In the Court of King Richard it was common for Knights of the Order to amuse themselves and prove their worth in tournaments involving man-to-man combat between Knights from different regions. These contests often resulted in melees which were fought across open countryside.
Eager for a new and more profitable challenge, Sir Ludlow of Sherborne was inspired to offer a new challenge.
24 Knights from each region would be selected to fight a mock battle within a specially designed area measuring 100ft x 100ft. Restricting the fighting space would increase the challenge to the participants and present an entertaining spectacle. Knights could fight outside the area, but at least one member of each fighting unit had to remain within the space or the entire team would face defeat. When all knights of a unit were cleared from the Centre Court, either through injury or cowardice, the fight would end.
Ludlow's inspiration made the Battle of the King's Court a traditional favourite.
Later, chess boards were converted to symbolise King’s Court. Players young and old enjoyed mock battles which were inspired by the Knights of old.
Today, the tradition continues with this game of skill, action and drama.