Rebuilding the trebuchet
Warwick Castle is replacing its internationally famous medieval siege engine with a new, historically accurate replica that will be constructed by award-winning carpenters
One of the highlights of visiting Warwick Castle is its world-famous replica trebuchet. It is currently the world’s largest example of this particular type of war machinery and replicates original designs from the 13th and 14th centuries. For more than a decade, it has wowed visitors to Warwick who would watch specially trained trebuchet masters launch projectiles into the air. In recent years it has been out of action, with the current trebuchet being removed and dismantled. However, Warwick Castle is pleased to announce that the trebuchet is being brought back to life, giving visitors a chance to experience the jaw-dropping power of this historical war machine.
It has been confirmed that the siege machine is being replaced with a new working replica. This will enable the castle to once again unleash the power of the mighty trebuchet with a spectacular new show for all to enjoy.
The existing metalwork in the current trebuchet is being reused in the new machine and the castle has also appointed the award-winning designers Carpenter Oak to undertake the rebuild. Carpenter Oak not only built the current castle trebuchet but is also exceptionally experienced in recreating historically accurate siege weapons, including a Roman ballista and Leonardo da Vinci’s crossbow.
The new trebuchet will be made to the same specifications as the old one. It will be 18 metres tall, made from over 300 pieces of oak and weigh 22 tonnes. All the wood used is oak, except for the arm which is made from ash. The machine is capable of launching projectiles up to 250 metres.
Work on the replacement includes sourcing specialist wood from France and will see the carving of the wooden structure’s parts at Carpenter Oak’s specialist workshop. It will then be moved to the castle’s ‘River Island’ where onsite construction is expected to take 10 weeks. It is hoped the new trebuchet will be launched to the public in a live show at the castle in spring 2023.
Liam Bartlett, operations director at Warwick Castle, says: “For many years the trebuchet has been one of our most popular attractions and families would flock to see this exciting piece of authentic history in action. However, years of launching heavy projectiles hundreds of metres took its toll and the wear and tear got to the point where it was no longer safe to operate. We are delighted to be able to make this substantial investment to replace it and once again showcase this masterful piece of machinery. I can’t wait to see it unleashed again with a brand new show and I know our many visitors will feel the same.”