Medieval Jousting 2026 – Henley-on-Thames, United Kingdom
Overview
The Medieval Jousting tournament at Stonor Park is a high-octane historical spectacle that brings the legendary Knights of Royal England to the undulating parkland of the Stonor Valley. Set against the backdrop of one of the oldest family-owned manor houses in Britain, the event recreates a traditional tilt yard where armored knights clash at full speed on their powerful Andalusian steeds. The tournament is meticulously choreographed but features real-action combat, where the goal is to shatter lances against opponents’ shields in a display of incredible equestrian skill and bravery.
In 2026, the festival expands its immersive atmosphere to include the magical “Tumblestone Hollow” adventure playground, making it a premier destination for families during the May Bank Holiday. Attendees can expect a vibrant mix of historical reenactments, period music, and interactive activities that celebrate the heritage of the Stonor family, whose ancestor Lord Camoys was a key commander at the Battle of Agincourt in 1415. The natural bowl shape of the parkland provides a perfect natural amphitheater for spectators to witness every strike and stunt of the 45-minute main displays.
Event Highlights
- The Main Tilt: Knights engage in a series of live-action jousts and foot combat, culminating in a final crowning of the tournament champion based on crowd involvement and skill.
- Tumblestone Hollow Access: A jousting ticket includes full entry to the forest-themed adventure playground, featuring high-level walkways, lookout decks, and intricate treehouses.
- Archery & Weaponry: Experts demonstrate the power of medieval longbows and black powder weapons, with “have-a-go” archery sessions available for visitors of all ages.
- Falconry Displays: Spectacular birds of prey take to the skies above the manor house, showcasing the hunting techniques that were essential to the medieval aristocracy.
Why Attend
History fans and thrill-seekers should attend this event to witness the Knights of Royal England at one of their favorite and most challenging venues. The sloped terrain of Stonor Park adds a layer of difficulty to the jousting that you won’t see at flatter tournament sites, making for more dramatic and unpredictable equestrian stunts. It is a rare opportunity to see historical heritage preserved in a way that is genuinely exciting and accessible, rather than just observational.
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Furthermore, the festival is the ultimate May Bank Holiday outing for families. Because the ticket price covers the jousting, the formal gardens, and the extensive adventure playground, it offers a “full day” of value that caters to different age groups simultaneously. Whether you are interested in the 850-year history of Stonor House or your children want to explore the zip wires of Tumblestone Hollow, the event provides a cohesive and well-organized experience in the heart of the Chiltern Hills.
Date & Duration
- Event Timeline: The tournament is scheduled for the May Bank Holiday weekend, Saturday, May 2 through Monday, May 4, 2026.
- Daily Schedule: The grounds open at 10:00 AM, with the high-impact jousting displays typically held at 12:30 PM and 2:30 PM each day.
Visiting this event? Don’t miss out on these amazing activities and local experiences while you’re here.
Venue / Location
- City and Country: The event is located in Stonor, near Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom.
- Primary Venue: Stonor Park and Gardens, including the arena at Tumblestone Hollow.
- Google Maps Address: Stonor Park, Henley-on-Thames RG9 6HF, United Kingdom.
Ticket Information
- Sales Channels: Tickets are available for pre-booking through the Stonor Park official website, with early bird discounts often applied to online purchases.
- Admission Type: Tickets are “all-inclusive,” providing access to the Jousting Tournament, Tumblestone Hollow, and the Stonor Gardens.
- Ticket Pricing: Adult early bird tickets are typically priced at approximately $18 (£14), while child tickets (ages 2-15) are roughly $15 (£11.50).
- Admission Categories: Children under the age of 2 and registered carers are granted free entry to the event.
- Member Benefits: Stonor Season Ticket holders usually receive a 15% discount off the gate price for special event entry.
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Contact Information
- Email Contact: enquiries@stonor.com
- Phone Support: +44 1491 638587
- Official Website: https://www.stonor.com/events/medieval-jousting/
- Social Media:
- https://www.instagram.com/stonorpark/
- https://www.facebook.com/stonorpark
- https://twitter.com/stonorpark?lang=en-gb
Getting There
- Nearest Airports: London Heathrow (LHR) is the closest international airport, located just 40 minutes away by car.
- Public Transport: The nearest train station is Henley-on-Thames; from there, it is a 10-minute taxi ride north to the estate.
- Taxi/Rideshare: Local taxi services in Henley are familiar with the estate; a trip from the station typically costs between $15 and $25.
- Parking: Extensive on-site parking is available on the parkland for no additional fee; visitors are advised to follow the yellow event signs on the B480 road.
- Route Advice: If traveling via the M40 from the East, exit only at Junction 6 (Watlington) to avoid narrow lanes that can significantly increase travel time.
Accommodation Options
- Luxury Hotels: Hotel Du Vin Henley (4-star, 7 km, a converted classic brewery on the riverfront, ~$250-$400/night); The Relais Henley (5-star, 7 km, historic riverside inn ~$280-$450/night).
- Mid-Range Options: Phyllis Court Club (4-star, 7 km, elegant private club with guest rooms, ~$160-$260/night); The Catherine Wheel (Inn, 7 km, reliable Wetherspoon hotel in the town center ~$90-$140/night).
- Budget Stays: Travelodge High Wycombe Central (3-star, 15 km, reliable comfort, ~$70-$120/night); Premier Inn High Wycombe Central (3-star, 15 km, family rooms ~$75-$130/night).
Reviews
- Crowd Interaction: The knights are fantastic at getting everyone to cheer for their favorites and boo the “villains”—the energy in the arena is infectious.
- Venue Setting: Watching the horses gallop across such a beautiful, undulating landscape makes the joust feel much more authentic than a flat arena.
- Total Day Out: Between the jousting, the falconry, and the massive playground, my kids were entertained for six hours straight.
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FAQ's
What kind of food and drink can I find at the event?
The "Rumble Hut" at Tumblestone Hollow serves a variety of refreshments including wood-fired pizzas, gourmet burgers, and artisan fries. For a more authentic experience, you can find "meat and mead" stalls, alongside Rebellion beer and Italian-style gelato. Visitors are also permitted to bring their own picnics to enjoy in the gardens, though food cannot be consumed inside the playground equipment areas.
Is it possible to meet the knights and their horses?
Yes, the Knights of Royal England usually hold "meet-and-greet" sessions both before and after the tournament displays. This is a great opportunity for photos and to ask the jousters about their equipment and the training of their Andalusian steeds. The knights are very friendly and often stay in character, providing a wonderful interaction for younger fans.
Is the tournament suitable for very young children?
The event is designed to be family-friendly, though parents should be aware that jousting involves loud noises, clashing armor, and a high-energy atmosphere. Most children find the spectacle thrilling, especially with the comedic commentary provided throughout the show. For children who need a break from the action, the Tumblestone Hollow playground offers a more relaxed, physical outlet.
What should I wear for a day at Stonor Park?
As the event takes place primarily on grass and parkland, sturdy footwear like trainers or walking boots is highly recommended, especially if you plan to climb the structures in Tumblestone Hollow. The Oxfordshire countryside can be unpredictable in May, so it is wise to bring layers and a waterproof jacket. Many families also bring picnic blankets or folding chairs to sit on around the jousting arena.
Is Stonor House open during the Medieval Jousting weekend?
While the Gardens and Tumblestone Hollow are included in the jousting ticket, access to the interior of Stonor House often requires a separate or upgraded ticket. The house has been the home of the Stonor family for over eight centuries and contains a wealth of art and historical artifacts. It is recommended to check at the visitor entrance upon arrival if you wish to add a house tour to your day.
