Bravado, swordsmanship and performance will all be combined as the 'Art of the Duel' returns to Blenheim Palace.

Throughout weekends in August, experienced and talented stage-fighting actors will dazzle visitors with their re-enactment of classical two-person combat.

Duelling's codes, traditions and gory details are all covered in the display, which is included in a Palace, Park and Gardens ticket.

The series of performances is particularly poignant this year with Blenheim Palace celebrating the 300th anniversary of the death of the 1st Duke of the Marlborough.

There will be a particular focus on the young John Churchill's 1671 duel with Sir John Fenwick with the action-packed displays exploring the art and awfulness of duelling.

Between the 17th and early 19th centuries, duelling was a common way of settling disputes between members of the aristocracy.

One of England's most famous duels came after the 1st Duke's dismissal as general of British Forces in 1712.

James Hamilton, the 4th Duke of Hamilton, fought Charles Mohun, the 4th Baron Mohun of Okehampton and both men were killed.

The performances will take place in the Great Court at 11:30am, 12:30pm, 1:30pm, 2:30pm and 3:30pm.

• For more information and to book tickets online visit blenheimpalace.com

Issued on behalf of Blenheim Palace. For more information please contact Ellen Gray at EGray@blenheimpalace.com or Ollie Young at ollie@flamingo-marketing.co.uk .

About Blenheim Palace

Home to the Dukes of Marlborough since 1705, Blenheim Palace was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. 

Steeped in history, the magnificent Palace is surrounded with over 2,000 acres of 'Capability' Brown parkland and beautiful Formal Gardens.  Tours, exhibitions and events showcase the splendour of 'Britain's Greatest Palace' and deliver an unforgettable day out for all ages.

Today it houses one of the most important and extensive collections in Europe, which includes portraits, furniture, sculpture and tapestries.

Blenheim Palace is also the birthplace of one of Britain's most famous leaders, Sir Winston Churchill, and it was his father who described the vista on entering the Estate from the village of Woodstock as the 'finest view in England'.