This May Bank Holiday at Blenheim Palace a momentous battle will take place on the South Lawn in a recreation of a Victorian tournament that took place at Earls Court in the early 20th century.
From May 3-5, knights will challenge the 9th Duke of Marlborough in feats of immense skill whilst reliving the mediaeval codes of chivalry and honour.
A brass band will welcome visitors to the South Lawn where a parade of the Knight Marshall of the lists, the Judges and the Ladies of the Court will open the contest. The knights will perform medieval disciplines of supreme skills such as Jousting at the tilt, lancing of the rings, spearing the peasants head, the Quintain and of course the foot combat using swords and maces.
The Palace will provide a backdrop whilst visitors enjoy a host of costumed entertainment all day from 11am onward including Virtuous Victorian Tales by a storyteller, falconry displays, and have a go at archery.
The jousting will take place twice a day at 12.30pm and 3pm. The brass band will play at 11.30am, 1.15pm and 3.45pm, and storytelling will take place at 11.30am, 2pm and 4pm. Refreshments and a BBQ will be available, and Blenheim Palace picnics are available to order in advance by calling 01993 815 614.
