BY popular demand, English Heritage’s Legendary Joust and Knights’ Tournament will each be returning twice to Pendennis Castle this summer.

Perched on the headland looking out to Falmouth and St Mawes, the grounds of the castle will be transformed for 12 days throughout the summer for these special events.

First off, locals and holidaymakers will be entranced by history’s most spectacular sporting content at the Legendary Joust, taking place between July 30 and August 1, and again between August 13 and 15.

Four fearless riders, each representing a character from myth or legend – The Wyvern, The Wildman, Sir Lancelot and Jason of the Argonauts – will try to best each other to be crowned champion.

In between the action, visitors will be able to interact with characters from the past to find out what life was like in the medieval period. Young lords and ladies of the castle can even test their aim with ‘have-a-go’ archery.

Another four brave knights will fight to impress the crowds at the Knights’ Tournament, which will be held between August 6 and 8 and August 20 and 22. Each will be put to the test in their battle strength and skills, including sword-fighting and archery, with their trusty squires helping them prepare for each round.

Excitingly, a female knight will be competing for the first Tournament. While technically women could not become knights in the medieval period, there are examples of women who took up arms at this time.

Visitors will be able to meet her and watch all the knights get donned up in their armour ready to fight. A living history encampment will set up in the castle grounds for tournament with medieval music and fire-breathing Jester.

“Each event will be an amazing display of courage and chivalry,” says Ella Harrison, events manager at English Heritage. “Visitors and families especially love cheering on their favourite knights and talking to our reenactors about their kit, weaponry, and tactics. We’re definitely expecting huge support for our female knight this year which will be fun.”

For more information on events at Pendennis Castle and to book, visit www.english-heritage.org.uk