Beating Retreat at Old Sarum Castle

Beating Retreat has its origins in the early days of chivalry when beating or sounding retreat pulled a halt to the days fighting, a return to camp and the mounting of the guard for the night. Today, Beating Retreat is an enjoyable combination of spirited marches, traditional and contemporary tunes, as well as poignant and evocative hymns and anthems of special significances to our fighting forces everywhere.

For the first time ever, and to mark the beginning of National Armed Forces Week in Salisbury, Beating Retreat will be held at English Heritage's historic Old Sarum Castle.  This event is being organised by the homeless charity, Alabaré to honour those Veterans whom the charity supports, and to thank those who currently serve in our military.

Join us at the beautiful mid-iron age site at Old Sarum Castle; the home of the original Cathedral, with outstanding views towards the City. We will be joined by the Royal Artillery Band to entertain and salute our Patron, The Lord Dannatt GCB CBE MC, as they march around this historic site.

This event is suitable for all. Hot BBQ food, ice cream and a range of refreshments will be available (so please bring cash).  

To really make the event special, Alabaré are offering a limited number of tickets to our Drinks Reception with our distinguished guests and Patron inside the inner Castle (weather permitting). Afterwards, you can join us in the designated seating area.  

This event is free to all who are currently serving in our military and Veterans, as a thank you for your service.  In addition, this event is free for all children up to 16.  Anyone wishing to attend the VIP Drinks Reception will be required to buy a ticket. Dogs must be kept on a lead at all times - please be aware that some dogs may find the event overwhleming.

Event Timings

6.00pm   Venue opens - access for all to the outer Castle and Beating Retreat performance area

6.00pm   Drinks Reception in the inner Castle

7.00pm   Beating Retreat commences

7.30pm   Beating Retreat finishes

8.30pm   Event finishes and venue closes

Alabaré is thankful to the following organisations for supporting this event:

• English Heritage
• Elbit Systems
• The Royal Artillary Band
• Serve On
• Rapid Relief Team

FAQs

Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event?

Please bring either a paper version or your phone to show your ticket.  If you are from the military community or a Veteran and therefore entitled to a free ticket, you will need to bring your military ID with you.

Can I buy tickets for the Drinks Reception on the door?

Tickets to the Drinks Reception are limited and will have sold out before hand, so buy yours now!  Everyone wishing to attend the Drinks Reception will need to purchase a ticket.

Can we have access to the inner Castle?

Yes!  English Heritage is kindly allowing all our guests to explore and play in the inner Castle without any additional payment.

Will the event go ahead if it is raining?

Yes, so please dress approproiately.

Will there be seating?

Seating is available for those who join us for the Drinks Reception. You can join us if you buy a ticket!

Can I bring a dog?

To the Beating only (so not to the drinks reception) but must remain on a lead at all times.

What are my parking options?

Free parking is available at the Beehive Park & Ride (just walk up the hill) but in addition, we do have parking available in the field just below the Castle.  Parking does cost £5 per car and all proceeds will help Alabaré support more homeless Veterans.  Spaces are on a first come first served basis and cash is required on the night.

How can I contact the organiser with any questions?

Please email fundraising@alabare.co.uk if you have any and we will aim to help.