Jorvik Viking Festival: Eight great photos of the Norsemen taking over York

Vikings in front of Clifford's TowerVikings in front of Clifford's Tower
Vikings in front of Clifford's Tower
Spring came early for the Jorvik Viking Festival in York this weekend.

The programme of events is based on the Norse tradition of Jolablot - a Viking celebration at the end of February which marked the coming of spring and the end of winter hardships. York Archaeological Trust revived the festival in the 1980s. The schedule now includes a Viking camp at Coppergate, a parade, a feast, spectacular battle finale and even a beard competition. 2019 is the first year that the festival has taken place over a fortnight to coincide with half-term holidays across the UK.

A Viking wields an axeA Viking wields an axe
A Viking wields an axe
Vikings muster in front of York's keepVikings muster in front of York's keep
Vikings muster in front of York's keep
A man takes part in the Strongest Viking contestA man takes part in the Strongest Viking contest
A man takes part in the Strongest Viking contest
Related topics:
News you can trust since 1754
Follow us
©National World Publishing Ltd. All rights reserved.Cookie SettingsTerms and ConditionsPrivacy notice