Plenty of hands-on experiences amid the medieval mayhem as Loxwood Joust 2021 gets ready
Billed as the “UK’s most spectacular medieval festival”, Loxwood Joust is stepping up a gear in 2021 with a new participatory element for its ten-year anniversary.
The event runs at The Loxwood Meadow, Loxwood, RH14 0AL on August 7, 8, 14 and 15. More details on www. loxwoodjoust.co.uk.
Organiser Danny Bacon said: “Teaming up with immersive events organiser Mostly Harmless Creations (Crystal Maze Live, Knightmare Live), the Loxwood Joust will this year expand upon its already packed agenda of fast-paced jousting, battle re-enactments and musical performances to offer guests the chance to step inside this year’s story. Visitors will get to know the lords, ladies, knights and peasants; rub shoulders with the Royal Court and help decide the fate of the ne’er-dowells that roam the kingdom.
“Guests will enter the realm via the magical forest and be met by an array of colourful characters, each with a story to tell, rumours to spread or a favour to ask.
“Accept the right invitations, choose a quest and become an official ‘Citizen of Loxwood’ in this unique experience.”
Danny added: “With ten exciting years to celebrate, we’re providing opportunities for the whole family to participate in the Loxwood Joust rather than just to spectate.
“We know from feedback that people love interacting with the Joust’s characters. So, with a quest to become an official ‘Citizen of Loxwood,’ and the chance to have an impact on the outcomes of this year’s story, we are proud to say this will be a first for a festival of this kind.”
Mostly Harmless Creations
artistic director Paul Flannery added: “People want to take part as much as watch, these days. That’s what we do: we create a framework to allow people to get as involved as they want in the world and the stories we’re telling. It’s the age of play.”
“Festival-goers will be able to learn from the medieval characters who live in the battle camp, wander the grounds and become entwined in this year’s stories and outcomes.”
Add-on experiences include: • Handfasting ceremonies • Blacksmithing workshops • Sword school (in the children’s kingdom) • Copper bowl making • Chain mail making • Singing workshops with the Medieval Baebes • Medieval banquets Experiences must be booked in advance when booking tickets at www. loxwoodjoust.co.uk.
The Loxwood Joust is located just off the B2133 between Wisborough Green and Loxwood and has ample free parking. Danny added: “You can buy tickets on the gate, or in advance at www. loxwoodjoust.co.uk
“If coming by car there are signs in place as you get closer to the Joust.
“We have car parking on site but we also have a minibus service running from Horsham train station if you would rather partake of our mead! More details of the bus timetable and directions on the website. You can buy your tickets by cash or credit card on the gate; however since credit card facilities were not available in medieval times you may find cash a little faster here!”