Old Norse Lodge’s Viking Experience Day Brings History to Life in Grimsby
Old Norse Lodge Care Home in Grimsby, part of Danforth Care Homes, was transformed into a bustling Viking village on Saturday, 25th January, as residents, team members, and the local community came together for a memorable Viking Experience Day. Hosted in partnership with Havelok’s Village, the free event welcomed visitors of all ages to step back in time and immerse themselves in the fascinating world of the Vikings.
The day saw staff and residents exploring an authentic Viking encampment and engaging in traditional arts and crafts, marvelling at weapon displays and watching Grim and Havelok come to life on screen.
The highlight for many, however, was meeting the Vikings themselves, who shared their stories and brought history vividly to life.
Residents and Team Reflect on a Day to Remember
The event was met with glowing feedback from both residents and team members. Shirley G, a resident at Old Norse Lodge, shared:
“I enjoyed it, I think everyone did. It was stimulating – us elderly need stimulating, and it was good to go back in time. I took part in arts and crafts, and it was nice.”
Another resident, Wendy A, reminisced about her school days:
“I really enjoyed it. The men were very informative, and they knew their stuff. They reminded me of things I had forgotten – I remember making a Viking boat at school and coming last! I very much enjoyed the battles; it was a really good day.”
The team at Old Norse Lodge embraced the day with enthusiasm, adding their own unique touches to the event. Charlene, a team member, donned full Viking attire, immersing herself in the experience: “I dressed up for the event and my costume was very hot! Havelok told me I had to keep it on all day to see how they felt, and wow – it was warm. I couldn’t hold the shields for long; they were so heavy! They said I fitted in; I just needed to practise my battle face. It was really nice to see everyone’s smiles. The Viking children even made me a bracelet and gave me a full rundown of how they made it and what it was made from.”
Fellow team member Kea added: “I was working the Viking Day – it was a wonderful day with loads of activities. The residents especially liked the Viking children; they said it added an extra special touch.”
Corrine, another team member, summed up the atmosphere perfectly:
“Everyone enjoyed it – all the kids that came loved it. It was a good day.”
Rachael Smith, Manager at Old Norse Lodge, expressed her delight at the event’s success: “Seeing our residents and the local community come together to celebrate Grimsby’s rich Viking heritage was truly heartwarming. Events like this are so important, not just for the fun and excitement they bring, but for the memories they create. At Old Norse Lodge, we’re dedicated to providing engaging, meaningful experiences that enrich the lives of our residents.”
The event also served as a nod to Grimsby’s Viking roots. Over 1,000 years ago, Grimsby was the gateway between the Viking Kingdom of Jorvik and the wider Viking world. The town’s name derives from the legendary Viking Grim, who rescued the Danish prince Havelok and raised him in exile.
