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Polish your armour, climb aboard your steed, and canter down
to Berkeley Castle in Gloucestershire to join in the
joust.
What happens at the Joust festival?
Every year in July, Medieval folk from across the land gather
to eat drink and be merry - with a little bit of jousting
and battle re-enactments thrown in for good measure. There
is a chance here to sharpen your archery skills, have your
fortune told, and pelt the peasant. If this all seems a little
too energetic then sit back and watch the rebels siege the
castle. Not literally, but their display, with clashing swords
and booming cannons, is very authentic.
The Joust festival is the largest Medieval event in Great
Britain and its venue, Berkeley Castle, is a superb
example of Medieval architecture. The living history village,
traditional traders, costumes, and cooking all combine to
give a real taste of life in England's Middle Ages (350AD
to 1450AD). Back then it was law for everyone to practice
archery after church on a Sunday and at the festival you can
check out the impressive skills of some modern day archers
or even have a go yourself.
Not only will the kids be excited by the colourful characters
but they also have their own area to explore where they can
take a pony ride, prepare for battle by having their face
painted, or pelt the peasant for his misdemeanours. It's not
just the kids that can learn. Visit the Learning Zone Tent
and meet some fascinating speakers and experts who can
give you insights into astrology and history, and share some
great stories.
The joust takes place on the last two weekends of July. The
joust and siege both take place twice a day but in between
there is singing, dancing, and traditional homemade food and
drink, with enough hustle and bustle to keep you busy all
day.
How to get to Berkeley
Berkeley lies between Bristol and Gloucester just off the
M5, about two hours from London. A shuttle service runs from
the train station. Berkeley Castle is open to visitors form
Easter to the end of October. |
