A trip to the Medieval Tournament at Downhill castle

Stephen and  I are just back from a wonderful afternoon spent at a medieval tournament at  Downhill Castle demesne (about seven miles from us). It was warm, sunny and dry so loads of people came along.  There was something for everyone, from face painting , crown & shield making for weenies to displays of archery, jousting and sword fighting. Various medieval activities were shown and explained -brewing (with samples), coin making, carving of wood, horn, and antlers, blacksmith, apothecary etc etc. Very, very interesting stuff. There was also a band of minstrels playing harp, bagpipes, dulcimer, hurdy-gurdy and symphonia.

But best of all was the display of birds of prey by the Northern Ireland School of Falconry  -AMAZING! and guess who is going on a short course with them which culminates in actually flying a falcon ? MEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!! Well if I’m a really good girl that is!!! Wedding anniversary present from my beloved. I absolutely love birds of prey so was in my element and really had to tear myself away to see the other attractions. Steve took some great pics .

Growling tums were well catered for as well with a whole pig on a spit, crepes, homemade carrot/mango cake, strawberries, scones, candy floss, locally made (3milesaway) ice cream and other goodies, yum yum.

A lovely way to end a stressful week for me – feel totally chilled and can’t wait for August to get up close and personal with falcons, hawks and owls.  🙂