If you want to come and try historical fencing we have a very popular Ladies class on monday nights from 6pm to 7pm
Our core mixed classes run 7pm to 9pm on Mondays and Thursdays. This is a longsword practice unless we have a mini workshop.
We offer weekend workshops and seminars covering the weapons we don’t get to in normal class and also get guest experts
HEMA (Historical European Martial Arts) is a collective set of documents and practices which outline martial arts techniques used in Europe from the Middle Ages. There are manuscripts from Germany, Italy, Spain, England, and Portugal.
There are a large number of different manuscripts (systems) people can follow. HEMA offers something for everyone in that there are research opportunities, studying and trying to decipher the techniques, the application of those techniques in a training situation – normally paired, as well as a codified method of practicing in a free play structure (sport, point scoring).
While these can look very different, we do welcome anyone who wishes to study at which ever level suits them.
The German system we follow has 3 parts – unarmoured (Blossfechten), armoured (Harnischfechten), and armoured mounted fighting(Rossfechten).
For us, we focus on the unarmoured system as a self defence for the medieval man or woman on the street. As we look at the early part of the tradition this is more combat focused and not sport focussed. Clothing has very little defensive padding – Some drills will require face mask and protective gloves. Free sparring on the occasions we offer it, will require full protective gear.
HEMA has something for everyone. It is a great way to stay active, improve flexibility, get fitter, boost confidence, work on your cognitive function as well as reduce stress.
We have an open door policy for beginners, which means you can simply let us know when you want to come and you can attend.
We train Mondays and Thursdays 7pm to 9pm in Canterbury. We have a Ladies only class on Mondays from 6pm to 7pm and a pole weapons class on Thursday from 6pm to 7pm. Stay in touch with the facebook page as there will be seminars and workshops added there.
Kent’s ancient streets whisper stories from the Middle Ages at every turn. From the bustling pilgrim trails of Canterbury to the peaceful market squares of Faversham and the well-preserved quays of Sandwich, history is not just preserved here—it’s alive. Whether you wander ancient halls, stay in centuries-old inns, or even learn to wield a sword,…
In an age of digital overload and modern combat sports, training in historical martial arts might seem like a niche pursuit. But beneath the surface of rusty swords and dusty manuscripts lies a dynamic, intellectually rich, and physically rewarding discipline. Whether you’re drawn by history, fitness, or personal development, here’s why historical martial arts (also…