| Arundel Castle is proud to announce its lineup of events for 2025, featuring unforgettable historical experiences designed to enchant visitors of all ages. Witness the past come to life through immersive historical reenactments, enjoy insightful guided tours, take part in family-friendly activities, revel in live performances, and behold the heart-pounding excitement of jousting. Here’s what awaits in 2025:
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Easter Medieval Festival
Step back into the year 1214 for an Easter weekend steeped in history and adventure at Arundel Castle. Explore a time when King John had called upon his barons to rally men and supplies for a daring campaign to reclaim Normandy from Philip, King of France. In preparation, the Earl of Arundel will be training his gathered forces, honing their combat and archery skills for the journey ahead.
For three days, the Castle’s lower lawns will transform into a lively medieval encampment, featuring captivating displays of 13th-century combat, falconry, and archery. Enjoy live music, try your hand at archery and explore an activity-packed craft tent. With plenty of hands-on activity, there is something for everyone to discover at this interactive medieval experience.
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Tulip Festival
Discover the splendour of Arundel Castle’s renowned tulip festival, an annual springtime tradition that’s now celebrated as one of the UK’s premier gardening events. Against the stunning backdrop of the historic castle, feast your eyes on a dazzling display of colour, with over 100,000 tulip bulbs in full bloom, showcasing 120 unique varieties. This vibrant spectacle is the result of the dedication and artistry of the castle’s acclaimed Head Gardener, Martin Duncan, and his talented team. Don’t miss the chance to encounter this magnificent celebration of nature’s brilliance. |
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Allium Extravaganza
Step into a world of botanical wonder this May as the Allium Extravaganza transforms the gardens of Arundel Castle into a sea of vibrant blooms. These spectacular flowers, with their globe-like shapes and bold colours, rise majestically on tall stems, creating a scene that’s both elegant and dramatic. The event showcases an enchanting array of alliums, from the soft whites of Cowanii and Mont Blanc varieties, set against the serene backdrop of the Fitzalan Chapel’s White Garden, to the lively hues scattered across the English herbaceous borders. This striking floral delight promises a truly remarkable occasion for garden enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. |
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Medieval Festival – A Skirmish
Experience the drama of 1474 as Arundel Castle becomes the stage for a gripping clash between England and France. While the Earl’s forces are deployed abroad, a daring French raiding party lands on the coast, intent on capturing the castle and plundering the South Coast. With only a small garrison force left to defend it, the Earl’s household must unite to repel the attack and hold their ground until reinforcements arrive. Visitors can step into the heart of the action with three immersive tented encampments showcasing authentic 15th-century crafts, cooking, weaponry and armour. Get hands-on with activities such as archery and witness the excitement of two daily skirmishes as the garrison and raiders clash. Perfect for all ages, this event offers a unique opportunity to take in the sights, sounds, and spirit of a medieval English battle. |
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Medieval Weekend Festival
Arundel Castle comes alive with the excitement of its Medieval Festival Weekend, and this time the clocks are turning back to 1471. Set against the backdrop of the lower lawns, visitors can join in the Earl of Arundel’s grand celebration of the end of the War of the Roses. Highlights include a thrilling knights foot tournament and a dramatic archery contest featuring competitors from England, France, Poland, and the Holy Roman Empire. Explore the tented encampment and a bustling market, where historic crafts and skills are brought to life through engaging demonstrations. Behold spectacular displays of combat, falconry, fire eating and, of course, archery. For those eager to join the action, a variety of interactive challenges await, making this an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages |
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International Medieval Jousting Tournament
The International Jousting Tournament returns to Arundel Castle for another spectacular showdown. Spanning six days, this year’s tournament features eight world-class competitors divided into four teams, each representing their home countries from around the world. Knights will not only battle for individual glory but also showcase their nation’s honour in this prestigious event. The arena will also host captivating falconry displays, a daring fire-eater, and the renowned Arundel Castle ‘Kids Battle.’ Across the grounds, visitors can enjoy medieval music performances and try their hand at activities like archery, warrior training, and axe throwing. For those looking to indulge, the Knights’ Table, complete with a festival bar, will also be serving a spectacular feast. Tickets grant entry to the castle, gardens and grounds, as well as full event access. This is medieval pageantry and prowess at its finest—an unmissable event for both history enthusiasts and thrill-seekers. |
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History Days
Bring the whole family to experience history in action with a variety of fascinating historical characters, including a Norman knight, a pirate, and a medieval archer. Try your hand at exciting activities like axe throwing, crossbow shooting, and warrior training, or join in the fun with the popular kids battle. Explore the craft tent and learn some ancient skills, while enjoying performances from a storyteller, a face painter, a musician, and a falconer. With something for everyone, this event offers a thrilling mix of activities, entertainment, and historical interaction for all ages. |
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Shakespeare open-air theatre: The Merry Wives of Windsor
Arundel Castle’s Earl’s Garden will become a vibrant outdoor theatre for a special performance of Shakespeare’s uproarious comedy The Merry Wives of Windsor. Set against the captivating backdrop of the cathedral, this unique production, hosted by Illyria1, is the perfect way to kick off the Arundel Festival of the Arts. Expect a night filled with laughter as the ever-scheming Falstaff, strapped for cash, attempts to woo the wives of two wealthy merchants. Little does he know, these women are best friends – and after receiving identical love letters from Falstaff, they hatch a plan to teach him a lesson he won’t forget. With the help of their husbands and friends, the merry wives lure the hapless knight to a haunted forest where he’ll face the consequences of his wrongdoings. |
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Festival of History
Arundel Castle’s Festival of History brings 12,000 years of history to life. This three-day event delves into the evolution of costume, armour, weapons and battle tactics from the Stone Age through to the 20th century. Experience thrilling combat displays, including Roman gladiators, Norman knights, and medieval artillery demonstrations. The festival also features extraordinary falconry displays and showcases of ancient crafts, with five living history groups and individual interpreters presenting skills such as forging and leatherwork. |
