ARCHERY ACADEMY
NOCK, DRAW, LOOSE
For those who want to immerse themselves in the skills of an archer, this half-hour session will give you an intensive grounding in medieval archery. From the basics of target shooting, to instinctive aiming and medieval hunting techniques, we will cover it all. Before you know it we’ll have you ready to join your own merry band, all set to rob from the rich and give to the poor. The Session is suitable for anyone although we do recommend a minimum age of 12.
KNIGHT SCHOOL
MASTER THE SWORD
Discover the glory of battle as you learn the basics of handling a sword and buckler in combat. The skills taught in this half-hour session are authentic to the mid-1400s and yes, it is a school, so be prepared to do some work! We suggest a minimum age of 7 years old for pre-booking. We will take younger children provided they have an adult with them, but it would be best to come and see what’s involved first. There is no upper age limit, we firmly believe that adults should get a chance to play as well. It’s not just for boys either.
TABLET WEAVING
LOOM & CARDS
Try your hand at tablet weaving (One of the oldest and simplest weaving techniques) and watch as, with a few turns of the cards, a wonderful pattern appears. With the looms set up and ready to go this is a great activity for adults and children alike (7 and over with parental supervision), and you get to keep what you weave.
ILLUMINATION
MONSTROUS MARGINALIA
Jump into the weird world of Medieval Illumination! Choose from pre-drawn bloodthirsty bunnies, gruesome grotesques, naught nuns and monsterous marginalia, and spend a relaxing hour painting your own medieval masterpiece. All materials supplied, no artistic skills necessary. Just bring a steady hand and an open mind. 12 years and over.
WEDDINGS
MEDIEVAL CEREMONY
Experience a truly ancient and nature-based ceremony. We are pleased to offer everything from Medieval Handfasting to full bespoke weddings taking place in the Faerie Woodland at Loxwood Joust.
BLACKSMITH
FORGE STEEL
Have a banging time this summer with our one-hour blacksmith workshops giving you the chance to learn new skills by forging your own medieval creation in steel. Over 16s only.
CHAINMAIL
CRAFT ARMOUR
Craft yourself some new bling in a metalworking workshop with historical Truro-based metalsmith Anna Rennie. Learn how to create the classic 4-in-1 steel chainmail worn by the knights of the realm, and make your own chainmail bracelet using traditional methods. 16 years and over only.
COPPER BOWL
HAMMER & PUNCH
Make your own functional bowl in copper using traditional techniques by hand and personalise your creation with your name using letter punches. Some hand strength required for hammering! 16 years and over only.
COPPER BANGLE
BUCKLE & EMBELLISH
Using traditional silversmithing techniques, learn how to make a copper cuff bangle and personalise with words or patterns. Hand strength and dexterity is essential. All tools and materials provided in this hour-long workshop. 16 years and over only.
SCRIBE SCHOOL
SCRIBE LIKE ROYALTY
Learn basic pen skills, practice the alphabet and have a go at writing your name in a Gothic style with a quill. All materials are provided and your quill is yours to keep, along with a guide to Gothic writing. Scribe scholars also get a discount on calligraphy supplies from the stall. Please be aware that using dip pens and ink can be messy. Suitable for older children and adults. Younger children are welcome but may not find it easy.