Armoured knights wielding swords and clubs will battle for glory in a series of fierce melees at a Suffolk castle this weekend.

East Anglian Daily Times: The knights will take part in a series of melees in the main arena: NIGEL WALLACE-ILESThe knights will take part in a series of melees in the main arena: NIGEL WALLACE-ILES (Image: � English Heritage Trust)

English Heritage’s Clash of Knights event at Framlingham Castle will see four teams testing their strength and honour as visitors are transported back to the chivalrous age of medieval times.

Tensions will rise, alliances will be made and broken but only one team will triumph.

Visitors will be able to watch arena displays in the first “Melee” and “Grand Melee” when swords will be wielded and helmets battered as the four teams of fully armoured knights in chain mail armed with shields and clubs try to protect their captain.

The only rule in Clash of Knights is no kicking, biting or gouging – everything else is fair game.

Rebecca Hornby, assistant events manager for English Heritage, said: “Part of our Medieval Knights Season of events, the Clash of Knights will bring Framlingham Castle to life this weekend. We will be travelling back through history to a time when the melee was the first common form of knights’ combat – used not only for preparation for war, but also for glory. It promises to be a great day out for families with something to keep everyone entertained.”

Visitors will also be able to take a look around the medieval encampments set up in the castle, watch the “Arming of the Knight” to see how they prepare for battle and even meet the warriors themselves.

Elsewhere in the castle grounds there will be medieval music, an archery tournament and a Children’s Battle for younger visitors who want to learn fighting techniques and test their strength.

Clash of Knights is on Saturday and Sunday from 10.30am – 5.00pm.

Visitors can save 10% by booking in advance by Friday. For more information, visit here.