JOUST BRILLIANT!
Knight fever as crowds watch enemies go full tilt into battle
IT was a medieval martial art essential in preparing knights for war.
But while heavy horses and lances may have no place on the battlefield these days, jousting is still a breathtaking sight.
Hundreds of tourists enjoyed blue skies, soaring temperatures and lively combat at the annual Spectacular Jousting tournament in the grounds of Linlithgow Palace, West Lothian, at the weekend.
Contestants Sir Antoine le Grand and Sir Archibald Douglas provided much of the entertainment in the 21C (70F) heat.
Gillian Urquhart, events manager at Historic Environment Scotland, said: ‘Spectacular Jousting is one of our most popular occasions and we were excited to see what the knights brought to the arena this year. The event was a great day out.
‘I was delighted to see people come early to enjoy the family-friendly activities before cheering on their favourite knight.’
The audience witnessed the dramatic thunder of hooves and clashing of lances as they enjoyed the famous medieval sport – and ice cream, too, amid the heatwave.
Children explored ‘living history camps’ that brought the past to life in the guise of soldiers from the Middle Ages.
There were craft activities such as pop-up castle-making, as well as an archery demonstration. There was even a chance for junior jousting on hobby horses before a visit to the real horses in the stables.
Visitors also had the opportunity to use a ‘selfie booth’ which allowed them to take a mocked-up photograph of themselves taking part in their own joust.
One visitor tweeted: ‘It was a beautiful day out at Linlithgow Palace, it felt like being transported in time. My girlfriend and I both enjoyed it and the beautiful sunshine made it a great day out.’
Other events included a falconry show and musical acts that incorporated medieval instruments.
The whole day was topped off when the spectators were charged at by medieval re-enactors.
Linlithgow Palace was built by King James I in 1424, following a fire that ravaged the town.
It was the birthplace of both King James V and Mary Queen of Scots and was used as a royal rest stop between Edinburgh Castle and Stirling Castle.