"Secrets of the Heath is about sharing the unknown history of South Downs heathland and what makes these rare and beautiful places so special. We’re really excited to be bringing the event to Petersfield Heath again this August.
Heaths are very rare habitats rich in wildlife and they’re also a fantastic open space for families to explore. But many people don’t realise that they’re under threat and would disappear completely if they aren’t actively managed. This event is a chance for people to come face-to-face with heathland characters from pre-historic to present times. Come and find out how people have lived and worked the heath over thousands of years and how you can play your part today.
Throughout the day there will be a programme of displays and re-enactments in the arena including:
Roman soldiers
Medieval warriors
falconry
the highway woman
In addition there will be many stalls and demonstrations from making Stone Age flint tools and birch brooms to meeting the snakes and lizards that inhabit our heathland and the cows and sheep that graze it.
Other highlights will include rides in dug out Mesolithic boats on Petersfield Lake, storytelling and wildlife walks. A new addition to the programme is a bat walk on Saturday evening to celebrate International Bat Night
At 2.00 each day Peter Price will lead an archaeology tour of the Bronze Age Barrows of Petersfield Heath.
Hot snacks, such as pizza and hot dogs, will be available to buy along with local beer and ice cream"
