportunity to get out and about and see something truly unique, something we should safeguard and look after.

"I hope that residents and visitors alike will take advantage of these great days out."

Iron Age Adventures
Thursday September 1, 2pm
Cost £1, meet at Larks Hill car park off Harvest Ride. Pre-booking essential, tel: 01344 354441

Warriors in the woods, Caesar's Camp
Saturday September 10. There will be group walks at: 11am, 1pm, 3pm Cost £1, pre-booking essential as numbers are limited.
Tel: 01344 354441

Visitors parking at The Look Out carpark for this event should allow plenty of time to walk unaccompanied through the forest, distance is approximately one mile and the way will be marked with posts.