Hail and Well Met!

Welcome to England's Medieval Festival at Herstmonceux Castle....or maybe that should be welcome back, because for many visitors the Festival has become a regular annual event - just as it is for many of the medieval re-enactors and tradespeople participating. Even so, no two Festivals are alike: new faces appear; displays get bigger and more spectacular; and the number of visitors increases each year.

Work to put the Festival together is a year-round process. The goal is always to create something unique; a real one-of-a-kind event with a very special blend of history, spectacle and fun for the whole family. What we want you to experience and if you're a regular visitor what you've enjoyed in the past, is something that just can't be experienced elsewhere.

England's Medieval Festival is the largest of its kind in the UK. Our name gives an important reassurance of quality and it means that you can always count on a warm welcome and a day out like no other.

You will meet our highly dedicated staff throughout the day, recognised by their distinctive blue and gold costumes.

Visit the 'What's On' section on this website to read all about the exciting events occuring during the weekend.

See you at the Festival

Huzzah!

General Information

Mounted Squires on fiery steeds demonstrate noble skills in a contest for supremacy in three Skill-at-Arms Tournaments daily; pick your champion and cheer him to victory!

Europe's finest Bowmen gather to compete for prestige and prizes in the Festival's Longbow and Crossbow Competition. Do you have what it takes? Try your hand at the Have-a-Go Archery with expert instruction from our archers.

The walls of the fairy-tale 15^th century moated castle and battlefield come under siege from the massed forces of opposing armies.  Hear the crash of broadswords on heavy armour; the rallying call of battle cries as the troops are martialled into position and the eerie hiss of volley after volley of arrows overhead; experience the smell of black powder from salvo after salvo of cannon fire. Witness the incredible sight of the siege engine as it hurls its deadly load toward the castle defenders. Sieges are mounted twice daily at 11am at the front of the castle and 3pm on the battlefield.

And when the fighting is over people of all ages gather from miles around to experience the very best of medieval life. Living History Encampments and Europe ’s largest Medieval Traders’ Market offer a rare glimpse into the everyday life and times of the fifteenth century whilst craftsmen and traders display their wares and skills from a bygone age.

Experience the ancient art of Falconry and learn a thing or two of this ancient art of hunting with spectacular static and flying displays.

With activities and entertainment for the whole family to enjoy, England's Medieval Festival is a complete day out. Don't miss the amusing antics of that old fool - Devilstick - who thinks he can juggle to save his life! Listen to tales of courtly love and chivalry on the Village Stage and hear the sweet sounds of music from minstrels as it lingers in the air. The children will be captivated by the many activities in the Kids' Kingdom whilst parents browse the contemporary craft stalls in Market Lane and the Craft Marquee. Enjoy a relaxing ride with Castle Carriage Rides or for those seeking a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily medieval life, tarry a while in the hidden walled gardens and grounds of this magnificent estate.

England's Medieval Festival at Herstmonceux Castle - History was never such fun!

Disabled Access

We have a special car park for the disabled, which you can reach via the Church Road entrance. You need to display the official orange badge on your car. Disabled toilets are provided at this entrance and at the castle tea shop. About 50% of the festival site can be reached by paved paths.

Dogs

We love dogs but most of our horses and birds do not! The cannons can scare and distress dogs. It is recommended that you leave your pets at home. If this is not possible, please keep your dog on a lead and clean up any mess - please act responsibly!

For more detailed information see the 'What's On' section of this website.