Military Odyssey at the Kent Showground, Detling, will bring 2,000 years of history to life over the August bank holiday weekend

A huge living history event is celebrating its 25th anniversary with a journey through more than 2,000 years of warfare, from the Roman Empire to modern-day conflicts.

This year’s Military Odyssey will return for the August bank holiday weekend, bringing action-packed battles and historical figures to the Kent Showground in Detling.

It’s one of the country’s largest multi-period re-enactment shows, boasting hundreds of actors, historians, vehicle enthusiasts, and traders.

Visitors can immerse themselves in epic live battle re-enactments, complete with pyrotechnics and realistic combat, alongside living history camps that recreate the sights and sounds of bygone eras.

There will also be military vehicles ranging from horse-drawn artillery to tanks and armoured cars on display.

Families can enjoy interactive experiences, including weaponry demonstrations and hands-on activities, while keen collectors can browse more than 200 stalls selling memorabilia, antiques, books and uniforms.

Event organiser David King said: “This year is extra special – 25 years of bringing history to life. We’ve expanded our displays and added new interactive elements so visitors can not only watch history but experience it first-hand.”

The Military Odyssey takes place from Saturday, August 23 to Monday, August 25 at the Kent Showground in Detling, near Maidstone. You can book tickets online here.

Adult day tickets start from £23 and child tickets start from £12. Camping and weekend tickets are also available.