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About
The Academy of Historical Fencing, located in Bristol, is the largest historical fencing school in the South West region of the United Kingdom. Founded in 2006 by expert instructors Michael Thomas and Nick Thomas, this school has become one of the longest-standing historical fencing schools in the entire country.
The Academy of Historical Fencing excels in teaching the art of historical swordsmanship. With classes available in Bristol, Caerwent, and Chepstow, individuals have the opportunity to learn armed and unarmed combat in various traditions, including English, German, and Italian. Students are provided with comprehensive instruction in the use of longswords, sword & buckler, side-sword, rapier, and military sabre.
The instructors at the Academy of Historical Fencing are highly skilled and experienced, guaranteeing that students receive top-quality training. Both synthetic and steel weapons are utilised during classes, ensuring that students develop a well-rounded understanding of historical combat techniques. To prioritise safety, suitable armour is always worn during sparring sessions.
Aside from their physical training, students also benefit from the resources and events provided by the Academy of Historical Fencing. The school hosts special events, such as workshops and seminars, led by renowned experts in the field. Additionally, a comprehensive range of resources, including books, articles, and videos, are available to students, allowing them to further expand their knowledge outside regular classes.
For those interested in keeping up with the Academy of Historical Fencing, various social media platforms are available. The school maintains an active presence on Facebook, with both a public page and a membership group. Additionally, they have a YouTube channel and an Instagram account where students can find additional content and updates.
Whether you are a beginner curious about historical swordsmanship or an experienced fencer looking to refine your skills, the Academy of Historical Fencing provides a valuable learning environment. With passionate instructors, a wide range of training options, and a supportive community, this school offers a unique and enriching experience for all interested in the art of historical fencing.
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Frequently Asked Questions
We have thriving classes in Bristol, Caerwent and Chepstow, with training delivered through our historical fencing school.
Our training includes longswords, sword & buckler, side-sword, rapiers, military sabres, spears, halberds, greatswords and more, using a structured syllabus for complete beginners through to experienced martial artists.
We place safety first, with suitable armour always worn for contact drills and sparring, and we work primarily with steel while using high quality synthetic kit where appropriate.