SCOTLAND is steeped in history, but there is only one place where you can see more than 2000 years of history in one day.

The Royal Burgh of Lanark dates to 1140 and is where William Wallace lived, loved and began the real ‘Braveheart’ story.

So it is perhaps appropriate that the town also hosts Scotland’s Festival of History, an authentic look at history in an education and entertaining fashion, and with the help of around 500 specialists from 12 countries.

Held at Lanark Racecourse (thought to be the oldest in Europe), on August 22/23, visitors literally step back in time.

A Roman Legion, still marching to Latin commands, have a small camp reminiscent of the real thing where you can learn about tablets and caligraphy, how they made money, and see their artillery.

Then there are the marauding Vikings, or visit the camps of the medieval knights and see how they lived and fought. Their camp includes a fully working Perrier siege engine.

Elsewhere there is the 15thC Swiss mercenaries complete with very loud cannon; the 17th century soldiers involved in the conflict between the Covenanters and the Marquis of Montrose; the Napoleonic soldiers back from the wars, and the men and women who helped keep our shores safe during WW2.

Throughout both days you can see battle displays and skirmishes by Romans, Vikings, Medieval and 17th century soldiers, and including arrows, muskets and cannons.

Visit large living history displays; walk through the tented warriors encampment, or shop in the colourful medieval trading camp, where specialists from across Europe will be selling furs and costume, weapons and furniture, armour and books, jewellery and a range of other authentic historical items.

Specialist craft demonstrators will show how they hand-made stylish shoes in the 14thC; built houses and made tiles, and a range of other long forgotten specialities.

There is entertainment from some of Britain’s leading Medieval and Tudor musicians, along with dancers, jesters and jugglers and medieval skills children’s workshop.

heritage falconry displays, both flying and static, include owls and a raven, and C; battles; fully working siege engine, children’s activities, and come and try archery.

Learn about Scotland’s past from the resident storyteller, or from the local executioner, with his gory tales of beheading and torture.

And if archery is your thing watch some of the finest archers compete in an international longbow competition for the £3000 Lanark Silver Arrow.

If you tire of the historical aspect there are some more modern attractions – a continental market, a modern craft and food market, or a chance to be photographed with Scotland’s top football trophy, the Co-operative Insurance Cup and win tickets to the next Scottish League Cup Final at Hampden.

Even the on-site catering is different, and includes haggis and neeps, stovies, or made while you wait wood fired pizzas.

The Festival, Lanarkshire’s Homecoming Scotland event, has free car/coach parking and free shuttle bus from Lanark High Street and the local bus/ rail station.

Open 10am – 5pm daily this really is a totally unique event where you can experience history as it happened. Fun for all ages exploring the ages.

For full details www.scotlandsfestivalofhistory.co.uk or the information line at 07963 128365.