Clash of Steel: Medieval Knights and the Legend of St. George

18 & 19 April 2026

On the weekend before St Georgeโ€™s Day, explore the reality behind the myth of the legendary knight.

This living history event offers a rare chance to see how knights were armed for combat, learn medieval dances, practice archery, and witness authentic armoured fighting in the arena. Through demonstration and participation, visitors will discover the skills, discipline and teamwork that defined warfare and society in the Middle Ages.

An engaging and interactive journey into Englandโ€™s medieval past.

Two medieval knights in armour fighting with swords and shields

Witness the Battle of the Knights

Be transported back to the 14th Century with The Plantagenets, who will recreate the pageantry, excitement and action of medieval combat.

Discover how medieval knights would be armed and the armour that protected them in battle, then witness fully armoured knights as they display chivalry and courage during full contact combat.   

The Horse and St. George

Get up close to the magnificent warhorse and maybe give him a carrot.

Discover how St. George influenced chivalry and see a display of a knightโ€™s skill on horseback.

A knight in armour on a white horse

Have a Go Archery and Squire Training

Life in the Medieval Court

Cheer on your favourite in the archery display, take part in 14th Century dancing and talk with the knights, ladies and squires about their medieval life.

A lady dressed in medieval clothing with an elaborate headdress is dancing outside

Step Into the Past with Our Annual Memberships

Get unlimted daytime entry to the Museum for a whole year

A man dressed in medieval style clothes with a bow and arrow

Event Information

  • This is a Premium Admission Day

  • Free entry for COAM Annual Members

  • Activities take place between 11am and 4:30pm

11am - Archery Display followed by Have a Go Archery (limited spaces)

12pm - Arming the Knight

1pm - Squire Training (limited spaces)

1:35pm - The Horse & St. George

2:15pm - Courtly Dancing

3pm - Knights Armed Combat Display followed by Show and Tell

All timings are approximate and activities may be subject to change.

Meet the Re-enactors

The Plantagenet Medieval Archery and Combat Society is a re-enactment group that have been thrilling, educating and entertaining audiences across the UK and internationally for over 40 years. With their engaging and unique blend of drama, humour and audience involvement, The Plantagenet Medieval Societyโ€™s shows create a memorable day out for the whole family.

Two men dressed as medieval knights  - one is holding a spear

General Museum Information

With 45 acres at your disposal, there is plenty to explore, including woodlands and an exciting adventure playground

Dogs on short leads are welcome but must not go inside residential buildings

Light lunches, drinks, cakes and snacks are available to purchase from our Skippings Barn

Sensory backpacks are available to borrow (subject to availability)

Mobility scooters are available to borrow (subject to availability - pre-booking is advised)

Lots of free parking

Photography and filming may take place during this event for the Museum archives and publicity. These photographs and video footage may appear in promotional or educational materials including on our websites, social media pages, newsletters, or in newspapers and magazines. If you do not wish to be photographed, please speak to the photographer.