Corfe Castle siege 5-7 May

More than 300 Saxon and Viking re-enactment enthusiasts will be taking part in a vivid re-enactment of a bloody chapter from the history of Dorset at the castle over the bank holiday weekend.

Weymouth-based Viking re-enactment group Hrafnslith (correct) will be bringing to life the 876AD siege of Wareham at the castle from Saturday May 5 to bank holiday Monday, May 7.

The event is free, though normal castle admission prices apply.

This year’s event features new elements including an expanded King’s court and the introduction of Cornish characters who join forces with the Saxons to repel the Viking invaders.

“It will be an exciting day out with some hands-on activities for kids,” said organiser Tony Thorpe.

“We train them up into a Saxon shield wall ready to face the marauding Vikings.”

The real siege of Wareham pitted King Alfred the Great against the Viking king Guthrum, whose men captured Saxon Wareham in a surprise attack.

Corfe Castle stands in for the beleaguered stronghold as Alfred’s army attempts to re-capture the town.

More information is available onwww.nationaltrust.org.uk/corfe-castle