11 hours Ago
Arundel Castle was transported back in time over the Easter Bank Holiday weekend as it hosted its first Medieval Festival of the year. Drawing thousands of visitors, the three-day spectacular offered guests a fully immersive experience set in the year 1214. The festival recreated a pivotal moment in history when King John summoned his barons to prepare for a daring campaign to reclaim Normandy from Philip, King of France.
Thousands stepped into history as Arundel Castle hosted its Easter Medieval Festival (Image: Arundel Castle) Guests were invited to witness the Earl of Arundel’s forces in training, showcasing their combat prowess, archery skills, and military discipline ahead of the impending conflict. Situated within a tented encampment on the castle's lower lawns, the three-day event featured dynamic re-enactments, including exhilarating displays of 13th-century combat, falconry, and archery. Knights, archers, and falcons brought 13th-century England to life in Arundel (Image: Arundel Castle) Visitors enjoyed various activities and entertainment, from live medieval music to trying their hand at archery and axe throwing.
Children enjoyed the craft tent and even had the chance to participate in Arundel Castle’s renowned ‘Kids Battles’. Sword fights and kids’ battles lit up Arundel Castle over Easter weekend (Image: Arundel Castle) Andrew Lewis, Castle Manager at Arundel Castle, commented: "This was the first Medieval event of the Castle’s 2025 events programme, and it was lovely to start the season with such a fun weekend. "We were delighted to welcome thousands of visitors over the three days, and we hope everyone enjoyed their trip back in history to the medieval world.
" History came alive as Arundel Castle staged its first medieval bash of 2025 (Image: Arundel Castle) For those who missed the Easter festivities, Arundel Castle will host another Medieval Festival - A Skirmish - during the end-of-May bank holiday weekend from Saturday, May 24 to Monday, May 26, 2025. With similar interactive fun and educational experiences for visitors of all ages, the May festival will be set in 1474, as a dramatic confrontation unfolds between England and France. Easter magic met medieval muscle in Arundel’s epic three-day festival (Image: Arundel Castle) While the Earl’s main forces are away, a French raiding party lands on the coast with plans to seize the castle.
With only a small garrison left to defend it, the Earl’s household must rally to protect their home and hold off the invaders until reinforcements arrive. Tickets for the May Medieval Festival (including access to the castle, grounds, gardens, and have-a-go activities) are available online, priced from £28 per adult, £12.50 for a child, or £68.
50 for a Family Ticket. Children under five years old can enter for free. Garden-only tickets are not available for this event.
.
