Historical fun at Bolsover Castle battle event

Bolsover Castle has been refurbished and will be open to the public. Pictured is Mark Wallis dressed as William Cavandish.

English Heritage is once again staging the ultimate in competitive historical combat as four teams attempt to emerge victorious from a recreated “Crest Melee” on 31st May and Sunday 1st June.

The event will have three stages of the competition, with the first round being a display of precision and power as the archers in the teams will attempt to repel ferocious opponents bearing down on them.

This will then catapult the leaders into the Crest Melee, before the ultimate “Grand Melee” as all four teams battle it out to find the ultimate winner, amid rapturous support as visitors are encouraged to pick a side and cheer them to victory!

David Edwards, Events Manager at English Heritage said: “Following on from the success and excitement of the Siege earlier this month, the battle is getting tougher.

“We will be travelling further back in history to the iconic image of medieval past, when the melee was the first common form of knights’ combat – used not only for preparation for war, but also for glory. With the unique surroundings of the newly represented Bolsover Castle, Clash of Knights is sure to be a highlight of the event season.”

Visit www.english-heritage.org.uk/bolsovercastle