Step into the past at Arundel Castle’s Medieval Festival

Arundel Castle is inviting visitors to travel back to 1471 for its highly anticipated Medieval Festival Weekend. Taking place on Sat 5 - Sun 6 July, the festival commemorates the end of the War of the Roses with a thrilling programme of historical entertainment. Visitors will find themselves immersed in a world of medieval pageantry as the Earl of Arundel hosts a grand knight’s foot tournament and dramatic archery contests featuring skilled competitors from England, France, Poland, and the Holy Roman Empire.

Held on the castle’s scenic lower lawns, the two-day event includes a tented encampment, historical craft demonstrations such as metal forging and leatherwork, and a bustling medieval marketplace. The schedule is packed with excitement, featuring fierce combat displays, falconry, fire-eating feats, and lively re-enactments.

A hit with families, the Medieval Festival offers hands-on activities for all ages. Adventurous visitors can try their hand at axe throwing, crossbows, and archery, while younger guests can enjoy Arundel Castle’s famous ‘kids battles’, storytelling sessions, and medieval-themed crafts. Live music and entertainment will fill the air throughout the weekend.

Hungry festivalgoers can feast like knights at the Knights’ Table, offering medieval-inspired fare near the encampment. Additional refreshments are available at the castle’s café, tea terrace, and coffee shop, or guests are welcome to bring a picnic to enjoy within the castle grounds.

“We’re thrilled to bring back the Medieval Festival Weekend for 2025,” said Arundel Castle’s Manager, Andrew Lewis. “With so much to see, do, and experience, it’s a fantastic way for families and history-lovers alike to step into the sights and sounds of medieval life with the unique and historical backdrop of Arundel Castle.”

is a restored medieval castle located in the heart of West Sussex, Arundel Castle was established during the reign of Edward the Confessor and completed by Roger de Montgomery, who was a cousin of William the Conqueror. The castle has been the seat of the Earls of Arundel and the Dukes of Norfolk since the 11th century and is a Grade I-listed building. It was damaged during the English Civil War and then restored in the 18th and 19th centuries. The castle has been visited by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert and has undergone several restorative works over the centuries. Now the seat of the 18th Duke of Norfolk/Earl Marshall of England, Edward Fitzalan-Howard, today the castle features extensive gardens and is open to visitors between April and early November. Visitors can take advantage of a full events programme throughout the season, from the world-renowned tulip festival to family history days, medieval festivals, jousting tournaments, and even Shakespearean theatre events.

The Medieval Festival Weekend comes to Arundel Castle on Sat 5 - Sun 6 July 2025. For more information, visit: www.arundelcastle.org

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