An exhilarating clash of power, pageantry and medieval theatre is set to unfold as the Knights of Royal England descend upon the grounds of Stonor Park and Tumblestone Hollow for a three-day spectacle over the early Bank Holiday weekend from 02 to 04 May.
Set against one of Oxfordshire’s most atmospheric historic estates, this immersive event transports visitors back in time with the return of full-contact jousting tournaments — a centrepiece that has become a firm favourite in the region’s spring calendar.
As the crowds gather, the arena will come alive with the thunder of hooves and the clash of lances. Knights in full armour will charge at speed, demonstrating exceptional horsemanship and precision as they compete in a display of strength, balance and courage that echoes the traditions of the medieval tournament field.
Beyond the jousting arena, the experience expands into a wider living history day out. Falconry displays bring a dramatic sweep to the skies, while visitors can try their hand at traditional skills including archery and axe-throwing — offering a rare chance to step directly into the practices of the Middle Ages.
For families, the event is designed to balance spectacle with play. While older children and adults immerse themselves in the arena activities, younger visitors can retreat to the expansive adventure world of Tumblestone Hollow.
With spiralling slides, hidden tunnels, climbing walls, rope bridges, a zip wire and imaginative wooden turrets, it is built for high-energy exploration. A dedicated toddler area, complete with water play features, ensures even the youngest guests are included in the experience.
Parents, meanwhile, can take a slower pace — coffee in hand or a cup of mead for those leaning fully into the theme — while enjoying the open green spaces that define the estate. Entry also includes access to the beautifully maintained gardens of Stonor, which are in full seasonal bloom during early May, offering a calm counterpoint to the day’s action.
The historic Stonor House will open its doors each afternoon across the weekend, adding another layer to the visit and completing what is designed as a multi-generational day out combining heritage, spectacle and outdoor leisure.
Louisa Fifield, general manager at Stonor Park, said: “Medieval jousting is one of our most popular weekends here at Stonor and marks the beginning of our vibrant events season.
“For families looking to ditch the screens and enjoy a value-for-money day out together creating memories in the great outdoors, or for locals, friends and groups who are searching for an exhilarating and unique experience in an uplifting setting with good food, our jousting weekend will certainly tick those boxes.
“We’d also like to encourage children to dress up in their finest medieval costumes and they will be invited into the arena at the end of each jousting tournament to receive a prize.”
Food and drink will be a central part of the weekend atmosphere, with a range of options available across the site including hog roast, wood-fired pizzas, gourmet burgers and fries, alongside a pop-up beer tent.
Taking place from Saturday 02 May to Monday 04 May, tickets are priced at £14.50 for adults, £15.50 for children aged five and over, and £13.45 for children aged 3–4. Family tickets are also available, priced at £40 for a family of three and £50 for a family of four.
Tumblestone Hollow offers free parking, with additional charges applying for archery and axe-throwing activities.
