Visitors to Dumbarton Castle this weekend can expect to see more than just ancient stone walls and stunning views—they’ll be greeted by Viking warriors. On Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 June, Historic Environment Scotland (HES) will host a special Visiting Vikings event that brings the Norse past vividly to life.
As part of the programme, guests will be able to meet costumed Viking re-enactors, learn about their weapons and battle tactics, and take in dramatic saga storytelling. It’s a chance to explore how the seafaring Norsemen lived, fought, and helped shape the history of one of Scotland’s oldest and most strategically significant fortresses.
Ten Centuries of Scottish History will be brought to life at Dumbarton Castle on 13th and 14th June when approx 100 historically costumed performers and re-enactors will depict key moments from history, from Viking visitors through to World War 2 – picture shows some of the Viking marauders in preparation for their encampment and battles over the weekend – Inar the Black (Ian Boden), Eric the Tight (Iain Whitehouse), Raudbjörn (Sean McKenzie) and Toki (John Sneddon) – picture by Donald MacLeod / HES
Dumbarton Castle, perched on a volcanic rock overlooking the River Clyde, has been a stronghold for over 1,500 years. It played a key role in early medieval Scotland, most notably when it was besieged in 870 by Viking leaders Olaf and Ivar of Dublin. That assault was one of the most destructive episodes in the fortress’s long history.
“Dumbarton Castle has a fascinating history which spans 1,500 years and our Visiting Vikings event is a fantastic day out for the whole family,” said Gillian Urquhart, Events Manager at HES. “Why not come along and meet the Viking warriors to find out more about how they helped to shape the Castle’s story?”
The event is included in the regular admission to Dumbarton Castle. Entry is free for Historic Scotland members. Click here for more details.
Visitors to Dumbarton Castle this weekend can expect to see more than just ancient stone walls and stunning views—they’ll be greeted by Viking warriors. On Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 June, Historic Environment Scotland (HES) will host a special Visiting Vikings event that brings the Norse past vividly to life.
As part of the programme, guests will be able to meet costumed Viking re-enactors, learn about their weapons and battle tactics, and take in dramatic saga storytelling. It’s a chance to explore how the seafaring Norsemen lived, fought, and helped shape the history of one of Scotland’s oldest and most strategically significant fortresses.
Dumbarton Castle, perched on a volcanic rock overlooking the River Clyde, has been a stronghold for over 1,500 years. It played a key role in early medieval Scotland, most notably when it was besieged in 870 by Viking leaders Olaf and Ivar of Dublin. That assault was one of the most destructive episodes in the fortress’s long history.
“Dumbarton Castle has a fascinating history which spans 1,500 years and our Visiting Vikings event is a fantastic day out for the whole family,” said Gillian Urquhart, Events Manager at HES. “Why not come along and meet the Viking warriors to find out more about how they helped to shape the Castle’s story?”
The event is included in the regular admission to Dumbarton Castle. Entry is free for Historic Scotland members. Click here for more details.
Top Image: Photo by Stephen McKechnie / Flickr
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