Visitors to Nottingham Castle travelled back in time at the weekend to the world of the city's legendary hero, Robin Hood. MARCUS BOOCOCK reports

THE grounds of Nottingham Castle were transformed into a medieval village over the weekend for the Robin Hood Pageant.

King Richard I sat in his royal camp, minstrels meandered through the grounds and Robin Hood himself was there to take part in jousting tournaments and greet his fans.

Several stalls which would have been commonplace 900 years ago were set up, including candle-making, displays of old weapons and shields, and a medieval alehouse – which was selling mead.

And visitors had the chance to try their hand at turning lead into gold at an alchemist's laboratory.

Jason Wright took his son Harry, eight, to see the festivities.

"It is good fun," said Mr Wright, from Gedling. "It is great for the kids to see everyone in costume like this. The entertainment on the main green is especially good."

Children were kept amused by displays of traditional skills including falconry, wood carving and table weaving.

They were able to have a go at archery and were also encouraged to take part in a "medieval sports day" with team captains Robin Hood and Maid Marian.

Harry said: "It's really good. I am glad that I came."

Lee and Jill Cunnison, from West Bridgford, brought their children, Mia, eight, and Finlay, four.

"We had a really good time," said Mr Cunnison. "It is really entertaining and the best bit is the children enjoy it. They even got to meet King Richard."

Finlay said: "My favourite bit was seeing the falcon displays."

As well as the jousting, there were other events on the green, including a jester playing with fire and the Dogs of War re-enactment group.

On stage there was the world's first showing of Mark Mark Theatre Productions' new Robin Hood show.

Andrew and Hayley Crisp visited with their children, six-year-old Lucy and three-year-old Charlie.

"The children love coming to events like this and seeing all the costumes and acts," said Mr Crisp.

"It is very historical. It is really good how they have made it look so effective."

Alan Baker, 26, said: "I have been to quite a few of these events and have been to the Nottingham one for the last few years.

"Everyone always has a good time. Even when the weather isn't great, we enjoy ourselves."

Oliver Johnstone, 20, said: "I have been before and it is always an entertaining event and it's good to see how everyone dresses up."

Alan Clark, 43, from The Meadows, was there for the first time.

"I heard about this and thought I would give it a try," he said.

"It has been really good fun and is good for the kids especially. I like how they have the chance to actually get involved.

"It helps them realise what life was like hundreds of years ago."

marcus.boocock@nottinghameveningpost.co.uk