Saxon shield battles, snakes, and sheep as fun family festival returns this weekend
August 23, 2019
People will be able to discover the horrible histories and wonderful wildlife of South Downs heathland as the “Secrets of the Heath” festival returns bigger and better than ever.
Petersfield Heath will be a hive of free family fun with re-enactments of a Saxon shield battle, have-a-go archery, birds of prey demonstrations, a medieval camp and an opportunity to see snakes and lizards.
The free event takes place over the weekend of September 7 and 8 from 11am to 5pm.
Visitors will also be able to bring their dog and have a go at the Countryside Dog Ability Challenge – a fun dog obedience course – with the opportunity to win a certificate and sign up to support the National Park’s Take The Lead campaign.
People can also meet the cows and sheep whose grazing helps to protect the heathlands. On Saturday night there is the chance to join in a bat walk.
The festival is organised by the Heathlands Reunited project – a partnership of 11 like-minded organisations, led by the South Downs National Park Authority, working to protect the heaths for future generations.
Katy Sherman, Activities and Engagement Officer for Heathlands Reunited, said: “Heaths are rare habitats – rich in wildlife and fantastic open space for families to explore.
“But they are under threat and would disappear completely without active management. Secrets of the Heath in Petersfield is the biggest event in our calendar year and promises to be a great day-out for all ages. It’s a chance for people to discover the amazing biodiversity on their doorstep and find out how people have lived and worked heathlands over thousands of years.
“People will also be able find out how they can play their part in saving our heaths through the Heathlands Reunited project.”
The heaths of the South Downs stretch across a 31-mile area from Bordon in the west to Storrington in the east. They include all 12 of the UK’s native reptiles as well as incredibly rare bird species such as the Nightjar.
As well as wildlife, Petersfield Heath is an important archaeological site with 21 Bronze Age burial mounds – one of the most complex in southern England.
Secrets of the Heath will include a range of tasty treats available to purchase from the local scout group, including hot and cold drinks, bacon butties, burgers, hot dogs, and cakes. Award-winning Langham Brewery will be setting up “The Secrets Bar” with a range of ales, wines, ciders and other refreshments over the weekend.
The event is able to run thanks to a generous National Lottery Heritage Fund Grant.