Bleinheim Palace unveils Jousting contests for the Summer
Bleinheim Palace unveils Jousting contests for the Summer
As part of its Victorian season, Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire is to stage a re-enactment of a great jousting contest held in the early 20th century.
Jousting dates back to the Middle Ages when armoured knights practised their horsemanship skills using a lance as a weapon. The sport developed with two armed horsemen riding at each other with levelled lances, each aiming to unseat his opponent. Jousting declined as a serious sport with the arrival of gunpowder in the 17th century, but the Victorians revived it as entertainment.
The jousting contests at Blenheim take place on 8–10 August, when ‘the Knights of Royal England’ will challenge the 9th Duke of Marlborough in feats of skill under the medieval codes of chivalry and honour.
During the summer (19 July–31 August) visitors to Blenheim will be able to meet ‘Victorian butlers, footmen and housemaids’ who will be telling tales of life as a servant at the Palace in the Victorian times.
Admission and Ticket Prices
The palace and formal gardens are open Wednesday– Sunday inclusive, the park every day except Christmas day. Admission to the palace, park and gardens is £16.50 adults, £10 children (under-fives free) or £44 for a family ticket.