Arrows & Iron: Medieval Skills in Action

Friday 21 August 2026 | 10am–4pm

Step into the courtyard of King John’s Castle this National Heritage Week and experience medieval craftsmanship brought to life.

As part of this year’s National Heritage Week theme, ‘Heritage at Risk’, Arrows & Iron celebrates traditional skills and knowledge that have been passed down through generations.

Throughout the day, Guild Master Bowyer Jack Pinson will demonstrate the traditional craft of longbow making, showing how a historical bow is shaped using hand tools and traditional techniques.

At the forge, medieval blacksmith Tony Vincent will demonstrate the ancient craft of blacksmithing, creating objects inspired by the medieval world and giving visitors an insight into the skill and precision behind the craft.

From 11am–3pm, the Archers of Limerick will host the Great Brown Bear Archery Challenge, where adults and children can try their hand at traditional archery using beginner-friendly arrows. Take aim at a six-foot 3D brown bear target and a traditional archery target.

With blacksmithing, bow-making and traditional archery all rooted in specialist knowledge, Arrows & Iron highlights the importance of keeping these skills alive and sharing them with future generations.

The event is included with general admission to King John’s Castle.

10% Off Admission

To celebrate National Heritage Week, we’re offering 10% off admission on Friday 21 August.

Discount is automatically applied at checkout.

Valid for bookings for Friday 21 August 2026 only.