Champion to be crowned as real tournament jousting returns to Carew Castle
Carew Castle is preparing to crown its first jousting champion of the 21st century as live competitive tournament action returns this July.
Taking place on Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 July, the Grand Medieval Joust will see armoured knights compete for points, pride and the title against the dramatic backdrop of one of Wales’ most atmospheric castles.
Visitors will experience the atmosphere of a medieval tournament at close quarters, from the tension before the charge to the thunder of hooves, rattling armour and splintering lances. There are no scripted winners and no rehearsed finales. Each encounter will be a genuine test of horsemanship, skill and nerve, with the champion only revealed once the final contest has been fought.
The tournament will be presented by professional jousting team Griffin Historical, whose riders bring years of experience from historic venues and competitions across the UK and Europe.
Daisy Hughes, Manager of Carew Castle, said: “There is something very powerful about seeing history come alive in the place where it actually happened. This event has the colour and spectacle people expect from a medieval tournament, but at its heart it is a genuine sporting contest. These are skilled riders competing for points and victory, not a staged performance with a predetermined ending. No one knows who will be crowned champion until the final lance has been broken, which brings a real sense of tension and excitement to the arena.”
Carew Castle’s jousting story dates back to 1507, when Sir Rhys ap Thomas marked his appointment to the Order of the Garter by staging a magnificent five-day tournament at the Castle.
Alongside the main jousting action, visitors can enjoy a medieval encampment, costumed re-enactors, traditional crafts, have-a-go archery, children’s have-a-go jousting, militia training displays and hand-to-hand combat.
The Grand Medieval Joust takes place at Carew Castle, which is managed by the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority, on Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 July, from 10am to 4pm. Entry to the Castle during the weekend is by pre-booked Joust ticket only. Visit www.carewcastle.com to book tickets and for full information.