Family Fun
What's on for children
Join us in the Hive!
What's on for children...
Bursting with fun for the whole family, the festival features captivating activities, hands-on crafts and live sessions with children's authors. Step into the world of Norse legends at Viking Combat School and train with real Viking reenactors. Whether you are a little adventurer, a curious crafter or a budding storyteller, there's something magical for you at every corner. Explore what's on for children below...
Story Box Competition!
What is it? A story box is a miniature setting, a shoe box-sized stage with a background and objects within it relating to either a specific book, or to a common story scenario.
Why do it? Story boxes are a great resource to support children’s exploration of stories. They form areas in which to retell a favourite story, as well as creative arenas for children to make up new stories too – encouraging talk, imagination and literacy skills.
What can I do? Encourage your child to create one! Choose a favourite story and create a scene from the story using art and craft materials. Share the story box with older or younger siblings asking some of the story box questions.
How to enter? Bring your story box to the Hive between 10am and 11am on Saturday 5th July.
Prizes will be awarded in two categories: ages 7 & under and ages 8 & over.Please click here to get some great ideas.
Please click here to get some great ideas.
Paddock Pass
You must have one to get in!
Enjoy a voyage of discovery as you walk under the ancient gatehouse arch of Repton's Augustinian Priory and on to the main Festival site, where you might explore the living Viking encampment and see families carry out their daily routines, cooking, weaving, candle-making and blacksmithing.
Witness combat displays in which highly skilled, trained and rehearsed warriors present high quality, flamboyant fighting routines live, on land once occupied by Viking invaders.
Enjoy free, live, family festival and street theatre performances of 'The Book-Ends' and 'The Soapsud Sisters' from Rhubarb Theatre and the rich sounds of the "jawdroppingly good" Burton Concert Band. Also included with the Paddock Pass are various entertainments for children. On Sunday, various authors will be giving free talks in the Inferno Book Club.
Admire the beauty of the grounds and gardens now surrounding The Old Priory, in which King Edward I stayed in 1291 and Queen Elizabeth II visited in 1957.
Grab a bite to eat and visit the bar before heading off to your next scheduled event at the Repton Festival 2025.
Tickets are free but still need to be ‘purchased’ so that we can monitor attendance numbers. Tickets are specific to the day. Please contact info@reptonfestival.co.uk to book Paddock Passes for groups of more than ten people.
Tickets are specific to the day | 10.00am to 5.00pm
Free
The Paddock
🎉 Join Attie Lime for a Poetry Adventure!
Step into a world of giggles, rhymes, and imagination with children's poet Attie Lime! Ideal for ages 4 to 94, this lively poetry session invites you to explore the joy of words through playful verses and interactive fun.
Attie brings her delightful debut collection, Blue Jelly and Strawberries, to life with poems that sparkle with humour and heart. From dinosaur poems to rhymes about doughnuts and pyjama pockets, her work celebrates the magic in everyday moments.
Expect a session filled with laughter, wordplay, and a spot of nonsense. Attie's engaging style ensures that children (and adults!) are not just listeners but active contributors to the poetic fun.
Don't miss this opportunity to inspire a love for poetry in your child. Spaces are limited, so book now for an unforgettable experience!
Attie will be selling and signing books after the performance.
Sunday 6th July | 1pm
£4
The Hive
Vikings
Step into the Viking Age at Repton with the Vikings of Middle England This summer, the Vikings of Middle England return to Repton, Derbyshire—a village steeped in Viking history—to bring the 9th century vividly to life. Renowned for our immersive living history displays and exhilarating combat demonstrations, we invite you to experience the era when the Great Heathen Army made Repton its winter stronghold in 873 AD. Repton: A Crucible of Viking and Anglo-Saxon History Repton holds a significant place in Viking history. In 873 AD, the Viking Great Army established a winter camp here, constructing a formidable D-shaped enclosure by the River Trent and repurposing the Anglo-Saxon monastery as a defensive stronghold. Archaeological excavations have uncovered mass graves of Viking warriors and a Viking axe near the church crypt, underscoring Repton's pivotal role during this tumultuous period. An Immersive Historical Experience Our meticulously recreated Viking encampment offers a window into daily life during the Viking Age. Witness traditional crafts such as blacksmithing, weaving, and coin-striking, and engage with our knowledgeable reenactors who bring history to life through interactive storytelling and demonstrations. Thrilling Combat Demonstrations Experience the thunderous clash of steel as our warriors engage in authentic combat displays, showcasing the tactics and weaponry of Viking and Anglo-Saxon fighters. These performances are both educational and exhilarating, providing insight into the martial culture of the era. Recognized Excellence Our commitment to authenticity and education has earned us accolades, including the "Best Historical Re-enactment & Living History Group" award in 2023.
Saturday and Sunday | From 10am until 5pm
Free - Included in the Paddock Pass
The Vikings have tents across the Paddock where you can observe their daily activities and talk to them. Combat displays occur at various times in the Performance Arena
Spooky Fun with Author
Alex Foulkes
Prepare for a thrilling literary adventure as children's author Alex Foulkes brings her delightful tales to life at the Repton Festival! Known for her captivating stories filled with chills, thrills, and a touch of the supernatural, Alex will enchant young readers aged 7–13 with readings from her popular books, including the Rules for Vampires series and the mischievous Ministry of Mischief.
During this interactive session, Alex will share behind-the-scenes insights into her writing process, answer questions, and perhaps even introduce you to a talking spider or two! With her background as a teaching assistant and school librarian, Alex knows just how to engage young minds and inspire a love for reading.
Don't miss this opportunity to meet the author whose stories have captivated readers across the UK. Whether you're a seasoned fan or new to her books, Alex's session promises to be a highlight of the festival.
Come along for a session of spooky stories, engaging discussions, and literary fun!
Saturday 2:30pm | 5th July
Free - included with Paddock Pass
The Hive
Samba Beat
Experience the joy of rhythm in our uplifting Samba Percussion Workshop – a vibrant, music-filled session where young people can discover the infectious energy of Latin percussion. Guided by professional musicians, participants will explore a wide range of traditional Samba instruments, learning how to layer rhythms, follow musical cues, and create exciting grooves together.
This workshop is all about musicality—developing listening skills, coordination, and a strong sense of timing through fun, interactive activities. Whether you are new to music or already have some experience, you’ll be inspired to express yourself and feel the power of playing as part of a group.
The atmosphere is relaxed, welcoming, and supportive, making it easy for everyone to join in at their own pace. It’s not just about learning percussion—it’s about connecting through sound, building confidence, and having a great time with music.
Places are limited—book now and let the rhythm take over!
Suitable for teens and young adults, including those with SEND.
Note that the images do not necessarily represent the instruments that will be used.
Sunday 6th July | 2pm
£9
The Hive
Repton Primary School presents Shakespeare's "Twelfth Night"
Talented, energetic and engaging young actors from The Seals drama group at Repton Primary School present a hugely enjoyable performance of one of the most popular plays in the world, specially abridged by The Shakespeare Birthplace Trust to mark the four hundredth anniversary of the publication of 36 of Shakespeare's plays altogether.
Note that there is no wheelchair access to Pears School and approximately 12 steps.
Saturday 5th July | 10:30am
Free - included with Paddock Pass
Pears School
LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION!
Step Behind the Scenes of Hollywood Magic
Have you ever wondered how your favourite movies are made? This year, the Repton Festival offers an exclusive opportunity to dive into the exciting world of Hollywood filmmaking!
Join us for an immersive, hands-on event where you'll:
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Explore Different Roles on Set: From directors and producers to camera operators and set designers, learn about the vital roles that bring a movie to life.
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Shoot a Scene with Industry-Standard Equipment: Get behind the camera and try your hand at shooting a scene using professional gear that is usually beyond the reach of most filmmakers. Experience the thrill of creating movie magic firsthand!
This special event is designed for aspiring filmmakers. Whether you're a budding director or just curious about the filmmaking process, this experience promises to be both educational and incredibly fun.
Don't miss out on this unique chance to step into the shoes of a Hollywood filmmaker. Spaces are limited, so book your spot today and get ready to yell "Action!" at the Repton Festival.
Minimum age 11; children must be accompanied by an adult. There will be a large repeater screen so everyone can see what the camera operator is shooting!
There is no wheelchair access to the Furneaux building and approximately 5 steps.
Saturday 5th | 11:30am or 1:00pm
£7.50
Classroom in the Furneaux
🛡️ Viking Combat School ⚔️
Training by the Vikings of Middle England
Calling all young warriors! Step into the world of Norse legends at Viking Combat School, where kids can train with real Viking reenactors and learn the art of ancient battle. Led by the fearsome Vikings of Middle England, this action-packed experience teaches children how to wield swords (safely!), form shield walls, and fight like true Viking heroes.
Perfect for ages 6–10, this is history brought to life—epic, educational, and unforgettable.
Are you ready to answer the call to Valhalla?
Grab your helmets—spaces are limited!
Sunday 6th July | 10am or 12.30pm
£5
Performance Arena
Rhubarb Theatre
Two Days of Whimsical Wonder!
Get ready for a delightful double dose of theatrical magic as Rhubarb Theatre brings their vibrant energy to Repton Festival over two fun-filled days!
This dynamic troupe will captivate audiences with two enchanting shows each day:
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The Book-Ends: With a rickety old book cart and some novel ideas, surprises leap off every page wherever our papery pals roam. Join our book-bonkers buddies as they act out tales of whales, bonkers bears and manic monsters. Be amazed as they twist fantastic adventures of pathetic pirates, merry musketeers and hairy hairdressers. Full of music, comedy and general silliness.
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The Soapsuds Sisters: A bubbly adventure featuring two lively laundresses who turn washing day into a whirlwind of comedy and chaos. So pair up your socks, dig out your delicates, separate your silks and let Rhubarb Theatre take you on a spin through a washing cycle like no other.
Between performances, keep an eye out for the duo's delightful walkabout acts. Dressed in whimsical costumes, they'll roam the festival grounds, adding a sprinkle of surprise to your day.
Perfect for families and children of all ages, Rhubarb Theatre's blend of physical comedy, storytelling, and interactive fun promises to make your festival experience unforgettable.
Don't miss this opportunity to laugh, play, and be thoroughly entertained!
Saturday and Sunday | from 10am
Free - Included in the Paddock Pass
Shows take place at The Hive but you can encounter them across the Paddock throughout the day
Stories with Jess
Enjoy a magical storytelling experience with actress and entertainer Jessi Bates-McIntyre! Tailored sessions for different age groups will feature beloved tales like Mr Magnolia and stories by Julia Donaldson and Quentin Blake. Jessi’s lively performances bring characters to life, sparking imagination and laughter in every child. Join us for an unforgettable event filled with fun, wonder, and the joy of storytelling—perfect for little listeners and growing readers alike!
Saturday 5th July | 12:00 for ages 9-12 and will take in longer stories, potentially ghost stories
Saturday 5th July | 3pm for ages 4-7. Potential stories include Julia Donaldson and Blake’s Mr Magnolia
Sunday 6th July | 12:00 for ages 6-10
£3
The Hive
Buy tickets:
Saturday 5th July
10:00 - Story Box Entries...Free
10:30 - Fun Activities & Treasure Trail...Free
11:30 - Lights, Camera Action...£7.50
12:00 - Stories with Jess...£3
13:00 - Fun Activities...Free
13:00 - Lights, Camera Action...£7.50
13:30 - Rhubarb Theatre performance...Free
14:00 - Viking Battle...Free
14:30 - Animation Masterclass...£7.50
15:00 - Stories with Jess...£3
15:30 - Children’s author Alex Foulkes...Free
15:30 - Rhubarb Theatre performance...Free
16:30 - Viking Battle...Free
All free events still need a (free) Paddock Pass ticket
All children must be accompanied by an adult at all times
Sunday 6th July
10:00 - Activities & Treasure Trail...Free
10:00 - Viking Combat School...£5
11:00 - Rhubarb Theatre performance...Free
12:00 - Viking Battle...Free
12:00 - Stories with Jess...£3
12:30 - Viking Combat School...£5
13:00 - Attie Lime...£4
14:00 - Percussion...£4
14:30 - Fun Activities...Free
15:00 - Rhubarb Theatre performance...Free
16:00 - Viking Battle...Free
All free events still need a (free) Paddock Pass ticket
All children must be accompanied by an adult at all times
