A SPECTACULAR Iron Age chariot build, Roman soldiers marching through a recreated camp, and a 105-year-old war veteran sharing memories of flying missions over Germany – this summer’s Chalke History Festival is shaping up to be one of its most immersive yet.

Running from June 22 to 28 near Salisbury, the much-loved festival is promising far more than big-name speakers, with hands-on history, live reconstructions and powerful storytelling taking centre stage.

One of the biggest talking points this year will be a team of skilled artisans attempting to reconstruct a late Iron Age Romano-British chariot using ancient techniques.

Built from archaeological evidence, the ambitious project will unfold live during the week, offering visitors a rare glimpse into the craftsmanship of the ancient world.

History won’t just be something to listen to – it will be something to experience.

(Picture: Steve Chick)

Visitors can step inside a Roman military encampment, watch demonstrations of ancient adhesives and explore how early ceramics changed human history.

Of course, the festival still boasts a star-studded line-up.

National favourites Mary Berry and Alan Titchmarsh will appear together, while actress Harriet Walter will discuss representation in the arts.

(Picture: Martin Cook)

Popular historians and broadcasters including Tom Holland, Dan Jones and Al Murray are also set to draw big crowds.

But beyond the celebrity names, the programme leans heavily into the big questions shaping today’s world.

With global tensions rising, historians and experts will tackle how past conflicts continue to shape modern geopolitics — and whether lessons from history are being ignored.

There is also a strong focus on the Second World War, with talks ranging from SAS missions to the sinking of the Bismarck, alongside first-hand reflections from veteran Colin Bell, now aged 105.

The festival site itself will feature a striking nautical theme this year, including a full-scale replica of a 1916 Coastal Motor Boat, alongside live demonstrations from shipbuilders.

With theatre performances, family-friendly activities and an all-inclusive ticket offering access to a huge range of talks, organisers say the festival is designed to appeal to both dedicated history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

Tickets are already on sale, with the full programme set to be unveiled in April.