Jousting at Knebworth House

THERE will be plenty of spectacular action, stunts, fierce battles and warhorses at full gallop at Knebworth House on Sunday as the Knights of Royal England take up arms for a medieval jousting tournament.

The event, one of the most popular in the stately home’s annual programme, guarantees audiences all the romance and pageantry of days gone by, with a line-up of wild action, hand-to-hand combat and equestrian skill.

There are two jousts in the course of the day starting at 12.30pm and 2.30pm – subject to the weather.

With more than 20 years’ experience, the Knights of Royal England Company performs in an authentic jousting tournament arena with specially-built props, equipment, flags, a royal box and medieval tents.

Fort Knebworth and Adventure Playground with its swings, bouncy castle and giant slides provide hours of fun and games for parents and children.

The miniature railway is always popular and is kept very busy chugging around the playground. which is open from 11am to 5pm. The railway runs from noon to 5pm.

A vintage bus also runs between the garden entrance and the playground.

Families can also explore the Wilderness Garden, home to 72 life-size dinosaurs, models of creatures that roamed the earth millions of years ago.

The entrance cost is £8 and includes the gardens, the popular Dinosaur Trail and the Fort Knebworth children’s playground.

If visitors want to visit the house tickets can be purchased at the house entrance - £2.50 for adults and £2 for children/seniors.

There is no charge for kids under four. Parking is free and the park opens from 11am until 5pm.

For further details on Knebworth House, call Charlotte Farrer on 01438 812661, fax 01438 811908, email cfarrer@knebworthhouse.com or visit the website at www.knebworthhouse.com