A new Medieval Weapons Hall attraction will open at Muncaster Castle next month.
The immersive experience is one of the biggest developments at the castle for years and lets visitors try their hand at the skills of a medieval knight.
Ewan Frost-Pennington said the huge investment was his biggest gamble since taking control at the castle – his family’s ancestral home for 800 years. “My neck is definitely on the line!” he laughs.
The Weapons Hall at Muncaster is a purpose-built, covered, training ground where visitors will tackle archery and crossbow skills, jousting, sword-fighting and axe throwing – all under the guidance of experts.
.Each activity will last around an hour including safety instruction and activity training. The bonus activities of sword fighting and jousting will last around 15 minutes.
The Weapons Hall will also be available as part of a full Medieval Experience Day, which the castle is launching this year and will also include a private owl flying session and private tour of the 800-year-old castle.
“We can’t wait to show visitors this new attraction,” said Ewan, manager of operations at the castle.
“I’m confident they will love it when it opens – but it’s taken a great deal of planning and hard work so I am definitely feeling the pressure! My mum who is also my boss doesn’t mess around!”
The Weapons Hall at Muncaster Castle has purpose built ranges for testing out firing and throwing skills, a sword fighting cage and a miniature simulated “jousting” arena.
“We want people to come along with their family and friends and see if they have what it takes to become a Muncaster Knight!” Ewan added.
“We hope they throw down the gauntlet to each other in a contest of skill and nerve.”
The Weapons Hall is due to open on March 23.
