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First World War Event at Royal Gunpowder Mills - 31st July & 1st August 2010

More than a century after the end of the Great War, the Royal Gunpowder Mills in Waltham Abbey EN9 1JY is taking visitors back in time with a fascinating First World War Event this weekend 31st July & 1st August 2010.

With more than 15 different living history, re-enactment and other historical groups taking part this is one of the largest events of its kind.

Things to see and do include displays of WWI guns, a full-size replica of a WWI trench, military memorabilia, drill displays, battlefield archaeology and a Dog Fight between a Nieuport 17 and a Fokker Triplane on Sunday at 3.00pm - presented by The Great War Display Team (weather permitting).

Visitors will also be able to watch mounted cavalryman alongside soldiers from the Eastern Front, a recreation of life during wartime in France and the Pipes and Drums of the Bedford Pipe Band.

Other highlights include Jasmine the Camel and Trooper Martin from the Imperial Camel Corps and a soldier of the 8th Essex Cyclist Battalion - complete with bicycle.

There will be a British Army Recruiting Office, along with information on the role of women at Waltham Abbey during the Great War.

The Royal Gunpowder Mills was one of the most important suppliers of explosives and propellants to the British Armed Forces in WWI.

During this time the Mills increased staff by around 3000 to a total of 6230. The 3000 additional workers were largely female, recruited from the surrounding area and this was a significant social phenomenon.

Such was the importance of the site that in 1916 it received the only mobile anti-aircraft gun in all of south East England to defend it from Zeppelins.

Set in 170 acres of natural parkland and boasting 20 buildings of major historic importance, the Royal Gunpowder Mills mixes fascinating history, exciting science and beautiful surroundings to produce a magical day out for all the family.  Established in the 17th century and acquired by the Crown in 1787, the site has played a key role in the history of Great Britain through the centuries.

For a full schedule of activities and times, please see their website: http://www.royalgunpowdermills.co.uk/

Events Schedule 2010

7/8 August - Classic Car Show

14/15 August - English Civil War Event

21/22 August - Medieval Event with Jousting (Knights of Arkley)

28/29/30 August - Robin Hood

11/12 September - Home Front Event

25/26 September - Multi Period Re-enactment

6/7 November - Meet Guy Fawkes and Friends and Firework Display

11/12 December - Victorian Christmas and Pantomime

New for 2010 the Royal Gunpowder Mills will be open EVERY day of the school summer holidays with a wide variety of children's activities!

Contact Details

Address: Royal Gunpowder Mills, Beaulieu Drive, Waltham Abbey, EN9 1JY

Tel: 01992 707370

Email: info@royalgunpowdermills.com

Website: http://www.royalgunpowdermills.com/

Opening Times: 11.00am-5.00pm (last entry at 3.30pm)

Additional Details 

Facilities: Gift shop, picnic area, cafe, award winning exhibitions, nature walks and car park.  Land train rides available, please book on entrance as this ride is very popular.  Additional fee of £2.00 for adults and £1.00 for children.

Parking: Free car park available and only 20 mins walk from Waltham Cross train station.

Accessibility: Most of the site is wheelchair and pushchair accessible.  Disabled toilets available.  Only assistance dogs are allowed on the site and they must remain on their harness at all times.

Admission: Adults £7.20, Children £4.40, Concessions £6.20, Under 5's Free, Family Ticket £23.20 (2 adults and up to 3 children).

Season Ticket:  If you are thinking of visiting more than twice during the year it is well worth looking at a Season Ticket.  They offer a reduced rate for Waltham Abbey residents: Adults £18.25, Concessions £15.75, Family Ticket £55.25 (2 adults and up to 3 children), Single Parent Family Ticket £38.25 (1 adult and up to 3 children) which gives you unlimited visits including every day in August Children's Activity days in the school summer holidays.

Why not treat yourself to a season ticket this year and look forward to some exciting days out in 2010!

Volunteering 

The Royal Gunpowder Mills are looking for more volunteers, particularly for August, when they will be open every day, for more information please see their website: http://www.royalgunpowdermills.com/volunteer_page.htm  or email Liz Went Volunteer Co-ordinator on ewent@royalgunpowdermills.com

Volunteering is enjoyable, worthwhile, challenging and satisfying - why not consider joining their enthusiastic and committed team of volunteers without whom they would be unable to open to the public.

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