‘Terrible weather; brilliant event’ was the brief but accurate summary of one visitor. Secure in the Norman keep the Black Knight Historical  team, of which we were part, heard of the difficulties experienced by  other groups ranging from Roman to First World War as they battled high winds, lashing rain and damage to their tents. 

However, once visitors clambered up the stairs of the keep they were rewarded not only by shelter but the sight of the castle going about its business. Men at arms and armoured knights challenged them on their loyalties though Prince John did his best to convince children that Richard the Lionheart, currently captive in Germany, was no substitute for a real prince ready to hold the throne. For those needing to rest on their way up the flights of stairs, Brother Ranulph’s chapel where he said the offices daily in Latin, was a welcome relief. In the Great Hall there were preparations for the daily meal, which was taken formally with an accompanying commentary from Ian of Black Knight Historical.

Beyond the Great Hall, in the Throne Room, members of The Guild portrayed Eleanor of Aquitane and her attendant, Lady Alys, engaged in collecting the enormous ransom demanded for Richard’s release. Offers of gold, jewels, hostages, and in one instance a piece of fudge, were graciously accepted. Other members of the team for this event showed children how to handle a shield and different weapons of the period.

Foreign visitors to the castle were delighted by the experience though puzzled by the fact that the Queen on the throne didn’t look like the pictures they had seen of Queen Elizabeth. It was a brilliant bank holiday weekend, well organised and well attended.  We have a small gallery of photos that show our part in the weekend, as usual in the 2008 gallery, but for others, visit the Black Knight Historical website at

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