Rome’s frontier fighting force return to Park in the Past for Roman ‘Auxilia’ weekend 2026
Park in the Past is hosting an exciting major international Roman history event on 30 and 31 May 2026, for families and other visitors, bringing Roman cavalry, re-enactors and experts together for Roman Auxilia: Rome’s Cutting Edge, a weekend of living history, public demonstrations and archaeological finds.
All in an amazing, authentic, full-size Roman fort set in a stunningly beautiful landscape.
The ‘Auxilia’ event celebrates the diversity of the Roman Army, and the many different tribes, from across the Roman Empire, who served as vital auxiliary troops. Auxiliaries were the Roman Army’s unsung heroes – specialist cavalry, infantry, archers and slingers who held the frontier line across Roman Britain.
This year, for the first time, we are theming ‘Auxilia’ around the fascinating story of Caractacus, the rebel British Prince, who led the British tribal resistance against the Roman super-power for nearly ten long years in wildest Wales!
A wide range of activities and demonstrations will be available for the public to chat to throughout the weekend, with re-enactors travelling from across Britain and from overseas to take part.
The fantastic lineup includes
‘Northern Horse’ with their Roman Cavalry doing fantastic equine combat displays.
Jim ‘The Pot’ – one of the most entertaining and knowledgeable historical potters in the UK.
Roman re-enactors from *Terra Dacia from Romania, Deva Victri,, Leg XIIII Gemmina Martia Victrix
Archaeologists from University of Chester and the Portable Antiquities Scheme with real Roman treasures and finds for visitors to hold and inspect
Food and drink, the ever-popular ‘hands on’ children’s activities especially the Kids’ Army, Time Travelers Market and entertainment
And more to come!!
“Roman Auxilia is a fantastic opportunity to bring together public engagement, history and experimental archaeology. Visitors will be able to discover the crucial role of the Roman auxiliaries and see first-hand the life and challenges they experienced nearly 2,000 years ago.”
Paul Harston, Event Director for Park in the Past
“By recreating aspects of Roman military life, we can better understand the realities of surviving as a soldier in Roman Britain”, he added. “It’s a chance to see history coming to life from arguably the most momentous and turbulent period in British history.”
Phil Hirst PR Director for Park in the Past
The Roman Auxilia weekend will offer visitors a chance to step back like never before into the Roman world and experience a packed programme of events, displays and demonstrations suitable for all ages.
Your Auxilia event ticket includes access to the Park and our gorgeous lake, provided you bring the right safety equipment.