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Vikings to invade Himalayan Gardens for action-packed family weekend

Monday, 29 June 2026 12:01

Viking Weekend is coming to Himalayan Garden & Sculpture Park near Ripon.

The Viking Age is set to come to life at the Himalayan Garden & Sculpture Park as the attraction hosts an immersive family weekend next month.

On Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th July, Viking re-enactment group Vanaheim will transform the park near Ripon into a bustling Norse settlement, giving visitors the chance to experience life in the turbulent Viking Age through authentic displays of crafts, cooking and combat.

Running from 10am until 4pm on both days, guests can explore the Viking village, meet roaming hunters, watch traditional craft demonstrations and enjoy the sights and sounds of a living history camp.

There will also be a mead, beer and cider tent throughout the weekend.

Children can get involved by making Viking shields and clay creations at the Yeti Den, with youngsters encouraged to come dressed as Vikings.

They can also join the popular "Kiddie Vike" session, where they'll learn how to stand in a Viking shield wall.

The main arena programme includes demonstrations of Viking weapons, armour and battle tactics, before the weekend's highlight – a dramatic battle re-enactment in which Viking raiders attempt to escape with treasure stolen from the monastery at Ripon, only to be confronted by the local Saxons.

All Viking Weekend activities are included with normal garden admission. Find out more here.

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