05-06-2025
Cumbria's Museum of Military Life hosts fourth annual military festival
Cumbria's Museum of Military Life hosted its annual multi-period encampment last weekend.
The Carlisle Castle event, on May 31 and June 1, showcased military history, from Norman knights to the modern army.
Visitors explored tents, equipment, and demonstrations, with medieval combat displays and Home Guard rifle drills bringing history to life.
Home Guard re-enactors from the Victory in Europe Re-enactment Group (VERA) (Image: Cumbria's Museum of Military Life) Rachel Brodie, learning and events co-ordinator at the museum, said: "The re-enactors certainly bring the castle to life and provide visitors with a real insight into army life through the ages.
"The range of activities and demonstrations on offer provides something for everyone.
"It is great to see people having a good day out."
Re-enactors cooking, Norman style (Image: Cumbria's Museum of Military Life) The Parade Square featured military vehicles, including the museum's Armoured Scout Car, while children enjoyed activities in the popular KidsZone.
Ryan Aitken, a re-enactor, said: "This is the 80th anniversary year of Victory over Japan Day.
"Our display with a Far East theme enables us to discuss the Border Regiment's part in Burma and people are really interested in the soldier's kit and equipment.
"We love being part of this event."
Members of the Second World War Combined Forces Living History Group (Image: Cumbria's Museum of Military Life) The event was supported by the Solway Aviation Museum and the Duke of Lancaster's Regiment, with veterans from the Regimental Association and Royal British Legion also in attendance.
As part of commemorations for the 80th anniversary of VE and VJ Day, the museum is currently displaying items from its Second World War collections.
A new temporary exhibition, Gretna 110: The Quintinshill Rail Disaster of 1915, opened on Saturday morning, and is currently on loan from the Royal Scots Museum in Edinburgh.
Plans are now underway for the fifth Military Festival in 2026.
