Hedingham Castle thrills locals with bank holiday jousting event

The event, which was held at Hedingham Castle, delighted guests with some historical family fun and games.

The venue holds ‘The Knights of Albion Joust’ event twice a year, centred around a live joust twice a day performed by actors.

Historic tents were pitched up, with actors portraying 11th century castle life.

Business stalls featured at the event, including Fruity Fleeces, a local business selling cruelty free, wool on wool sheep rugs.

Owner Robin said: “I absolutely love this event, we’re here at every event the castle holds – it’s like a family.

“It’s great to be here, I love bringing my rugs here and I always get a great response from visitors, it’s just perfect."  

Owner of stuffed cookie company, Cat, has been bringing her business, Sugar & Roses Cookies, to Hedingham Castle for many years.

She said: “We’ve been coming for years. It’s always a great day out even if the weather isn’t good,

“It’s one of our most successful events, it’s handy to know we’ve got it coming up and people come for a nice day, wanting to buy some treats."

Different activities were set up, including bird shows, archery, and axe throwing, as well as visitors having free roam of the castle grounds.

A stall for the castle’s Devere Gin was pitched at the event entrance, where a specially brewed gin could be purchased.

The Devere Gin was launched in May, by Hedingham Castle owner Jason – a descendent of the castle’s Devere family.

The gin includes special ingredients, like Linden flowers from Lime trees on the Castle grounds – original used as an anti-anxiety treatment.

Katie, who works at the castle, said: “This event is very family-friendly, with lots and lots to see and do.

“We always get a great turn out with crowds of people with their families and children.

“This is our third and final joust of the year.

“We love bringing the local community together to celebrate our village history."  

For more information, hedinghamcastle.co.uk