Knights, archers and courtly pursuits

Conisbrough Castle, Saturday 18 & Sunday 19 August 2012

All aspects of medieval life will be on display at Conisbrough Castle on Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 August, when the clock is turned back to the 13th century with an event promising thrills, spills and even delicious cooking smells!

Sheffield-based re-enactment group Escafeld Mediaeval Society will take over the castle’s grounds for two days of courtly activities and living history, all set in the 13th century, around 100 years after Conisbrough Castle was constructed. A living history camp will give visitors a taste of medieval life and trades, from the food they cooked to the craftsmanship of the leather worker, whilst each afternoon, the society’s knights will strap on their armour for a 13th century Tournament – a battle that requires skill, strength and a brave heart!

“With the cinema release of the Disney Pixar blockbuster, Brave, just a few days earlier, children around the world will be picking up toy swords and bows, but this is their chance to see the real thing – 13th century warriors who can cut through the mythology to give a true account of life holding the sword,” comments English Heritage’s events manager, Jon Hogan. “At this time, every man and boy was expected to do their duty to support King and country by becoming proficient in both swordsmanship and archery, and our knights will show off some of the skills that made England such a mighty power in medieval Europe.”

Indeed, children will be invited to join the knights as they prepare for battle, watching as their squires help them into protective layers and armour, and checking that their weapons are battle-ready before they head into the Tournament for a no-holds-barred battle!

The event runs each day from 11.00am to 5.00pm, with Conisbrough Castle and its visitors centre open daily from 10.00am. Admission prices are £5.50 for adults, £5.00 for concessions or £3.50 for children with a family ticket (two adults and up to three children) available for £14.50.

For more information, please visit www.english-heritage.org.uk/conisbrough or call 01709 863329.

ENDS

For further media information, please contact:

Jay Commins – PRO English Heritage (Yorkshire)

Tel: 0113 251 5698

Mob: 07810 546567

Email: jay@fim.org.uk