Re: Spring 2017 | Page 100

workshop like blacksmith-forging , woodweaving , calligraphy and chain mailing .
If you prefer to take it easy then you can grab a pint from the Buxom Wench Tavern and relax around one of the stages taking in some traditional and modern folk music or theatrical performance . Don ’ t forget to catch the hilarious Theatre in the Mud offering a tongue in cheek look at the messier side of the medieval world .
‘ The children loved it . They didn ’ t want to leave so next year we ’ re staying all weekend ’
Kids Kingdom is a world of medieval fun if you have little ones . Wizards , jesters , knights , dragons and princesses await . Children can take part in the workshops too . From Jester school and shield or wand making to magic shows , theatre and drum school . There is even medieval potion making .
‘ The Jousting was simply AMAZING . A pure delight !’
From the moment you arrive , you are hit with the array of dazzling demonstrations , realistic battle re-enactments , highly-skilled displays of falconry and thrilling jousting from the Knights of Camelot . If you ’ ve ever fancied yourself as a bit of a warrior there is even have-a-go jousting , archery and axe throwing on offer .
‘ What a brilliantly staged event . Really friendly people , loads to see . Only wish we had stayed for the weekend . Always next year .’
Day tickets are available on all three days of the festival but for the truly immersive experience then weekend tickets are a must . If you like a touch of luxury then there ’ s a medieval glamping village and even a chance to book a VIP room in the castle . For all weekend guests the evening starts with a torch-lit procession from the camp site and an optional medieval banquet fit for a king or queen . Kids love the fireside storytelling and medieval stargazing , while music and dancing continues well in to the evening for the night owls .
Traditional musicians join a music line-up of foot-stomping folk bands who party like it ’ s ‘ 1499 ’. The Buxom Wench Tavern is always popular , serving real ale , traditional mead and 21st century brews . While medieval eats are on the menu alongside delicious treats for all the family .
Kids of all ages adore the moonlit cinema showing medieval themed classics under the incredible backdrop of the castle ; and right beside the Knight ’ s Tavern , so you can enjoy a drink while you relax in front of the big outdoor screen .
‘ A magical venue for a truly unforgettable medieval wedding ’
For any couples wishing to tie the knot , the stunning grounds and gardens of Herstmonceux Castle are the perfect fairytale setting . Wedding parties can enjoy this unique location with guests of all ages finding so much to see and do during their time at the festival .
‘ Thanks so much for everything your team did for us to make our wedding so spectacular and special ’
Past wedding at England ’ s Medieval Festival have included traditional civil ceremony in the castle , of more alternative hand-fasting or bespoke blessing in the beautiful gardens or within the thrilling royal arena . With the breath-taking backdrop of the festival , the sights and sounds of the thrilling battles and the day to day life of the medieval village , a limited number of couples can book this special themed experience never to be forgotten .
The name Herstmonceux is itself a fusion of surnames between Idonea de Herste and nobleman Ingelram de Monceux . It ’ s fitting that such a superb wedding venue has romantic historical beginnings and explains why couples marrying at Herstmonceux Castle feel the romantic ambiance beyond the beautiful setting . ‘ I just want to say a massive thank you to the whole team ; everyone was amazing and so helpful !! We had a fantastic wedding and so did all our guests . We will be coming back next year ’
All festival guests can enjoy acres of woodlands , lawns and formal period gardens containing hundreds of species of flowers and plants . You are free to wander through this authentic medieval world or discover the hidden ‘ magic garden ’ or woodland folly .
2017 will be the largest event the castle has ever seen and will celebrate 25 years of England ’ s Medieval Festivals . To share in this special silver anniversary the festival is offering any couples celebrating their own 25th wedding anniversary free festival tickets so spread the word .
There ’ s so much to see and do at England ’ s Medieval Festival . Why not step back in time and explore this magical weekend of celebration with the whole family ?
You can get 10 % off Day and Weekend entry tickets to the festival . Enter code : MWB10 at the ticket check out
By Sarah Ryman englandsmedievalfestival . co . uk
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