Civil War weekend at Killerton

THE National Trust s Killerton estate, near Exeter, is busy polishing cannons and dusting off red coats in anticipation of the annual Civil War weekend on Saturday August 15 and Sunday 16 between 11am and 4.30pm. The cannons will be sounding, the troops

THE National Trust's Killerton estate, near Exeter, is busy polishing cannons and dusting off red coats in anticipation of the annual Civil War weekend on Saturday August 15 and Sunday 16 between 11am and 4.30pm.

The cannons will be sounding, the troops will be marching and the villagers will be scattering for this spectacular weekend which aims to re-enact one of the major historical events from Killerton's colourful past.

The Acland family, who owned the Killerton estate, played an important part in the English Civil War.

You can step back in time and meet the working people of the Civil War. See the men summoned to serve and then trained as soldiers and meet the officers when they host a meal for Lady Acland.

Hear muskets fire and smell the smoke of gunpowder, but above all experience everyday life in camp.

An exciting re-enactment of the 'Commission of Array' will take place at 11.30am on both days. This brings to life the moment when Sir John Acland attempted to recruit more soldiers to the Royalist cause, but struggled against Parliamentarian hecklers. This event will include a spectacular weapon demonstration by the camp.

Normal admission charges apply for this special weekend event. Admission is free for National Trust members.