Knights prepare for battle at Carlisle Castle
- Knights relax before Medieval Clash of Chivalry and Courage –
Any athlete will tell you that it is important to relax and be fully prepared both mentally and physically before a big event, just ask those about to star in the Beijing Olympics and it seems medieval knights were no different.
Whilst medieval knights would have relaxed with a game of cards or a sing song before donning their armour and wielding their swords, the knights about to take part in the English Heritage, Medieval Clash of Knights event at Carlisle Castle, choose to do things a little differently in preparation, with a massage and a dip in a Jacuzzi!
But nobody could deny them a bit of luxury as for historical interpreters of Harlech Medieval Society, summer is their busiest time as they travel the length and breadth of the country staging their events. The group will need the rest as they will soon be busy squaring up to the squires to demonstrate their centuries old combat skills in a thrilling live action event at the Castle from Tuesday 19 – Thursday 21 August.
The event will feature brave, bold and noble knights kitted out in the finest armour with authentic displays of weapons and combat tactics. Visitors will further be able to see exquisite fashions and entertaining dialogue bringing the 15th century battle scene to life as they demonstrate the reality of medieval combat with a series of thrilling living history displays that will bring the pageantry of medieval England to life.
John Hogan, events manager at English Heritage, said: “Whilst a Jacuzzi is not the most historically accurate way for knights to relax, I am sure many may have enjoyed a massage before combat. The historical interpreters on the other hand can enjoy many modern day luxuries before they don the heavy armour and begin their re-enactment of life as it was six centuries ago. These events are a fantastic way for the family to spend the summer holidays. Carlisle Castle is the perfect setting for this sort of event.”
The following week, post-medieval times will be demonstrated when Tudor falconry and costumed tours event comes to Carlisle. Visitors can witness spectacular aerial displays from birds of prey in flight, plus tours of the Carlisle Castle with costumed guides at 11.30am and 1.30pm on Saturday, 30 and Sunday, 31 of August.
The Medieval Clash of Knights event will start at 12pm. Admissions prices are: Adults £5.50, Concessions £4.50, Children £3.00. Entry is free for English Heritage members. For details of all events at Carlisle Castle visit www.english-heritage.org.uk/carlisle
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