I HAVE always been a fan of all things historical - especially events where you can dress up!
As I have done for the past few years, I got into my pirate-esque attire and excitedly drove to the Colchester Roman and Medieval Festival.
Using the convenient free parking behind Castle Park, found down Catchpool Road, I travelled across the recently-made walkable Weir bridge into the fair.
Dozens of medieval tents, hundreds of period-accurate re-enactors and incredible props adorned the field.
Everywhere I went people were smiling and laughing with their companions - it was a lovely atmosphere that I always look forward to.
The Roman and Medieval setting attracts all kinds of people - families, friends, history fanatics and cosplayers who enjoy the setting due to Dungeons and Dragons.
I marvelled at everyone's outfits - extravagant noble dresses, realistic attire and even elves and fairies paired with beautiful wings and elvish ears.
I was also pleased to see a large array of dice used for Dungeons & Dragons, a fantasy board game I heavily enjoy playing with my friends, on sale too.
Throughout the day there were lots of different events to watch, such as Medieval puppet shows, silly Monty Python-esque theatre shows and lots of fighting.
Crowds marvelled at the Gladiators as they slashed their weapons, Romans as they fired arrows at targets, and knights as they fought with flair.
There were lots of stalls to purchase from - historical decorations, Medieval outfits, jewellery, witchy items and even real swords and daggers for costumes.
And there were even old-fashioned board games to play, mead to enjoy and musicians performing historic songs around the festival.
The festival is a two-day extravaganza of all things periodic, a true celebration of Colchester's rich history in such an appropriate setting, with Colchester Castle looking down from the top of its hill.
I always enjoy my time at the Colchester Roman and Medieval Festival and I love chatting with fellow attendees who are always friendly and welcoming.
As always, I will be back next year - and I would recommend that you come too!
