Knights' Tournaments
Go back in time and get closer to the action as rival knights compete in the ultimate test of strength and skill at our Knights’ Tournaments, or experience the thrill of battle as you watch teams of knights battle it out for victory armed only with clubs and shields at our Clash of Knights events.
Between the battles and contests, you can experience the atmosphere of these legendary events as you wander through medieval encampments. Meet the characters from the past as they show you how to repair weapons, cook over an open fire and prepare for battle.
Selected dates between 25th July - 28th August 2023
Clash of Knights
Legendary Jousts
Experience the exhilarating spectacle of speed and skill as four legendary knights compete for honour and glory in the Grand Medieval Joust. See lances shatter, feel the thunder of hooves and hear the roar of the crowd as reputations are won and lost.
With tournaments happening across the country, including our authentic 13th-century jousts, inspired by the brutal early days of this sport. Choose your champion and cheer them on to victory – or console them in defeat.
Selected dates between 29th July - 28th August 2023
Legendary Joust at Eltham Palace
Our fearless fighters and their magnificent horses will charge at full speed towards their opponent in an unforgettable display of chivalry and sheer courage. Choose your champion and experience this extraordinary medieval sport within the grounds of Eltham Palace.
Book NowPirates!
Ahoy, me hearties! Set sail this summer and get ready for a spectacular adventure on the high seas. Witness some of history’s most famous pirates fight it out at close quarters, and listen to them tell their tales of booty, bounty and barnacles.
With shows, demonstrations and hands-on activities, there’ll be plenty of piratical fun for the whole family - whether you’re a scallywag, a salty sea dog or a lily-livered landlubber.
Selected dates between 6th - 24th August 2023
Romans
Discover how the Romans lived! Head to the Roman encampment to see the fort brought back to life and hear first hand from a local centurion to find out what life was really like for Roman people, from their famous soldiers to the family life, encounter living history in an extraordinary way.
With some of the most signficant Roman sites in our care, there's no better place to step back in time and experience the lives of those that led one of the earliest invasions of England.
Selected dates between 29th July - 28th August 2023
Medieval Life
Step back in time to medieval England and learn what life was like for ordinary people. Meet characters from the past and hear tales from centuries ago while taking parts in hands-on activites, from jester workshops, have-a-go archery, storytelling, squire training and lessons in courtly etiquette.
Selected dates between 22nd July - 3rd September 2023
MORE TO EXPLORE
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English Heritage Membership
Explore extraordinary places all year round with unlimited access to hundreds of historical sites.
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A BRIEF HISTORY OF KNIGHTS
Everything you need to know about the history of jousting, knights and more.
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What's On
Get ready for one extraordinary summer with a packed calendar of legendary events.
