The 10 Best Medieval Festivals in the UK (2026 Dates & Guide)

In 2026, the United Kingdom’s landscape transforms into a living historical tapestry. Enthusiasts can step directly into the Middle Ages through immersive encampments on the sites of historic conflicts. Participants live in period-authentic tents, cook over open fires, and demonstrate ancient crafts like blacksmithing and bow-making.

Summer marks the peak season, with late July and August hosting massive festivals and jousting tournaments. Visitors witness professional cavalry teams and large-scale infantry battles featuring longbow volleys and clashing swords. Vibrant markets—where modern materials are banned—offer hand-forged weaponry, leatherwork, and artisanal jewelry alongside wandering minstrels and falconry displays.

Early season events begin in February to celebrate seafaring legacies, while the autumn commemorates defining shifts in the English crown. Many venues provide “glamping” or traditional camping options, allowing guests to wake to bugles and woodsmoke. These 2026 gatherings offer an unrivaled gateway into the heart of British heritage through grand parades and award-winning historical fairs.

What’s Special about Medieval Festivals in the UK?

• Authentic Battlegrounds: Many festivals take place on original historical sites, such as the actual fields where the Battle of Hastings (1066) or the Battle of Tewkesbury (1471) were fought.
• Rigorous Accuracy: The UK’s “hardcore” reenactment societies enforce strict standards for hand-forged steel, natural-fiber clothing, and period-correct dialects, moving far beyond “Renaissance Fair” fantasy.
• Living History Encampments: Participants live on-site in authentic canvas tents, cooking medieval recipes over open wood fires and practicing “lost” crafts like blacksmithing, fletching, and calligraphy.
• Spectacular Arenas: Visitors witness high-stakes jousting tournaments with professional stunt teams and large-scale infantry clashes featuring hundreds of armored soldiers and period artillery.
• Multi-Sensory Immersion: Markets strictly ban modern plastics, creating an atmosphere filled with the scent of woodsmoke, the sound of lutes, and the taste of traditional mead and spit-roasted meats.

Top 10 Medieval Festivals in the UK

1. Tewkesbury Medieval Festival – Gloucestershire, UK 2026

Tewkesbury Medieval Festival is Europe’s premier free medieval gathering, famously recreating the 1471 Battle of Tewkesbury from the Wars of the Roses. Held on the original historic site, this massive “living history” event brings the 15th century to life with over 2,000 international re-enactors. Against the backdrop of the town’s ancient Abbey, the festival offers an immersive journey into the past, blending thunderous combat displays with authentic medieval culture, crafts, and commerce.

Highlights:

• The Battle of Tewkesbury is a spectacular daily re-enactment featuring armored knights, archers, and artillery on the original “Bloody Meadow.”
• Medieval Market & Trading with over 100 specialist stalls selling authentic period clothing, weaponry, jewelry, and traditional foodstuffs.
• Living History Camps, where visitors can explore the daily lives, cooking, and crafts of 15th-century soldiers and their families.
• Medieval Entertainment featuring wandering minstrels, jugglers, fire-eaters, and mummers performing throughout the festival site.
• The Grand Parade sees thousands of participants in full regalia march through the historic streets of Tewkesbury on Sunday morning.
• Tewkesbury Abbey Events, including special services and dramatic historical interpretatio,ns centered around the town’s stunning Norman architecture.

Dates for 2026: July 11 & 12, 2026

Address: Fields adjacent to Tewkesbury Town Centre and Tewkesbury Abbey, Gloucestershire, GL20 5PX, UK.

Festival GUIDE:

• Plan for Parking: Use the official festival parking sites (usually a flat fee per car) as town center spaces fill up very quickly during the event.
• Bring Cash: While some stalls may take cards, many authentic traders and the donation buckets (which keep the festival free) prefer cash.
• Visit the Abbey: Take time to enter Tewkesbury Abbey to see the graves of the fallen knights and the “Sun in Splendour” roof bosses.

For more information about Tewkesbury Medieval Festival, click here. The Tewkesbury Medieval Festival 2026 is FREE to attend for the general public.

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2. The Loxwood Joust – West Sussex, UK 2026

The Loxwood Joust is the UK’s premier mediaeval fun and feast, an immersive step back in time to the year 1126. Located within the enchanted Loxwood Meadow, this legendary festival blends high-octane action with historical authenticity, featuring thunderous jousting tournaments and daring displays of weaponry. Beyond the battlefield, the “Kingdom of Loxwood” offers a vibrant tapestry of medieval life, from the raucous atmosphere of the banqueting hall to the mystical allure of the witches’ wood. It is a place where legends come to life, inviting visitors of all ages to witness the bravery of knights and the skill of ancient craftsmen in a truly magical woodland setting.

Highlights:

• The Full Contact Jousting tournament, where world-class knights on magnificent steeds clash at full gallop in a brutal test of skill and courage.
• The Living History Village features a sprawling encampment of mediaeval traders, blacksmiths, and herbalists demonstrating the daily life of the 12th century.
• The Mediaeval Banquet offers a lavish four-course feast accompanied by period music, court jesters, and immersive theatrical storytelling.
• The Witches’ Wood & Woodland Stage hosts folk musicians, dark fairy tales, and enchanting performances hidden deep within the trees.
• The Learning Zone, where guests can participate in workshops for archery, sword school, blacksmithing, and even medieval calligraphy.
• The Copper Pot Mead and traditional ales served at the tavern, providing the perfect refreshments to accompany the sights and sounds of the kingdom.

Dates for 2026:

• Weekend 1: August 1 & 2, 2026
• Weekend 2: August 8 & 9, 2026
• Weekend 3: August 15 & 16, 2026 (General festival entry is Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM)

Address: The Loxwood Meadow: Loxwood, Billingshurst, West Sussex, RH14 0AL, United Kingdom

Festival GUIDE:

• Book Banquets in Advance: The Medieval Banquet is a highlight of the festival and frequently sells out months ahead of time; secure your seat online early.
• Dress the Part: While not mandatory, many visitors wear medieval attire; you can also hire or purchase authentic costumes from the traders within the village.
• Watch the Cannon Fire: Be prepared for loud noises; the black powder displays and cannon fire are incredibly realistic and can be heard across the entire meadow.

For more information about The Loxwood Joust, click here. You can contact Euro Travelo to handle all your ticket and reservation needs.

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3. Robin Hood Festival – Sherwood Forest, UK 2026

The Robin Hood Festival celebrates its monumental 40th anniversary in 2026, honoring the world’s most famous outlaw in his legendary home of Sherwood Forest. This month-long celebration transforms the ancient woodland into a bustling medieval landscape where the tales of Robin Hood and his Merry Men come to life. Against the backdrop of the majestic 1,100-year-old Major Oak, the festival blends world-class performance, historical education, and family-friendly adventure. As a cornerstone of Nottinghamshire’s cultural heritage, the 2026 edition promises a special “coming together” of legends, featuring unique collaborations and spectacular arena shows that honor four decades of forest festivities.

Highlights:

• Knights of Nottingham Jousting featuring high-energy equestrian stunts, lance-shattering hits, and a dramatic retelling of the battle between Robin Hood and the Sheriff of Nottingham.
• The Legends Arena Show (Weekend 2), a rare cross-over performance uniting the “Sherwood Outlaws” with Arthurian performers from Brittany to celebrate the myths of Robin Hood and King Arthur.
• The Major Oak Encampment, where strolling players, jesters, and medieval musicians perform beneath the canopy of one of Europe’s most famous ancient trees.
• Interactive Outlaw Trials, including archery lessons, axe-throwing workshops, and “Hunt the Outlaw” missions for children throughout the National Nature Reserve.
• The Medieval Market offers artisanal wares, traditional ironwork, and Nottinghamshire-themed food and drink from local vendors.
• Nottinghamshire Day Spectacular (Grand Finale Weekend) is a massive celebration of local culture featuring folk music, poetry workshops, and the festival’s most ambitious battle re-enactment.

Dates for 2026:

• Weekend 1: August 1 & 2 (Headline: Knights of Nottingham)
• Weekend 2: August 8 & 9 (Headline: Sherwood Outlaws & King Arthur Legends)
• Grand Finale: August 29 – 31 (Bank Holiday Weekend)

Address: Sherwood Forest National Nature Reserve: Broad Dr, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire, NG21 9RN, United Kingdom

Festival GUIDE:

• Parking & Access: Spaces at the Visitor Centre fill up rapidly; use the designated overflow parking and allow time for the scenic 15-minute woodland walk to the main arena.
• Bring a Picnic Blanket: Most arena shows and strolling performances are outdoors in natural clearings with limited seating; a waterproof mat or blanket is essential for comfort.
• Support the Forest: While entry to the festival is traditionally free, consider purchasing a festival programme or paying the parking fee, as proceeds support the RSPB’s conservation of the ancient oaks.

For more information about the Robin Hood Festival, click here. The Robin Hood Festival 2026 is primarily a FREE event, making it one of the most accessible family-friendly festivals in the UK.

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4. Blenheim Palace Jousting Tournament – Oxfordshire, UK 2026

The Blenheim Palace Jousting Tournament is a grand historical spectacle set against the breathtaking backdrop of a UNESCO World Heritage site. Held over the May Day Bank Holiday weekend, this event transports the magnificent palace grounds back to the Middle Ages for a weekend of chivalry and valor. Visitors can witness the power and precision of medieval knights as they compete for glory on the South Lawn. Combining the elegance of the 18th-century Baroque palace with the raw energy of a 15th-century tournament, the event offers a unique immersive experience that celebrates British heritage, royal history, and the timeless thrill of the joust.

Highlights:

• The Main Tournament features the Knights of Royal England clashing in full plate armor in an authentic, high-speed competition of skill and bravery.
• Medieval Falconry Displays showcase the ancient art of hunting with majestic birds of prey, featuring aerial demonstrations and educational talks.
• The Dragon Grotto and family activity zones, where younger visitors can participate in “Squire School” and learn the fundamentals of medieval combat.
• Living History Encampmentsare located within the palace gardens, where re-enactors demonstrate period crafts, cooking, and the daily life of a traveling knightly household.
• Strolling Minstrels and Jesters provide period-accurate entertainment and comedy as they roam the palace’s sprawling parkland.
• Artisan Food and Drink Market offering a selection of local Oxfordshire produce, traditional ales, and gourmet refreshments to enjoy during the festivities.

Dates for 2026: May 2, 3 & 4, 2026 (Bank Holiday Weekend)

Address: Blenheim Palace: Woodstock, Oxfordshire, OX20 1PS, United Kingdom

Festival GUIDE:

• Book Your Palace Entry: The Jousting Tournament is typically included with a “Park & Gardens” or “Palace, Park & Gardens” ticket; ensure you book online in advance for the best rates and guaranteed entry.
• Arrive for the Morning Shows: The first jousting displays of the day are often less crowded, giving you a better view of the action before the afternoon peak.
• Explore the Parkland: After the tournament, take the time to walk to the Great Lake or the Column of Victory to enjoy the scenery designed by “Capability” Brown, which looks stunning in early May.

For more information about the Blenheim Palace Jousting Tournament, click here. You can contact Euro Travelo to handle all your ticket and reservation needs.

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5. Avoncroft Living History Festival – Worcestershire, UK 2026

The Avoncroft Living History Festival is a remarkable multi-period journey through time, set within England’s first open-air museum. This immersive weekend brings together hundreds of re-enactors covering over 2,000 years of history, from the Roman occupation and the Middle Ages to the World Wars and the mid-20th century. Against the backdrop of Avoncroft’s unique collection of 30 rescued historic buildings—including a medieval townhouse, a windmill, and a prefab home—the festival creates a living timeline. It is an educational and sensory experience where the past is not just displayed, but inhabited, allowing visitors to walk through different eras in a single afternoon.

Highlights:

• Multi-Era Military Displays featuring tactical demonstrations and drills ranging from Viking shield walls and Napoleonic skirmishes to WWII infantry tactics.
• The Historic Building Trail, where each of the museum’s 30 structures is occupied by period-accurate residents, brings the architecture to life with authentic sights and smells.
• Traditional Craft Workshops showcase rare skills such as blacksmithing, weaving, and timber-framing, performed by expert artisans using ancient tools.
• The National Telephone Kiosk Collection offers a quirky detour into 20th-century history, featuring the UK’s largest collection of iconic red telephone boxes.
• Historic Folk Music and Dance with various groups performing traditional songs, sea shanties, and courtly dances throughout the museum grounds.
• The Miniature Steam Railway provides rides around the site, offering a charming perspective of the historic encampments and buildings.

Dates for 2026: April 25 & 26, 2026

Address: Avoncroft Museum of Historic Buildings: 86 Redditch Rd, Stoke Heath, Bromsgrove, B60 4JR, United Kingdom

Festival GUIDE:

• Wear Sturdy Footwear: The museum site covers 19 acres of varied terrain, including grass fields and historic stone paths; comfortable walking shoes are essential.
• Visit the Windmill: Don’t miss the 19th-century windmill; during the festival, it is often in operation, providing a rare look at traditional milling in action.
• Talk to the Re-enactors: The participants are incredibly knowledgeable; feel free to ask questions about their clothing, weapons, or daily lives for a deeper understanding of history.

For more information about the Avoncroft Living History Festival, click here. You can contact Euro Travelo to handle all your ticket and reservation needs.

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6. Stonor Park Medieval Jousting – Oxfordshire, UK 2026

Stonor Park Medieval Jousting is a high-octane celebration of chivalry and historical legend, set within the stunning private valley of one of England’s oldest family estates. The event honors the Stonor family’s direct connection to the Battle of Agincourt, where ancestor Lord Camoys commanded the left flank. Against the lush backdrop of the Chiltern Hills, the “Knights of Royal England” deliver a masterclass in medieval combat, combining spectacular horsemanship with the thunderous impact of splintering lances. With its unique blend of “panto-style” humor, audience interaction, and high-speed stunts, the festival transforms the parkland into a vibrant medieval arena designed to thrill both history buffs and families alike.

Highlights:

• The Knights of Royal England clashing at full gallop on magnificent Andalusian steeds, featuring stunt riding, foot combat, and the crowning of the tournament champion.
• Tumblestone Hollow Adventure Playground access is included, allowing children to explore high-level walkways, lookout decks, and bridges in a magical woodland setting.
• Falconry and Birds of Prey displays featuring hawks, owls, and falcons in aerial demonstrations that showcase the ancient art of medieval hunting.
• Living History & Firepower, where re-enactors demonstrate black powder weaponry and 15th-century drills, bringing the age of Agincourt to life.
• Medieval Activity Zones offering “have-a-go” sessions in archery and axe-throwing, led by experts to help visitors master these ancient skills.
• Gourmet “Meat & Mead” including wood-fired pizzas from “The Rumble Hut,” venison burgers from Stonor’s own fallow deer herd, and traditional medieval mead.

Dates for 2026:

• Spring Edition: May 2, 3 & 4, 2026 (May Day Bank Holiday Weekend)
• Autumn Edition: September 19 & 20, 2026 (Daily Jousting Tournaments typically held at 12:30 PM and 2:30 PM)

Address: Stonor Park: Stonor, Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire, RG9 6HF, United Kingdom

Festival GUIDE:

• Choose Your Side: The knights thrive on crowd energy—be prepared to pick a favorite and cheer loudly, or heckle the “baddies” to help influence the tournament’s outcome.
• Early Bird Savings: Stonor typically offers tiered pricing; booking “Early Bird” tickets online in advance can save you significantly compared to gate prices.
• Check the Weather: The arena is in an open valley; while the wood-fired pizza and mead are warming, the site can be breezy, so bring layers and a picnic blanket for the hillside seating.

For more information about Stonor Park Medieval Jousting, click here. You can contact Euro Travelo to handle all your ticket and reservation needs.

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7. JORVIK Viking Festival – York, UK 2026

The JORVIK Viking Festival is recognized as the largest event of its kind in Europe, a city-wide takeover that commemorates the rich Norse heritage of the ancient city of York (Jorvik). Held during the February half-term, the festival transforms the winding medieval streets into a bustling Viking stronghold. From living history encampments at St Sampson’s Square to the legendary Battle Spectacular under the shadow of Clifford’s Tower, the event honors the legacy of the Viking Age through immersive storytelling and historical accuracy. It serves as a grand celebration of the 10th-century sagas, where warriors, traders, and skalds descend upon the city to showcase the craft, combat, and culture that shaped Northumbria.

Highlights:

• The Battle Spectacular – A dramatic evening finale featuring hundreds of Viking warriors, pyrotechnics, and a theatrical retelling of Norse sagas against the city’s historic walls.
• The Viking Encampment – An immersive living history village where visitors can meet Norse settlers, watch traditional metalworking, and learn about Viking domestic life.
• Best Beard Competition – A world-famous and light-hearted festival tradition where participants of all ages (and homemade entries) compete for the title of the finest Norse facial hair.
• Strongest Viking Contest – A grueling display of ancient strength where modern-day warriors compete in trials of endurance and physical power.
• March to Coppergate – A magnificent column of hundreds of Vikings in full authentic kit marching through the city center, creating an incredible spectacle for onlookers.
• The 10th Century Traders’ Market – A curated gathering of specialized artisans selling hand-crafted hornware, ironwork, period jewelry, and authentic Norse weaponry.

Dates for 2026: February 16 – 22, 2026

Address: Various venues across York City Centre (Main Hubs: St Sampson’s Square, Parliament Street, and the Eye of York), North Yorkshire, United Kingdom.

Festival GUIDE:

• Book “Special Events” Early: While many street performances and the encampment are free, major events like the Battle Spectacular and the Viking Banquet sell out months in advance.
• Dress for the North: February in York can be bitterly cold and damp; wear warm, waterproof layers, as many of the best displays take place outdoors in public squares.
• Visit the Museum: Use the festival as an opportunity to visit the JORVIK Viking Centre; however, be sure to book a timed entry slot online to avoid the massive festival queues.

For more information about JORVIK Viking Festival, click here. You can contact Euro Travelo to handle all your ticket and reservation needs.

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8. Battle of Evesham – Worcestershire, UK 2026

The Battle of Evesham is one of Europe’s largest 13th-century reenactment festivals, commemorating the brutal clash of 1265 between Simon de Montfort and Prince Edward. Held in the heart of the town where the historic battle unfolded, the event transforms the riverside Crown Meadow into a massive medieval settlement. With over 500 reenactors, dozens of horses, and a sprawling, authentic camp, the festival offers a visceral look at the High Middle Ages. It is a powerful tribute to a pivotal moment in English history—the death of de Montfort and the birth of modern Parliament—blending intense military spectacle with the vibrant, daily life of a medieval community.

Highlights:

• The Grand Battle Re-enactment features hundreds of soldiers in authentic 13th-century mail and armor, recreating the tactical maneuvers and the dramatic final stand of Simon de Montfort.
• The Living History Camp, where over 30 medieval groups demonstrate period cooking, medicine, weapon maintenance, and the social hierarchy of a 1265 army on the move.
• Massive Medieval Market with over 100 stalls selling everything from hand-forged ironwork and historical clothing to artisan crafts and traditional mead.
• The Cavalry Display showcases the skill and power of medieval warhorses, including high-speed charges and demonstrations of horsemanship used during the Barons’ War.
• The Grand Parade through Evesham High Street on Saturday morning features a sea of banners, knights, and musicians marching to the beat of medieval drums.
• The Food & Drink Court offers local Worcestershire ales and a wide variety of “medieval-style” street food, perfect for enjoying while watching the arena displays.

Dates for 2026: August 1 & 2, 2026 (Daily hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM)

Address: Crown Meadow: Abbey Park, Evesham, Worcestershire, WR11 4SS, United Kingdom

Festival GUIDE:

• Pick a Spot on the Slope: The natural amphitheater of the Crown Meadow provides excellent views; bring a picnic blanket and claim a spot on the grass slope early for the best view of the battle.
• Explore the Abbey Ruins: Take a short walk from the meadow to Evesham Abbey to see the Simon de Montfort memorial, the site where the fallen leader was buried after the battle.
• Support the Event: While entry is free to the public, the festival is a charity event; look for the donation buckets or purchase a program to help keep this massive scale of history accessible.

For more information about the Battle of Evesham, click here. The Battle of Evesham Festival 2026 is FREE to attend.

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9. Glastonbury Abbey Medieval Fayre – Somerset, UK 2026

The Glastonbury Abbey Medieval Fayre is an award-winning historical extravaganza set within the legendary 36-acre grounds of one of England’s most mystical ruins. Recognized as the “Event of the Year” by regional tourism boards, the fayre transforms the hallowed site into a sprawling medieval kingdom. Visitors can wander through the iconic ruins while encountering hundreds of re-enactors, fire-breathing jesters, and master artisans. From the thrill of the jousting arena to the quiet alchemy of the Abbot’s Kitchen, the event seamlessly blends education with high-energy entertainment. It is a unique opportunity to experience the “cradle of English Christianity” as a living, breathing community of the Middle Ages, complete with the sights, sounds, and flavors of centuries past.

Highlights:

• The Grand Medieval Joust features the Knights of Royal England in a spectacular display of equestrian skill, lance-breaking hits, and high-speed stunts.
• The Living History Encampments scattered across the 36-acre site, showcasing daily life from various historical periods through authentic cooking, crafts, and weapons drills.
• “What A Palaver” Fire-Breathing Jester providing high-energy comedy, juggling, and death-defying fire antics that have become a staple of the Glastonbury experience.
• The Medieval Market & Food Village offers a vast array of unique artisan wares, historical trinkets, and “The Stagger Inn” bar serving traditional ales and mead.
• Interactive Alchemist & Storytellers, including “Merry Matilda,” who brings ancient folklore to life, and the Tudor Alchemist who demonstrates “mystical” 16th-century science.
• Have-a-Go Activities for all ages, including longbow archery, sword school, and the annual “Best Dressed” competition for visitors in period costume.

Dates for 2026: April 25 & 26, 2026 (Times: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Last entry at 5:00 PM)

Address: Glastonbury Abbey: Magdalene St, Glastonbury, Somerset, BA6 9EL, United Kingdom

Festival GUIDE:

• Utilize the Shuttle Bus: Parking in Glastonbury town is extremely limited; use the dedicated festival park-and-ride service for £5 per car to avoid the congestion of the narrow town center.
• Free Entry for Children: Under-16s can enter for free in 2026, but they still require a pre-booked “Free Child” ticket to be secured alongside an adult admission.
• Reusable Cup System: The on-site bar uses a reusable cup scheme; your first drink includes a £1 souvenir cup, which you can swap for a clean one throughout the day.

For more information about the Glastonbury Abbey Medieval Fayre, click here. You can contact Euro Travelo to handle all your ticket and reservation needs.

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10. Medieval Muncaster Festival – Cumbria, UK 2026

Medieval Muncaster is a spectacular week-long immersion into the Middle Ages, set against the dramatic and hauntingly beautiful backdrop of Muncaster Castle. Located on the edge of the Lake District, this festival transforms the historic estate into a bustling medieval stronghold. The event is famous for its high-energy atmosphere, blending authentic historical education with world-class entertainment. As the home of Tom Fool (the legendary jester who inspired the word “tomfoolery”), Muncaster offers a unique focus on medieval revelry, alongside the traditional thrills of knights, weaponry, and ancient crafts. It is a true “living history” experience that utilizes the castle’s majestic halls and sprawling wild gardens to bring the 15th century to life for the entire Spring Bank Holiday week.

Highlights:

• The Knights of Royal England Jousting features professional stunt riders clashing in the castle’s arena in a breathtaking display of bravery and equestrian skill.
• The Castle Siege & Skirmishes were rival factions’ battle for control of the fortress, showcasing medieval tactics, black powder weaponry, and hand-to-hand combat.
• The Muncaster Hawk & Owl Centre Displays featuring spectacular flying demonstrations of majestic birds of prey, highlighting their vital role in medieval hunting and status.
• Jester & Minstrel Performances honoring the castle’s heritage with fire-eating, juggling, and comedic storytelling from performers roaming the gardens.
• Living History Encampments are located throughout the grounds, where visitors can interact with re-enactors demonstrating medieval cooking, archery, and armor-smithing.
• The Weapons Hall & Activity Zone offers “have-a-go” sessions in archery, crossbows, and knight school for younger warriors looking to earn their spurs.

Dates for 2026: May 23 – May 31, 2026 (Spring Bank Holiday Week)

Address: Muncaster Castle: Ravenglass, Cumbria, CA18 1RQ, United Kingdom

Festival GUIDE:

• Combine with a Castle Tour: Your festival ticket typically includes access to the castle’s state rooms; don’t miss the chance to see the famous “Luck of Muncaster” and learn about the estate’s resident ghosts.
• Arrive via the “La’al Ratty”: For a truly unique arrival, take the Ravenglass & Eskdale Steam Railway to Ravenglass station; it’s a scenic walk to the castle and adds to the historic feel of the day.
• Check the Daily Schedule: Because the festival runs for nine days, specific headline events like the main jousting tournament may have different times each day—pick up a program at the gate.

For more information about Medieval Muncaster, click here. You can contact Euro Travelo to handle all your ticket and reservation needs.

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Tips for Attending Medieval Festivals in the UK

• Wear Sturdy Footwear: Festivals are held in open fields; expect uneven ground or mud. Hiking boots or flat walking shoes are essential.
• Carry Cash: Mobile signals are often weak in rural locations, making card machines unreliable. Use cash for parking, donations, and small stalls.
• Bring Ear Protection: The cannon fire and black powder explosions during battle re-enactments are extremely loud, especially for children and pets.
• Arrive Early for Battles: The best viewing spots at the “rope line” fill up fast; aim to claim your spot at least 60 minutes before the afternoon skirmish.
• Pack for the Elements: Most sites have very little shade. Bring sunscreen and hats for heat, or a waterproof poncho for the inevitable UK drizzle.
• Bring Your Own Seating: Seating is rarely provided at battle arenas. A lightweight folding camping chair or a waterproof picnic blanket is a lifesaver.
• Interact with Re-enactors: Most participants are happy to answer questions about their armor, crafts, and history while in their living history camps.

Booking with Euro Travelo

To secure your tickets and travel arrangements for any of these festivals, you can contact Euro Travelo for professional booking assistance.

Food Guide for Medieval Festivals in the UK 2026

Dining at a medieval festival ranges from authentic historical feasting to modern artisan street food. Here is a short guide to the culinary highlights for the top 2026 events.

• Tewkesbury Medieval Festival: Tewkesbury features a bustling medieval camp where traders offer traditional pork pies, local cheeses, and herbs. The signature beverage is the “Battlefield Ale,” a commemorative brew specifically crafted for the festival each year.
• The Loxwood Joust: This festival is famous for its Royal Banquet, a multi-course immersive feast featuring honeyed hams and local venison. In the “Mead Shack” and “Ship & Tavern,” visitors can enjoy locally produced Copper Pot Mead and various hog roasts from the banqueting fields.
• Robin Hood Festival: Set in Sherwood Forest, this family-friendly event is known for giant smoked turkey legs and wild boar sausages. Many stalls focus on forest-inspired fare, including hearty vegetable pottage and fruit crumbles.
• Blenheim Palace Jousting Tournament: Blenheim combines medieval action with upscale dining. Visitors often pre-order luxury picnic hampers or enjoy high-end venison burgers and artisan Oxfordshire cheeses from the surrounding food stalls.
• Avoncroft Living History Festival: This festival highlights period-accurate cooking demonstrations where re-enactors prepare broth over open fires. For modern comforts, the Guesten Hall Event Café and Edwardian Tea Room serve traditional cakes and light refreshments.
• Stonor Park Medieval Jousting: The focus here is on “Meat & Mead,” featuring gourmet burgers made from Stonor’s own fallow deer herd and wood-fired pizzas from the Rumble Hut. Traditional mead and local ales are served to accompany the jousting tournaments.
• JORVIK Viking Festival: The Viking Feast is the culinary centerpiece, offering a “Jarl’s Dinner” featuring wild boar, game pies, and honey-roasted root vegetables. Specialized bars throughout York also serve Nidhoggr Mead in traditional horn-style vessels.
• Battle of Evesham: The Crown Meadow transforms into a massive food court featuring traditional hog roasts with apple sauce and local Worcestershire cider. Artisan stalls also provide a variety of specialized medieval snacks like jerky and spiced breads.
• Glastonbury Abbey Medieval Fayre: This fayre offers a wide selection of Somerset street food, including savory galettes and traditional honey mead. The “Stagger Inn” provides a historical tavern atmosphere serving local ales and artisan ciders.
• Medieval Muncaster Festival: Muncaster focuses on traditional Cumbrian fare, with the Stables Café serving Cumberland sausages and hearty roasts. During festival week, outdoor stalls offer “peasant food” like beans and oats alongside wealthier options like venison and spiced meats.

Conclusion

Medieval festivals in the UK offer a rare bridge between the modern world and Britain’s deep-rooted historical identity. By transforming ancient castle grounds and historic meadows into “living museums,” these events allow visitors to step beyond the pages of a textbook and witness the visceral reality of 15th-century life. Whether it is the thunderous clash of lances at a palace tournament or the quiet artistry of a medieval blacksmith, these gatherings celebrate a shared cultural heritage with an authenticity that captivates both local communities and international travelers alike.

Ultimately, the enduring appeal of these festivals lies in their unique blend of educational immersion and high-stakes entertainment. As they evolve into the 2026 season, they continue to provide a space where legends like Robin Hood and King Arthur coexist with the documented history of the Wars of the Roses. For families and history enthusiasts, attending a medieval festival is more than just a day trip; it is an invitation to participate in a vibrant, sensory-rich tradition that keeps the spirit of the Middle Ages alive for future generations.

Ready to Discover Europe’s Top Events and Festivals?

If you’re ready to dive into Europe’s rich traditions, world-class music, and vibrant celebrations, we’ve got the ultimate guide to make your continental adventure unforgettable!

From the historic grandeur of Italy’s Umbria Jazz and the breathtaking Jazz à Vienne in France to the massive stages of the North Sea Jazz Festival and the floral beauty of the Tulip Festival, click the link below to explore Europe’s most iconic and must-see events:

Best Events and Festivals in Europe

Whether you’re captivated by legendary jazz performances, historic landmarks, or immersive cultural experiences, eurotravelo.com has all the insider tips to help you plan your perfect European getaway. Visit our site and start your journey across Europe today!

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FAQs

Do I need to book tickets in advance for these festivals?

For large-scale events at heritage sites like Blenheim Palace, Stonor Park, and Glastonbury Abbey, pre-booking is highly recommended and often mandatory for guaranteed entry. At Blenheim Palace, the jousting is included with a palace pass, which should be secured online to avoid disappointment. Conversely, the Tewkesbury Medieval Festival is free to attend with no tickets required; visitors simply turn up, though there is a small daily parking fee to support the volunteer-run event.

Are these festivals suitable for dogs?

Policies vary significantly between venues. Well-behaved dogs on short leads are typically welcome at the Tewkesbury Medieval Festival and the Battle of Evesham. However, dogs are often prohibited at the Blenheim Palace Jousting Tournament arena and within specific sensitive conservation areas of the Robin Hood Festival to protect local livestock and wildlife. Always check the specific event’s pet policy on their official website before traveling.

What should I expect in terms of loud noises and safety?

Medieval festivals are sensory-rich environments that include thunderous cannon fire, black powder explosions, and clashing steel. Re-enactments at Arundel Castle and the Battle of Evesham feature realistic skirmishes that can be very loud. It is strongly advised to bring ear defenders for young children and to keep a safe distance from the rope lines during “firepower” demonstrations. All combat is performed by trained professionals, and crossing arena barriers is strictly forbidden.

Is there specific family-friendly programming for children?

Most festivals offer dedicated Knight Schools or Squire Training where children can learn basic sword skills with foam or wooden trainers. At the JORVIK Viking Festival, children can participate in sword drills and craft workshops, while Stonor Park includes access to its Tumblestone Hollow adventure playground. These activities are designed to be both educational and interactive, ensuring history is accessible for all ages.

Can I attend in medieval costume and bring prop weapons?

Costume is highly encouraged at festivals like The Loxwood Joust and Glastonbury Abbey, where many visitors dress as knights, peasants, or traders to enhance the atmosphere. However, most venues have strict security policies regarding weaponry. Metal blades (even blunt ones) are usually banned for non-reenactors. Prop weapons made of foam or wood are generally allowed but may be subject to inspection or “peace-bonding” at the gate to ensure they aren’t used for play-fighting in crowded areas.