2000 years of history comes to life - in pictures

At ease: re-enactors take a break during the History Live! event Photograph: Oli Scarff/Getty Images

Re-enactors adjust their apparel in preparation for battle Photograph: Oli Scarff/Getty Images

Re-enactors dressed as German soldiers from the second world war Photograph: Oli Scarff/Getty Images

A re-enactor waits to come off the bench and join the action Photograph: Oli Scarff/Getty Images

A Viking sounds his horn Photograph: Oli Scarff/Getty Images

The re-enactment highlights include the battle of Hastings, the wars of the Roses, Roman soldiers and the D-Day landings Photograph: Oli Scarff/Getty Images

A re-enactor with his weapon and a tool box. After all, you never know when you're going to need a spanner during battle Photograph: Oli Scarff/Getty Images

First world war soldiers march Photograph: Oli Scarff/Getty Images

A war of the roses re-enactor plaits a child's hair Photograph: Oli Scarff/Getty Images

Everyone take a bow! Archers prepare to take part in the Battle of Tewkesbury Photograph: Oli Scarff/Getty Images

Roman Army re-enactors Photograph: Oli Scarff/Getty Images

Re-enactors present arms - and (almost) spotlessly clean uniforms Photograph: Oli Scarff/Getty Images

Re-enactors relax by their fires at the end of the first day Photograph: Oli Scarff/Getty Images

Women in headscarves relax at the campsite Photograph: Oli Scarff/Getty Images

Re-enactors await orders Photograph: Oli Scarff/Getty Images

Re-enactors share a joke at the History Live! event Photograph: Oli Scarff/Getty Images

Are you sure you're at the right event? This isn't Comic-Con, you know. Re-enactors, some in fancy dress, relax at the end of the first day Photograph: Oli Scarff/Getty Images

Going to Hull in a handcart? No, to Kelmarsh Hall, along with another 2,000 or so re-enactors Photograph: Oli Scarff/Getty Images

A rousing speech before the fray Photograph: Oli Scarff/Getty Images

Re-enactors marching into battle Photograph: Oli Scarff/Getty Images