Festival Attractions
Immerse yourself in the magic of medieval life with our curated experiences
Grand Tournament
Witness knights in shining armor clash in epic jousting matches and sword combat.
Watch skilled knights compete in full-contact jousting on horseback, using traditional lances and shields.
The sword combat arena features demonstrations of historical fighting techniques from across medieval Europe.
Choose your champion and cheer from the stands as they compete for honor, glory, and the title of Tournament Champion.
Between bouts, armorers and squires give talks on the craft of medieval weaponry and armor construction.
Minstrel's Hall
Enjoy performances from traveling bards, lute players, and storytellers.
The Minstrel's Hall hosts a rotating lineup of performers throughout the festival, from solo lute players to full medieval ensembles.
Dance to traditional melodies under the stars during the open-air evening performances.
Storytellers weave tales of legendary kings, mythical beasts, and heroic quests that will captivate audiences of all ages.
On Saturday evening, the hall transforms for a special acoustic session featuring period-accurate instruments.
Royal Feast
Indulge in an authentic medieval banquet featuring roasted meats, hearty stews, mead, and ales.
Dine like royalty in the Great Hall at long oak tables, served by costumed attendants in full medieval fashion.
The menu features spit-roasted meats, hearty pottage, fresh-baked bread, seasonal vegetables, and traditional desserts.
Mead, ale, cider, and non-alcoholic options flow freely throughout the feast.
Entertainment during the feast includes jesters, fire-breathers, and live minstrel performances.
Kingsflame Ceremony
Gather around the legendary bonfire as it's lit each night.
The Kingsflame is the heart of the festival — a great bonfire lit each evening in a ceremony that dates back centuries.
Fire dancers perform mesmerising routines around the flames, weaving trails of light through the darkness.
Elder storytellers share the legend of the original Kingsflame and the ancient traditions that surround it.
On the final night, the Farewell Ceremony invites all attendees to participate in a communal torch-lighting ritual.
Archery Range
Test your skill with traditional longbows and crossbows.
Professional archers provide hands-on instruction for complete beginners through to experienced shooters.
Try your hand with traditional English longbows, recurve bows, and medieval crossbows.
Competitions run throughout Saturday with categories for all ages and skill levels. Prizes awarded for top marksmen.
Children's sessions are available with lightweight bows and close-range targets.
Castle Tours
Explore the historic Maxstoke Castle with guided tours.
Expert historians lead guided tours through the castle's most significant chambers, corridors, and battlements.
Discover hidden rooms, secret passages, and the castle dungeon that most visitors never get to see.
Climb the ancient tower for panoramic views of the festival grounds and the surrounding English countryside.
Learn about the real battles, sieges, and political intrigue that shaped the castle's 800-year history.
Ready to Experience It All?
Secure your place at the Kingsflame Festival
Get Your Tickets