There are many and varied ways of experiencing history. In Vikings of Middle England, members share their passion for history by recreating aspects of the Viking-Age; through traditional crafts, martial arts, experimental archaeology and performance. There is no other hobby or activity that offers so many options!

The primary goal of the group is to Educate and Entertain at events around the country. As with any voluntary organisation, there's a certain level of commitment necessary for this to happen, for safety and for the quality of the end product. This means engaging in various facets of the displays and attending weekly meetings where there is combat training and Living History workshops.

In the first year of membership, you'll look to put a basic set of kit together to wear at events. Viking-Age re-enactment is amongst the cheapest to start with the 'peasant-look' costing around £75-100 and including basic tunic and trousers, a cloak, a belt, a knife and shoes. The group lends kit to new members, and our in-house seamstress and blacksmith (amongst other craftsmen) offer top quality kit for far less than is commercially available. On the combatant side, the group provides a shield.

And then there's the event itself where the group tries to portray the lives of Viking-Age people for the enjoyment of the audience. Performances and displays punctuate a day of working on crafts and talking to the public.

But that's the business end. After the site is emptied of paying guests, the party starts and the extended family of Vikings of Middle England enjoys a break; eating together, playing silly games and having a beer or two, ready for the next day of activities.

To be a re-enactor is to share and protect our heritage, and at the end of the day fool around with a bunch of good mates. It's an eccentric, electric, entertaining and often absurd hobby - in one word - fun.

FAQ

How old do you have to be to join? Full Members must be over 18 years old. If you are 16, you may join with parental permission.

Can women fight? Absolutely; no activity carried out by VME is discriminated against on the grounds of Gender, Race or Disability. However, all members must do what they can to abide by the group rules and authenticity policies. Eg. A female combatant must portray a male.

Are the weapons real? Our weapons are steel replicas of original Viking-Age finds, but they have a blunt edge. Our members train every week in their use, and members must pass safety tests after a long absence if they wish to fight. Injuries do occur, but rarely - certainly they're no more frequent than a contact sport like Rugby!