Feature /// Extreme sports
EXPERIENCE VIKING BATTLE
The Vikings of Middle England are set to return to Rockingham Castle this August Bank Holiday to recreate their famous and realistic displays. Enjoy the thrill of a live battle complete with crashing swords and authentic costumes. The castle will come alive with battles, horses, pageantry and a living history village providing an immersive and educational environment for all the family to enjoy. Experience the sights, smells and sounds of a Viking encampment, set against the thrilling background of a battle. Step back in time whilst meandering around the village, watching craftsmen making weapons and coins, weaving nets and the healer brewing medicines for all those gory battlefield injuries.
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Experienced bowmen will be on hand to teach their skills, preparing all members of the family to hold their own in a Viking invasion. Against all this excitement, a quiet moment can be enjoyed listening to the storyteller weave fascinating tales to spark the imagination. The castle will also be open to observe the splendid collection of paintings and armour. Built by William the Conqueror 900 years ago, the castle has been the home of the Watson family since 1530. Standing in 12 acres of glorious gardens and boasting a licensed restaurant and tearoom and a gift shop, this is a day out for all the family to enjoy. The event is open from noon-5pm.
FRESHWATER CAVE DIVING
If the thought of potholing fills you with dread, then cave diving really isn’t going to be your cup of tea. Descending into a hole in the Earth to explore a submerged cave system is only for those with no fear of drowning or small, dark, confined spaces. There are plenty of diving clubs in Leicestershire and Rutland. They’re a good place to start – probably in a swimming pool with quick and easy access to the surface. The holes can come later. For the extreme experience Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula has the world’s largest concentration of sinkholes.
HELISKIING OR BOARDING
There’s a lot to be said for grabbing a helicopter (should you have the funds) and flying away from the crowded pistes to the tops of the mountains to be alone with spectacular views and pristine snow. Unfortunately, it’s getting harder to do in many European countries due to strict regulations. For the extreme experience Helisiiking is popular in North America and New Zealand. Alaska’s Chugach Mountains boast some of the world’s deepest, softest powder.
BUNGEE JUMPING
Inspired by the ritualistic land divers of Vanuatu, the modern sport of diving off a ledge while attached to a safety cord was popularised by Kiwi entrepreneur AJ Hackett. The UK’s highest bungee jumps are at Bray Lake, not far from Windsor and at Tatton Park near Knutsford. The 300ft bungee jump happens on selective dates throughout the year and is the highest regular jump you will find anywhere in the UK. For the extreme experience The futuristic Macau Tower holds the Guinness World Record for the world’s highest commercial bungee jump at a terrifying 699 feet. During the five-second freefall you can reach speeds of 140mph, while for the ultimate rush you can even take the plunge at night.