International Jousting Tournament
Easter Family Entertainment at the Royal Armouries, Leeds
Posted on 28th February 2026
Real jousting is coming back to the Royal Armouries in Leeds this Easter, and it’s faster, louder, and more thrilling than any Hollywood movie.
From Friday 3rd to Monday 6th April, the museum’s purpose-built outdoor Tiltyard will echo with the thunder of hooves and the splintering of lances as the International Jousting Tournament 2026 officially kicks off.
This isn’t just a "show." This is a high-octane, full-contact competition. There are no scripted "good guys" or "bad guys" here—just world-class knights in authentic 15th-century-style plate armour, charging at each other.
This year, teams from the UK, Poland, and Portugal are battling it out for the ultimate glory. Every strike counts, and the precision required to hit a moving target while managing a charging warhorse is nothing short of incredible.
Plus
- Combat Demos:Watch the museum’s expert interpreters show off the brutal efficiency of historical weaponry.
- Living History:From medieval-themed food stalls to live music, the grounds feel like a step back in time.
- For the Spoken Word Fans: The high-energy LIVEwire Poetry returns on Monday 2 March, featuring the powerhouse Salena Godden and Yorkshire’s own Toria Garbutt. It’s an electric evening of performance that usually sells out fast!
- HAve A Go Activities:Perfect for the younger "knights-in-training" who want to test their own skills.
Make A Day Of It
The tournament is ticketed, however entry to the Royal Armouries Museum is free. After the adrenaline of the arena, you can head inside to explore five floors of world-class history, including the famous Hall of Steel.
Be sure to check out the "Full Tilt" exhibition, which explores the modern-day revival of jousting as a competitive sport. It’s a great way to see how the armor you just saw in action is actually made and maintained.
Plan Your Visit
- Tickets: Essential!:These shows are legendary and almost always sell out. Prices range from £5 for standing to £25 for the best balcony views.
- Booking Royal Armouries Jousting Tournament
- When: Good Friday (April 3rd) through to Easter Monday (April 6th).
- Where: Royal Armouries Museum, Leeds.
- Pro-Tip Arrive at least 20 minutes before the show starts—latecomers aren’t allowed in the arena for safety reasons (those horses need their space!).
Whether you’re a history enthusiast or just looking for a unique family day out, the International Jousting Tournament is the undisputed highlight of the Easter calendar in Leeds. Grab your flags, pick a team, and prepare to cheer until you’re hoarse!