HISTORY is repeating itself at Warwick Castle.
The jousting spectacle War of the Roses Live is set to return on Saturday (May 26) and visitors must pledge allegiance to either the House of York or the House of Lancaster.
The Observer had a sneak preview at what can be expected at the event – which will see a 2,000-strong cheering crowd in the jousting arena as the pummeling of horses’ hooves and the splintering of lances reverberates throughout.
The Wars of the Roses saw two sides of the same fractured royal family battle, besiege and betray each other for three bloody decades of the 15th century. Across England, brother fought brother, cousin slayed cousin, all vying for the English crown.
And the retelling by Warwick Castle proved a hit with the audience both young and old.
Wars of the Roses Live is set in a specially-constructed riverside arena and promises a fist-thumpingly spectacular show of knightly heroism, demanding bold battle strategy and fearless fighting from both sides.
Key players in the wider Wars of the Roses story with direct links to Warwick Castle include Richard Neville, Earl of Warwick – known as The Kingmaker, who switched sides from York to Lancaster and imprisoned Edward VI – who he had helped ascend the throne – at the castle; and The Kingmaker’s daughter, Anne Neville – born at Warwick – who became Queen of England upon marriage to Richard III.
To celebrate the launch of the event the castle also turned its medieval gaol into a family-friendly escape room experience including live actors.
Those wanting to turn a fun day out into a break can also stay at one of the castle’s lodges or glamping pods, which include entry and breakfast along with evening entertainment.
War of the Roses Live is included in the standard castle admission price.
Visit www.warwick-castle.com/wars-of-the-roses for full details.
