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The group of early medieval foot soldiers, 'Cwmwd Ial', in full battle order (not a hiking boot in sight!), marched their way along the Clwydian Range with their pack-horses all the way from Moel Arthur, to the Jubilee Tower on Moel Famau back to their camp at Loggerheads Country Park.

The group portrays the Cymric men and women living in and around the commote of Ial in north east Wales in the 10th and 11th centuries (AD900-1099). Ial was the Welsh stronghold in and around the Clwydian Range at this time.

After five hours marching the hills they arrived at Loggerheads in late afternoon to applause and cheers from visitors as they descended into camp.

Erin Robinson, Heather and Hillforts Interpretation Officer welcomed the group back to their camp: “The men, women, children and horses looked spectacular as they arrived back at camp for a victorious home-coming after a long journey home across the hills.

“All in authentic clothing and shoes, the walkers and visitors who came across them on the Offa’s Dyke Path certainly witnessed something unique which I’m sure they will never forget.”

The hike was organised as part of the Festival of British Archaeology. Throughout the weekend, the Heather and Hillforts Project provided displays on the Iron Age hillforts of the area as well as family fun activities. The Clwyd-Powys Archaeological Trust provided quizzes, a brooch and helmet making workshop as well as real artefacts to handle.