Hedingham Castle has announced a packed 2014 season full of knights in shining armour, entertainment and attractions.

The 900 year-old Norman keep stands in 160 acres of landscaped gardens and woodland so a wander around the grounds is sure to keep a family busy on a day out but a range of special events will be held from February to make a trip even more worthwhile.

The season kicks off with Snowdrop Sundays on February 9, 16 and March 2, showcasing at least 13 varieties of snowdrops covering the slopes of the motte and bailey.

The Lavenham Falconry team will be showing their birds of prey and Graeme the Medieval Archer will be in the Banqueting Hall with a selection of weapons.

The castle be taken over by the Medieval Siege Society on April 20 and 21, giving a snapshot of life in the medieval period with archery, birds of prey, a maypole, jesters plus a dragon’s egg hunt run by The Dragons of Wye-Ten.

May kicks off with the Knights of Destrier who are making their first visit to the castle for a jousting tournament on May 4 and 5.

A vintage fair will visit the castle on May 18, followed by more jousting with the Knights of Royal England who will be recreating the classic Tourney in front of the keep, with jousting and hand to hand combat plus a range of other entertainment.

Highlights for the rest of the year include a visit by The Globe, who are returning with a production of Much Ado About Nothing, The Pantaloons Theatre Company, who will present A History of Britain, classic car shows and a circus.

For more information about opening times and admission prices visit hedinghamcastle.co.uk or call 01787 460261.