More About The Harlech Medieval Society

The Harlech Medieval Society was formed in 1984 by historical enthusiasts living in and around the village of Harlech, North Wales. The aims of the Society were to promote tourism in the local area and to extend the knowledge and appreciation of local history and heritage in both residents and visitors.

After working in Harlech Castle and other monuments in the care of Cadw (the Welsh Heritage Agency), the Society's members realised that their brand of living history and realistic combat could appeal to a much wider audience; consequently the Society has been seen at a much greater range of castles, monuments and events over the last few years.

Our members are drawn from much of England and Wales, and the Society's contacts do not end there! We have active contacts with living history groups in Ireland and are establishing exchanges with the Europe and the USA. Nevertheless, the Society's aims remain largely unchanged, to bring an appreciation of life in the Early Middle Ages to a larger audience by entertainment and information. Our success has been such that we are regularly booked for events at English Heritage, Cadw and National Trust properties.

The Society takes an active part in the wider re-enactment world with members being on the Executive Committee of the National Association of Re-enactment Societies. The Society is a founder member of the Early Medieval Alliance, a group which now incorporates more than 20 societies across Britain.

The weapons used are facsimiles of those of the period although technology has made their production easier and small changes have been made to reduce their lethality. However they remain true fighting tools and unless handled with care, skill and respect, they will seriously injure opponents. Men and women who wish to fight are thoroughly trained in the main weapons of the foot soldier and must prove their competence to the Chief Knight and his Serjeant at Arms before being permitted to join the fury of battle.

Other aspects of Medieval life are also portrayed by Society members at times, cooks an armourer and the resident witch can be seen either plying their trade or hawking their wares. The Society's camp can usually be located by the collection of siege tents within the site's grounds, These tents are to Society members what a telephone box is to Superman although they are generally exited more sedately!!

If you like what you see on these pages, you are bound to enjoy the real thing!. Check the list of the Engagements and come and meet us. We won't 'cleave thy pate in twain' - at least, not until we know you. - The kids will have a great time, having a go at archery or possibly beating up a knight.