Viking warriors bring history to life on Holy Island

Aug 1 2008 The Journal

VIKING raiders have returned to the region for a historical extravaganza.

Holy Island was taken over by an action-packed Viking-themed event, where visitors got a glimpse of the island’s blood-curdling history.

The Lindisfarne Viking Festival, which was held from July 29-31, saw re-enactors set up camp on the island and take a step back in time.

Visitors to the free event were able to watch one-to-one combat action and take part in archery and music workshops, sword fighting and historical musical instrument demonstrations.

David Brettell, of the Holy Island of Lindisfarne Community Development Trust, said: “This year, for the first time, we have a permanent exhibition of the Viking raid which took place here in 793.

“Although the Vikings did far more than just attack, they were ahead of their time in many technical and cultural ways compared to England in that period.”