HISTORY enthusiasts can experience combat from a bygone era at Arundel Castle next month.

The 12th Century Knights will be going into battle there on September 15.

Weapons and armour demonstrations in the Duke Henry Courtyard will reveal the different equipment and fighting tactics that dominated this period.

Visitors will be able to see a shield wall in action and gain a sense of the importance of teamwork in Norman warfare – the era in which is castle was built.

Archery demonstrations will show three different types of bow.

A garrison of knights will work together against the archers, showing why the bow was such a dominant weapon – but how it was not impossible to overcome.

Spears, maces, swords and shields, as well as maille armour, will be used throughout the day and the event will conclude with a demonstration of all the weapons and combat techniques together.

From the lowest workers to the Earl and Countess of Arundel, visitors will also be introduced to characters who represent the

real people who lived and worked in the castle 900 years ago.

A variety of historical craft demonstrations in the Barbican Rooms and Stone Hall until 1pm will show what life was like for people in the 12th century.

Castle manager Stephen Manion said: “We want our visitors to really experience history.

“We will depict what life was like for a variety of different people who would have been living in Arundel Castle, allowing visitors to fully grasp the social hierarchy and what clothing meant to the different social classes, even on the battlefield.

“All the weapons, costumes and crafts are as historically accurate as possible.

“For schools and families, this event offers a chance to kick-start term time with an immersive living history experience.

“We engage and inspire young minds by allowing them to experience history as it would have been – alive, walking, talking and, of course, fighting.”

The 12th Century Knights At The Castle show is included in standard admission prices to Arundel Castle and will run from 10am to 3.30pm on Sunday, September 15.

Tickets will be available at the gate.