The Leeds Castle Jousting Tournament, also known as The Queen’s Joust, is an annual event held over the late May bank holiday at Leeds Castle in Kent, England. This captivating event offers visitors a unique opportunity to witness the exhilarating displays of combat and action, elegant and unusual equestrian performances, and immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of medieval living and feasting.
Event Overview
The Leeds Castle Jousting Tournament is a highly anticipated event that showcases the best of medieval pageantry and chivalry. Held at the picturesque Leeds Castle, this annual celebration invites visitors to step back in time and experience the thrill of witnessing knights from England and France compete for the coveted cup and the queen’s attention.
Schedule of Events
The Leeds Castle Jousting Tournament offers a packed schedule of activities and performances throughout the day, ensuring visitors are captivated from start to finish.
Main Jousting Events
The main attraction of the event is the thrilling jousting competitions, which take place at 1 pm and 3:30 pm each day. Spectators can witness the skilled knights as they charge towards each other, their lances poised to strike, in a display of strength, agility, and bravery.
Other Activities
In addition to the jousting events, the Leeds Castle Jousting Tournament features a variety of other engaging activities and performances:
| Activity | Time |
|---|---|
| Medieval Music and Dance | 10:30 am, 2 pm, and 4:15 pm |
| Meet The Knights and Foot Combat | 11 am |
| Arming the Knight | 2:30 pm |
| 15th Century Trades and Activities | All day |
These activities offer visitors a well-rounded experience, allowing them to immerse themselves in the sights, sounds, and traditions of the medieval era.
Admission and Booking
Attending the Leeds Castle Jousting Tournament is an affordable and accessible experience for visitors. The ticket price for adults is £31.50, and it is recommended to book online in advance to secure the best price.
Unique Features
While the Leeds Castle Jousting Tournament is a long-standing tradition, the event organizers are always looking for ways to add new and exciting elements to the experience. One such feature that was initially announced for the 2023 event was the inclusion of zebras in the jousting competitions. However, this turned out to be an April Fools’ prank, much to the disappointment of those who were eagerly anticipating the unique sight.
Venue: Leeds Castle
The Leeds Castle Jousting Tournament takes place at the stunning Leeds Castle, located just 4 miles south of Maidstone, Kent. This picturesque castle, dating back to the 12th century, provides the perfect backdrop for the medieval-themed event, transporting visitors back in time.
Inclusion with Leeds Castle Admission
One of the great advantages of the Leeds Castle Jousting Tournament is that it is included with the regular admission ticket to Leeds Castle. This means that visitors can explore the castle’s rich history and stunning grounds, as well as enjoy the thrilling jousting event, all in a single visit.
Conclusion
The Leeds Castle Jousting Tournament is a must-attend event for anyone with a passion for medieval history, chivalry, and the thrill of live action. With its captivating displays of combat, elegant equestrian performances, and immersive medieval atmosphere, this annual celebration offers a truly unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a seasoned castle enthusiast or a first-time visitor, the Leeds Castle Jousting Tournament is sure to leave a lasting impression and inspire a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage of this remarkable region.
References
- https://leeds-castle.com/events/the-queens-jousting-event/
- https://www.visitsoutheastengland.com/events/the-queens-joust-at-leeds-castle-p2333121
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b1rS903zFCM
- https://www.kentonline.co.uk/whats-on/events/2024-05/25/the-queens-joust-at-leeds-castle-14081/
- https://leeds-castle.com/news/zebras-to-take-charge-at-leeds-castles-queens-joust/