What is the commitment level for members?

• Members are encouraged to attend regular training sessions and participate in events throughout the year. The level of involvement can vary based on your availability and interests.​

Do I need previous experience?

• No prior experience is necessary! We welcome newcomers and provide training to help you develop your skills, whether in combat, archery, or living history.​

How often do you meet?

• We meet every other Sunday for knights and archery training from 10-12. The Masters of Sword and Ring, and the Archery Captain will expect you to be ready to begin training at 10am sharp.​

Do you have an age limit on joining?

• Families with children are welcome to join us in camp and living history. However, there is a minimum age of 16 with parental permission, and 18 as standard for archery and combat due to health and safety concerns.​

What if I have a disability?

• We always aim to accommodate all levels of physical ability. Please get in touch with us to discuss.​

• Absolutely! We encourage members to share their skills and interests. Whether it’s crafting, cooking, or storytelling, your unique talents can enrich our group. Check out our Vacancies page for more information on current roles we would love to fill.​

I wear glasses, can I still fight?

• Yes! There is significant evidence that glasses were worn during the medieval period. Traders even sell medieval style glasses for reenactors, and many others wear contact lenses. If you prefer wearing your glasses, please feel free to do so! Just check with the Master of Sword regarding compatibility with combat and helmets etc. ​

What do I need for my first training session?

• You don't need to show up in full plate armour for your first session! Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely, suitable footwear and bring plenty of water! After your first session, the Master of Sword can discuss your own kit and weapons options moving forward.​

What is "Living History"?

• Living history is the re-enactment of medieval life within camp. We recreate activities that would have occurred in medieval life using historical tools, activities and dress to educate and engage the public with the everyday life of the past.​

What is a "Battle" in Re-enactment?

• A restaging on a historical battle with the aim of retelling the story as it happened.​

Do you fight with real swords?

• We use specially made weaponry designed for re-enactment events. These weapons are not sharp, but they are made of metal, so we observe strict safety measures during handling them and combat.

Can women fight?

• Absolutely! We encourage all genders to participate in whatever roles they choose within the group. There may however be a requirement to wear male-presenting clothing for battle; please speak to the Master of Sword regarding this during your session.​

Do I have to fight?

• No! Participation in battles and demonstrations is entirely voluntary. If you would prefer focus soley on living history, we definitely have a space for you!​

Do I have to participate in EVERY event?

• Not at all! You can participate in as many or as few events as you wish. You will however need to complete competency requirements from the Master of Sword/Archery Captain in training before being allowed on the battlefield at events.​

Why do you do re-enactment? What do you enjoy?

• Our reenactors have diverse reasons for participating, from honing medieval skills like archery to enjoying the chance to dress in beautiful costumes or shiny armor. Many simply relish the opportunity to engage in friendly swordplay! We are a community that enjoys spending time together and sharing our passions.​

Will I fit in?

• We are a friendly and welcoming group, who will help take care and guide you through your first few sessions and events until you find your feet. Many of us have formed lasting friendships in the College, and we believe you will too!​

Do I need to bring food?

• Depending on the event, our resident chef may provide cooked meals and breakfast for those who wish to participate. A small fee will be expected to cover ingredients for these meals, and this is purely at the chefs discretion. Generally, we recommend bringing your own food, however we do have cooking equipment available for your use.​

Where do I sleep?

• Most weekend events offer camping grounds for re-enactors. You can bring a plastic tent and camp within the "plastics" area, or set up a medieval-style tent within our living history camp (please discuss with the Living History leads). If you don't have camping equipment but want to join, you can sleep in the group tent, though please note that other members may be using the same tent for sleeping, and we will use the tent for storage/changing etc during the day. ​

• You can also book hotels or local BnBs, which many members choose to do. If the event is local, you can drive home in the evening and return the next day prior to public hours.

Where do I change on camp?

• We have a group tent that you can change in during events, however please be aware that others may be using the tent to change/store their possessions/rest/sleep.​

Where do you train?

• We train at Black Cat Archery. The address can be found in the "Contact Us" section. The venue has ample parking, as well as toilets and an indoor range.​