Bolsover Legendary Joust 2023

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uYI5LIjSbkwA bit of a diversion today, but still sort of related to gaming and miniatures, if you think about it as inspiration.

This weekend saw the annual Legendary Joust at Bolsover Castle in Derbyshire, which we always try to attend.  A great day out but also, in one respect, a victim of its own success - the crowds are getting so big it is increasingly difficult to actually see (let alone photograph) the jousting.  Not helped by families who decide to bring folding chairs, extensive picnics, and other paraphernalia that gets in everyone else's way.

Anyway, here are the shots I got, in case they are inspiring for anyone out there painting (or planning to paint) any knights.  If these are of interest to anyone, let me know in the comments and I will do a few posts of other photos from previous years of different armours and equipment.

 

 

Particularly noteworthy was "The Wild Man", who was jousting in a highly decorated bridgandine, rather than a breastplate.  It looked fantastic!

For more on why, there is an excellent video by Zac Evans https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uYI5LIjSbkw

Little John and other stuff

Update time!  A few more Nick Lund Dwarves, a late 80’s Citadel Man at Arms, and almost finished Hathersage’s most famous deceased resident!

Great little model.  Perry sculpt I think.

Seven Dwarfs who probably don’t whistle while they work or live in a cottage in the woods. Former Grenadier Models by Nick Lund.

And finally, joining Robin Hood and Friar Tuck, Little John (and his big stick).  Local Derbyshire legend has it that Little John is buried in the Churchyard in nearby Hathersage

Little John is from Footsore Miniatures new 'Baron's War' range. Nice model overall, but he does seem a little slim in the waist, definitely child-bearing hips (or maybe he has his purse hidden under there)!

 

And here's his (alleged) grave in Hathersage. Hathersage is well worth a visit if you find yourself in the Peak District.  It can be a little busy, but it's well placed for some lovely walks.