Marking the 450th anniversary of Elizabeth I's visit, Warwick Castle's Midsummer Carnival kick-started its summer events calendar last Saturday.

Running until July 10, the event will allow guests to see a slice of the castle's rich history which saw the iconic queen visit at the invitation of Ambrose Dudley (the Earl of Warwick) in 1572.

And the carnival includes everything that you would expect of a Tudor-themed event.

The courtyard has been decorated with flags, bunting and streamers and hosts a staged re-enactment of the Queen's arrival at the castle.

Featuring the Bard, William Shakespeare, Elizabeth I's arrival is also greeted with minstrels and jesters before the Queen's Parade takes visitors down to the River Island.

Here audiences are treated to possibly the highlight of the day - the performance of A Midsummer Night's Dream.

The (much shorter) retelling of Shakespeare's comedy classic sees Elizabeth I watch as Oberon, Titania, Puck and Bottom all feature in a purpose-built jousting area.

The highlight of the day was the adaptation of A Midsummer Night's Dream (Image via Warwick Castle)

Actors are joined by the 'fairies of the forest' - which in this portrayal are horse riders who perform a series of spectacular tricks and stunts.

As well as one rider firing an bow and arrow on the move into an exploding balloon, chief amongst the stunts is a 'UK first' full-circle loop under a galloping horse.

Whilst the tricks were impressive in their own right, it should also be noted that when the horses were less cooperative than desired, the actors recovered well and still produced a performance that wowed the crowds.

Those who will have attended many events at the castle will not be disappointed as this show is certainly their best yet.

Also on the River Island is a 'royal school' where families can learn the skills to live like a royal and there will be games including juggling, poi, diabolo and plate spinning.

The interactive experience does not end there, with axe throwing, archery and knight school running across the day.

And for those who get to the castle early enough will be treated to the raising of the portcullis by the Landsknecht Garrison.

The carnival is celebrating the 450th anniversary of Queen Elizabeth I's visit to the castle (Image via Warwick Castle)

But visitors who arrive later in the day will not miss out on seeing the fighting knights, with entertaining performances held on the east front throughout.

Mixing humour, action and even some education, the knights of Warwick certainly engaged audience members both young and old - and even offered more photo opportunities afterwards!

And of course the family fun does not end there, with the Warwick Bowman, Horrible Histories Maze, history tours, Zog Live Show and live bird show 'The Falconer's Quest' also on offer.

I would recommend getting to the castle early to make sure you can fit everything in during your visit!

Midsummer Carnival runs from 11 June to 10 July, 2022.

Day tickets from £29 (when booked in advanced).

The Midsummer Carnival is definitely worth a visit, even for seasoned Warwick Castle customers (Image via Warwick Castle)