A LIVE demonstration of the Japanese martial art, kobudo, is coming to the Cotswolds.

On Saturday, July 16, at Snowshill Manor, near Broadway, the tranquil sounds of cooing doves and the gentle footsteps of garden visitors will be replaced by the pounding of Japanese drums and the clashing of swords in an exciting demonstration of traditional kobudo.

The manor has an impressive collection of original Japanese armour collect by Charles Wade and there are a dozen suits currently on display.

On a study visit 19 years ago Quentin Ball was so inspired by the collection of rare samurai armour that he offered to bring his group of combat experts to practise and demonstrate the traditional art involving swords and sticks, live for the public.

“The group’s members set up several small battles - either one to one fights or in small groups - and accompanied by Taiko drummers, they make for quite a spectacle on the terrace below the front lawn of the Manor,” said Hayley Gaisford-Gotto, general manager at Snowshill.

“They wear clothing appropriate for their performance, rather than armour, and will even demonstrate how sharp their swords are by slicing through straw bundles.”

There will be four half-hour performances during the day and after each one the performers will stay to chat with visitors and let them take photos with them.

There is no additional charge for people to see the performance other than the entrance charge for Snowshill Manor.

For more information visit nationaltrust.org.uk/snowshill-manor-and-garden