VISITORS to Berkeley Castle will experience the sights and sounds of a popular 17th century sport on Sunday when the historic family home provides the perfect vantage point to watch deerhound racing on neighbouring fields. 

Starting at midday, dozens of deerhounds, accompanied by their owners dressed as lords, ladies, monks and other period characters from the 17th century, will race at the castle. 

Each race will see a deerhound duo chasing a motorised fur-covered lure, with the first dog to reach the post pronounced the winner.

Early arrivals will see the deerhound procession around the castle.

The castle is holding a Tudor festival over the half term week including medieval falconry displays.

Tudor documents will also be put on display including a warrant signed by Queen Mary and a letter from Elizabeth I.

For more information visit berkeley-castle.com/whatson