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orvik Viking Festival, Europe's premier Viking event, has become a cherished annual tradition for us. Having attended for the past three years, Morticia and I were excited to delve deeper into the festivities this year with an extended two-night visit.
THOR'S DAY
The annual call of Jorvik was upon us! It was time for our pilgrimage to York, the Viking heart of Britain. Armed with flexible 'anytime' train tickets, we were ready for adventure – though perhaps less ready for the standing-room-only experience between Doncaster and York! Stepping off the train just before 1pm, we quickly deposited our suitcase at the hotel (check-in could wait!) and plunged straight into the city, eager to rediscover its ancient magic.
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| Demonstrating ancient crafts at the Viking encampment |
Our York adventure kicked off with a whirlwind tour of the Viking encampment on Parliament Street, followed by a much-needed refuel at the 'Fat Badger' (definitely recommend). A sudden deluge sent us scurrying for cover in the delightfully unique 'House of Trembling Madness', before we finally checked into our trusty Premier Inn.
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| The hotel |
A clean up and change later, we were back in the fray, ready for some "pillaging" (read: enjoying the York nightlife) and we found ourselves immersed in the vibrant atmosphere of 'Valhalla' bar. While other locations offered their own charm, Valhalla's energy solidified its position as the heart of our Viking experience.
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| Cheers |
FRIGG/FREYA'S DAY
Today was a highlight – our first time visiting the Jorvik Viking Centre! It absolutely lived up its promise for me. The reconstructed Viking street, built directly above the archaeological dig, was like travelling back in time to 10th-century Jorvik. The experience was utterly captivating. I revelled in the immersive atmosphere, truly feeling like I'd been transported into the Viking world.
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| Jorvik Viking Centre |
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| Part of the visualisations of daily life in 10th century Jorvik |
This entire trip has been a chance to fully embrace my fascination with Norse culture, and I'm incredibly grateful to have such an understanding wife who encourages me to indulge in my passion.
What truly made the Viking Festival special was the people, the ones that look like me, ones that don't. From the dedicated re-enactors, decked out in full gear (seriously, those outfits were amazing!), to every single person there, the atmosphere was electric. Everyone, regardless of how they looked or dressed were so welcoming and fun. It was a truly brilliant time filled with camaraderie and shared enthusiasm.
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| Out on the town |
LAST DAY
Finally, we caught it – the march. After not getting to see it on our last few visits, this year, we were determined. And it was nothing short of spectacular. The sheer scale of it hit me first: a wave of sound, a sea of faces, a vibrant, pulsing energy that swept through the streets. It was more than just a procession; it was an experience, utterly overwhelming in the best possible way.
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| The march begins |
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| Keeping the crowds in line |
As the last echoes of the march faded, we seized the moment and slipped into the Merchant Adventurers' Hall. Inside, the bustling Viking market. We browsed the stalls, picking up a few treasures before our return to 'Valhalla'.
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| Viking market |
The bar, a chaotic but joyful hub, was brimming with costumed revelers. Viking horns blared, and the clatter of tankards mingled with the sounds of Vikings and Shieldmaidens feasting and drinking, all set against a backdrop of thundering heavy metal.
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| Drinking up amongst the revellers in 'Valhalla' |
Sadly, all good things must come to an end, and with heavy hearts, we reluctantly left the vibrant atmosphere of the afternoon behind, knowing it was nearly time to head home. Our final stop was the 'Blue Boar', a pub steeped in history. Legend has it that after Dick Turpin's execution, his body was held overnight in the cellar, and the enterprising landlord charged curious patrons a small fee for a glimpse.
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| Morticia sitting on Dick! |
Our journey home, however, was far from smooth. An incident on the line brought our train to a standstill in York, adding an unexpected hour to our travel time.
I see this festival as more than just a get-together; it's a heartfelt celebration of our ancestors. It's about remembering their stories, respecting their challenges, and finding joy in their enduring spirit. It's a proper connection to our roots. And maybe next year I'll have the guts to dress up, what do you think?
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