Knights in action at Arundel Castle

The colour and thrills of a jousting tournament can be experienced in the grounds of glorious Arundel Castle this year. The full spectacle of knights competing for glory can be enjoyed over the late May bank holiday and in early August.

As well as watching each day’s events unfold, visitors will be able to meet the knights and their horses and relive the exciting atmosphere that surrounded medieval tournaments in their heyday.

Arundel’s first joust is on Sunday 27 and Monday 28 May and is performed by Destrier, who are renowned for their attention to period detail. The tournament will include exciting hunting games, skill-at-arms and arming of the knights, as well as the jousting itself. The joust is not a series of staged pieces; rather, the knights, who are divided into two teams, compete for points according to how well their blows land, making for an exciting and unpredictable climax.

Destrier are joined by award-winning re-enactment group Raven Tor, who will be in character presenting weapons and combat tournaments and a tented encampment, offering a fascinating insight into all aspects of daily life in the 15th century, including skills such as weaving and armour making.

Visitors can talk to members of both companies to find out more about medieval life, and meet the knights and their horses. During the day, Ned Sharsted, a minstrel and storyteller, thrillingly tells tales of intrigue and battle. There’s also an opportunity for visitors to have a go at archery.

The jousting tournaments return on Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 August, when Destrier are again joined by re-enactment group Raven Tor, once again back in character to bring to life the 15th century.

For an exciting day out at a beautiful location, the jousting tournaments at Arundel Castle are well worth visiting and the whole family can be sure of an enjoyable day to remember.

Arundel Castle and grounds are open from 31 March to 28 October 2007. 2007 will be the first year that the castle will be open on Saturdays throughout the season; closing on Mondays instead, except for Bank Holidays. Opening times are: Tuesday-Sunday, 10am-5pm (Castle rooms open from 12 noon). Last entry is 4pm.

The historical special events are included in the normal full admission rates which are: £12 for adults, £9.50 for seniors, £7.50 for children and the great value £32 family ticket (2 adults + up to 5 children) for Castle, Fitzalan chapel, gardens, grounds, gift shop and restaurant.

For further information, visit: Arundelcastle.org.