Blenheim Palace will be alive to the thunder of hooves and the clash of lances on shields at it hosts the Knights of Middle England Jousting Tournament from April 30th- May 2nd.

Visitors will be transported back in time to the glorious jousting matches of Britain's past.

Marvel as knights in shining armour take to the field on their noble steeds in a display of bravery and skill against the spectacular backdrop of Britain's greatest palace.

On Sunday, May 1st there will be two British Sign Language Jousting Performances taking place at midday and 3pm. These two shows are included in the ticket price but spaces are limited so people who want to attend should book online prior to their visit.

The Knights of Middle England recreate the exciting and colourful era of the Middle Ages with their action packed, high-octane jousting and stunt show.

With over 20 years' experience in live stunt shows, equestrian displays and activity days, they are a professional team of stunt riders, performers, actors and combatants who bring the much-fabled sport of jousting full tilt into the 21st Century.

The spectacular tournament provides the perfect opportunity to see pageantry, competition and tradition combined in an elegant, unusual and exciting equestrian event.

The Blenheim estate is no stranger to hosting jousting tournaments. In 1389 John, Earl of Pembroke, was killed in a jousting accident while a Christmas guest at the old Woodstock royal palace.

• For details and to book online visit blenheimpalace.com. Entry to the tournament is included with Palace, Park and Gardens tickets. Visitors can convert their day ticket into a free Annual Pass. Please note there will be a Mobiloo, an attended mobile changing facility for people with specific personal care needs, on site on 1st May.

Issued on behalf of Blenheim Palace. For more information please contact Ellen Gray at EGray@blenheimpalace.com or Ollie Young at ollie@flamingo-marketing.co.uk .

About Blenheim Palace

Home to the Dukes of Marlborough since 1705, the Oxfordshire Estate was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.

Set in over 2,000 acres of 'Capability' Brown landscaped parkland and designed by

Vanbrugh in the Baroque style, Blenheim Palace is also the birthplace of one of Britain's most famous leaders, Sir Winston Churchill and it was his father who described the vista, on entering the Estate from the village of Woodstock, as the 'finest view in England'.