THE MEDIEVAL past will once again be brought to life this weekend in the meadow beneath Berkeley Castle.

The Berkeley Skirmish, which takes place on Saturday and Sunday, returns for its second year for visitors to experience the colour, spectacle, noise and smells of medieval life.

From the brightly coloured tents of the 100 historical travelling merchants, to the city of living history tents offering an insight into the life of the medieval army and their families, visitors are invited to make the most of this opportunity to live in the past.

The "Artisans' Court" is a new attraction and is an area dedicated to demonstrating how all kinds of different items were made in medieval times.

For younger visitors there is the "Kiddies' Kingdom", which aims to entertain youngsters with a variety of traditional games.

Elsewhere, full size catapults will be in action, as well as jousting, mounted skill-at-arms, falconry, firepower through the ages and sword displays.

At the end of each day spectators can bear witness to the power of a full-bloodied battle between two medieval armies in the main arena, all viewed over by his Royal Highness King Henry VIII who can be found within the castle itself as he prepares for his accession to the throne.

The Skirmish opens at 10.30am, closing at 5pm on both days.

Prices are: Adults: £12, Under 14s: £7, Under fives: Free of charge. A family ticket is £32 with free entry to the castle.