Last updated 13:30, Thursday, 07 August 2008

SCHOOL’S out for summer, but families in Northumberland will not be stuck for things to do during the holiday as English Heritage begins an events programme at sites in Northumberland, Tyne and Wear and along Hadrian’s Wall.

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Dad's Army: Events at Belsay Hall this summer will have different historical themes. Last weekend featured the 1940s, with an appearance by the Home Guard.

Young people will have the chance to get involved in a variety of adventurous, creative and outdoor activities throughout their school holidays that will not only keep boredom at bay but will also give them some fascinating historical facts about the history on their doorstep to take back to school in September.

From the spectacular range of historical outdoor picnics at Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens to the chance to experience life as a Roman at one of the Hadrian’s Wall sites, there is something for everyone.

Situated in the heart of the picturesque Northumberland countryside, Belsay Hall, with its castle and gardens, is renowned for its 30 acres of magnificent garden landscapes boasting original plantings dating back 200 years, formal terraces, stunning herbaceous borders and a wealth of natural treasures for all seasons. This includes the famous quarry gardens with their distinct micro-climate where rhododendrons can be found in bloom.

Those who enjoy the great outdoors, alfresco dining or exploring grand gardens can enjoy a host of historic picnic weekends at Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens. Each themed picnic will be set around a special era from the 1940s wartime Home Guard to Regency style picnics and 1950s rock ‘n’ roll.

Belsay Hall is one of the region’s top attractions and has something for everyone – a magical place with a fascinating history, spectacular buildings and colourful year-round gardens. Belsay Hall is situated 14 miles north-west of Newcastle, on the A696. Opening hours are 10am-5pm daily until end of September and then 10am – 4pm daily in October.

For those looking for their knight in shining armour or want to experience a clash of steel of medieval combat, visit Warkworth Castle or Tynemouth Priory and Castle for the Medieval Courtly Combat event. The four-day event starts at Warkworth on August 12-13 and then moves to Tynemouth on August 15-16.

Recruitment takes place along Hadrian’s Wall for a Roman Summer of events which are happening every week at English Heritage forts and sites.

At Chesters Roman Fort, in Chollerford, the kids can be crafty Romans with special activities arranged with the Hands On History Crew, running every Monday to Thursday until August 21.

Housesteads Roman Fort is probably the most well known on the Wall and the views from the top have to be seen to be believed. Take the dog for a walk to the fort at the top of the hill (also great for tiring the kids out) and on August 9-10 they can meet the soldiers of the Wall and see their military skills displays, uniforms and weapons.

The Roman Summer culminates in a live action re-enactment event at Corbridge Roman Town. The Gladiator spectacular will transform the ruins of this Roman site into the arena of Gladiatorial combat and equestrian skills. Visitors will be taken back to Roman times with thrilling displays of this ancient sport, plus Roman cookery and pottery skills.

For further details on all events at English Heritage sites, please call 0870 333 1181 or go to the website www.english-heritage.org.uk