A dungeoneer at the Castle Entrance (Bodiam Castle) used in Series 5 (1991).

Castle Entrance

By Keith McDonald

Knightmare's move to real-world locations and the introduction of Smirkenorff the Dragon provided the context for several castle entrances.


Knightmare's move to real-world locations introduced several castle entrances.

Series 5

Among the destinations of the dragon's early flights was a moated castle. Smirkenorff would land on an island in the centre of the moat.

A castle entrance, as seen in Series 5 of Knightmare (1991).
The Octagon and Moat at Bodiam Castle

From here, the Eye Shield follows the route to the gatehouse, where the team would collect clue objects before proceeding into the castle.

This sequence is based on the Octagon and Moat at Bodiam Castle in East Sussex.

A front view of Bodiam Castle, East Sussex.
Bodiam Castle

A fortress! Although I think it's seen better times.

Pickle

Series 7

Series 7 introduced a number of scenes from Spanish castles, which included some entranceways.

These included a facade of La Mota Castle, where a team is treated to Sidriss's latest magical mishap. She has turned Fidjit into a giant toad.

A castle entrance, as seen in Series 7 of Knightmare (1993).
Approaching the entrance to Simancas Castle

Another is Simancas Castle in Valladolid. Team 1 follow the walled approach towards a door, which Fidjit eventually unlocks.

This appears to follow a regional style, as the nearby Ampudia Castle has a similar entranceway.

You Might Also Like...

Stone Courtyards

Courtyard with staircase, shown frequently in Series 5 (1991).

The growth in the outdoor dungeon based on real castles and forts led to a significant number of stone courtyards, from Britain and overseas.

Children's TV on Trial (2007)

Courtroom trial watching knightmare

Knightmare appeared in the 1980s instalment of Children's TV on Trial, broadcast in May 2007 on BBC Four. The feature included interviews with Tim Child and Hugo Myatt.

Series 8: Overview

Majida and Treguard looking into pool, Series 8 Episode 1

What's new in Series 8 of Knightmare? A summary of the main differences.

See Also