Historic landmark to host new festival

An iconic Dorset landmark will be hosting part of a national archaeology festival.

Badbury Rings will be hosting a weekend of guided walks, hands on activities and art activities, as part of the Council of British Archaeology’s Festival of Archaeology.

On July 13 and 14, from 10am to 3pm there will be a range of free family-friendly activities at the Iron Age hillfort, part of the National Trust’s Kingston Lacy estate in Dorset.

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A spokesperson for the National Trust said: "Archaeologists and rangers will be there to help visitors explore the history and nature of this special place.

"You’ll be able to explore some of the items unearthed during archaeological digs, have a go at wattle and daub, and discover the location and style of a roundhouse.

"There’ll also be plenty of art supplies for you to draw the rings as it exists today, imagine it in the future, or daydream about the past."

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During the weekend there will also be guided walks, led by National Trust staff led by archaeologist Martin Papworth.

There will be three ticketed walks from Badbury Rings on July 13 from 10am until midday, and 1.30-3.30pm, followed by a walk to discover Roman Shapwick on July 18, from 4pm until 5pm and finally the mediaeval manor of Kingston Lacy on July 23, from 4pm until 5.30pm.

Tickets for all three walks are £10.

On Sunday, July 14 a National Trust ranger will also be offering a free 45-min guided walk,  at 10am and 1.30pm, to uncover the significance of Badbury Rings for both archaeology and nature, and its place among other hill forts in the region.

For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/badbury-rings