HENRY VIII PAGEANTRY RETURNS ‘JOUST’ AROUND THE CORNER…….

2nd July 2026 Stuart Higgins

Hear the thunder of galloping horses. Feel the clash of armour. Watch fearless knights battle for glory.

Make it a day to remember at Hampton Court Palace this July, with excitement, pageantry, and the return of Henry VIII’s Joust.

For two weekends only, step back in time and watch fearless knights clash in a thrilling tournament at the magnificent home of King Henry VIII.

Pick your family’s team of knights, cheer them on together, and follow the drama as the contest unfolds until one team reigns supreme.

Keep your eyes peeled, and you may even see the King himself taking part — rumour has it he’s keen to impress a captivating new lady at court, though it’s probably best the Queen doesn’t hear about that!

Alongside the excitement of the joust, enjoy breathtaking falconry displays and discover these majestic birds up close.

When

11-12 and 18-19 July 2026

Ticketing information

Under 5s go free. Members go free, pre-booking required.

Included in palace admission. (Members go free, pre-booking required)

Buy Hampton Court Palace tickets Member tickets

Pre-booking recommended. Performances take place at set times daily (please see below).

Footnote; Did you know?

Henry VIII suffered a severe jousting accident when he left his visor up. In March 1524, while testing a new suit of his own design at Greenwich Palace, Henry forgot to lower the visor of his helmet. His opponent, Charles Brandon, Duke of Suffolk, was unable to see the king’s bare face and struck him with a lance just above his right eye. While he survived the incident, historians note that the trauma caused severe migraines that plagued him for the rest of his life.

When

Ticketing information

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