Medieval Re-Enactor Critically Injured After Sword Pierces Visor During Bodiam Castle Mock Battle

The 37-year-old Horsham man (not pictured) was clad in fully body armor when a sword pierced his visor.

A 37-year-old medieval re-enactor is in critical condition after a sword pierced his visor during a staged battle at Bodiam Castle in East Sussex, in what authorities have described as a freak accident.

The incident occurred Sunday afternoon during a live historical demonstration attended by a large crowd, including families and children. According to Sussex Police, the man from Horsham was fully clad in body armor when his opponent’s sword struck his face through the metal visor, causing a severe head injury.

The man, who was taking part in a medieval reenactment, was rushed to hospital after suffering a horrendous sword injury at Bodiam Castle in East Sussex (Those involved in the reenactment are not pictured)

Emergency services responded swiftly, and the injured man was transported to a nearby hospital, where he remains in critical condition. Sussex Police confirmed that they are treating the event as an accident and are working closely with the re-enactment organizers.

“We are offering support to his family during this difficult time,” said Detective Inspector Barry Chandler. “His opponent, a 36-year-old man also from Horsham, and the event organizers are assisting with our ongoing inquiries.”

The moated castle was built in 1385 by Sir Edward Dalyngrigge, a former knight of Edward II

Witnesses described the event as a thrilling mock battle that quickly turned disturbing. Several spectators, including young children, were left in shock as the choreographed display took a tragic turn.

“It had been a really exciting fight reenactment, and then suddenly it went catastrophically wrong,” said one attendee. “It was clear the man was very seriously injured, and some children were in tears. It was quite upsetting for everyone who was there.”

The historical event attracted dozens of spectators, including children, who were left shaken

Bodiam Castle, a 14th-century moated fortress operated by the National Trust, is a popular heritage site known for its medieval-themed events and educational reenactments. The castle was originally built by a former knight during the Hundred Years’ War and regularly hosts historical displays attracting large crowds.

Authorities are appealing to anyone who witnessed the incident or captured footage to come forward.

“We know the re-enactment had drawn a large crowd, and we understand this was distressing for many,” Chandler added. “We urge anyone with photographs or videos of the incident to contact us so we can better understand exactly what happened.”