A new family event is coming to Dorchester this summer to celebrate its neolithic and iron age landscape and the people who have lived there for more than 6,000 years.

Home of Hillforts and Henges will run from July 21 to 31 with activities taking place in various locations across the town, including Maumbury Rings.

Miranda Woodgate, event co-ordinator of Home of Hillforts and Henges, said: “It’s long overdue that Dorchester celebrated its archaeology, especially its fabulous landscape.

“This summer is all about celebrating Dorchester’s surroundings.”

The 10-day event will launch at Dorset Museum in Dorchester with a special open evening and lecture on the Ridgeway Vikings, one of many lectures to take place at the location, as well as various tours and activities including a new archaeological dig at the National Trust’s Max Gate with ‘Meet the Archaeologist’ sessions.

The event is part of the National Council for British Archaeology’s ‘Festival of Archaeology’ and will include guided walks, with one taking place at Maiden Castle, antique handling and family crafts at Dorset Museum at weekends.

Home of Hillforts and Henges has been organised by Discover Dorchester and the Tourism Partnership, it intends to promote wellbeing and good mental health through appreciation and enjoyment of local nature.

Matilda Manley, Dorchester Town Council’s Tourism Development Officer said: “Dorchester is a very special place, not many towns can boast two iron age hillforts and three neolithic henges. These are fantastic features of our town that we should be celebrating, and it is great that we are now doing that.

“Maiden Castle is one of the biggest hillforts in Europe, Maumbury Rings has such an amazing history, starting as a sacred henge then being adopted by Romans for use as an amphitheatre.

“It is a great space that is still used and loved - it is brilliant to be celebrating its history and its importance to the town today”.

Taking place at Maumbury Rings on the final day is ‘Hengefest,’ a free event, complete with Viking axe throwing, animal handling, music, performances and many other activities that will celebrate the landscapes' vibrant history.

More information can be found on the Discover Dorchester website and Facebook page.