Leeds Castle will resound to the thunder of hooves and the clash of lances on shields over the May Bank Holiday weekend as it hosts The Queen’s Joust (25th – 27th May).
Leeds Castle as it used to be!
Travel back in time to a world of medieval knights and chivalry. Enjoy exhilarating displays of combat and action, elegant and exciting equestrianism, and medieval living and feasting.
Competing over three days for the coveted Leeds Castle International Cup, a team of skilled fighters from France will battle against brave competitors from England.
One of the stars of the English team is Emma Pearn. Emma saw her first jousting tournament when she was eight years old. She decided she wanted to become a jouster on that day. After years of training martial arts, fencing, and riding, she is now one of England's fiercest competitors.
Gasp at the first crash of lances, cheer as your favourite knight gallops past, and watch as the combatants battle it out for the coveted cup, and for the honour and attention of the queen.
Points will be accumulated across all three days, with the cup and prize of the queen being awarded to the highest scoring team. The tournament consists of four challenging events, each demonstrating strength and ability and, for the first-time, visitors can witness two jousts at 1pm and 3.30pm each day.
In addition to the feats of strength and skill, all-day encampments offer a fascinating insight into 15th century trades and activities including blacksmithing forge, medieval food and drink, coin-minting, tailor’s workshop, weaving and spinning.
This event is included with a Leeds Castle general admission ticket, best prices available in advance online.
The daily programme of events
Medieval Music & Dance - 10.30am, 2pm & 4.15pm
Meet the Knights & Foot Combat - 11am
The Joust - 1pm
Arming the Knight - 2.30pm
The Joust - 3.30pm
How to get your tickets
Online admission prices: Adult (16+) £31.50, Child £22.50, Family £74. For details and to book, visit www.leeds-castle.com . Leeds Castle, Broomfield, Maidstone ME17 1PL. T: 01622 765 400 E: [email protected].
About Leeds Castle, Kent
Leeds Castle is considered a national treasure, providing a window onto over nine hundred years of British history. It is a haven of tranquillity and offers a wealth of discovery and enjoyment for all ages.
Situated five miles southeast of Maidstone in Kent, Leeds Castle’s rich and riveting history, including serving six of England’s medieval queens, to its elaborate transformation into a glamorous 1930s country house retreat for the influential and famous by Anglo-American heiress, Lady Olive Baillie, secures its place as one of the most visited historic attractions in Britain.
The Castle and its estate is preserved and maintained by the Leeds Castle Foundation, a not-for-profit charity.
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