“I had such a fantastic weekend, definitely up there as one of the best HEMA events I’ve been to. Such a great atmosphere, great classes, fun tournament, lovely people. Huge huge thanks for all your hard work organising and I really can’t wait for next year.”
“This was my second By The Sword, and I’m already looking forward to my third. There’s something almost magical about bringing the women in our community together like this and a joy in meeting new friends and having an opportunity to play with old ones. I miss everyone already and it’s saddens me how long it’ll be till we next meet again.”
“Loved, loved, loved it!! Fran & Lizzie I cannot commend you both enough for your efforts and obvious love that goes into this event. I’ve made new friends, learnt some new stuff (I never had myself down as a bare knuckle boxer but I’m reconsidering now!) And to create an environment where we are so able to ask each other questions without fear is no mean feat. I couldn’t be more pleased to compete in this as my first tournament- thank you both 😊 xxx”
“A super welcoming, friendly, instructional event!! Fantastic for the total novice & experienced swordswoman alike, with the opportunity to try some new disciplines all as part of the weekend. I competed in my first tournament here as I knew the support would be totally amazing. Can’t recommend it enough 😁”
“This was a well thought out and executed event with a real atmosphere of camaraderie and generosity. I’ll be there next year.”
“A brilliant event run by exceptional women. There was something for everyone from complete novice to longtime veteran. The support system & warmth of staff made it an awesome weekend of swords & comradery. I salute you all! ”
“Relaxed event where you could try out lots of disciplines in a supportive, friendly environment. Would definitely recommend and go again 🙂”
“I made loads of friends, learned lots of stuff, and had a really great time in a super friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Can’t wait until next year!”
“Amazing event in an incredibly supportive environment. I get really anxious on social occasions but found the sympathetic, no-pressure environment helped me relax enough to get a lot out of the sessions. The organisation was top-notch with lots of welcoming touches and the food provided was great. The instructors were very enthusiastic, knowledgeable and approachable. An excellent weekend surrounded by amazing women – I can’t wait till next time!”
“Totally loved this event! Well organized, talented instructors and enjoyable structured classes but no pressure to participate! Everyone was friendly and approachable and I was made to feel totally at ease from the beginning. Will definitely be attending next year! Thank you to all that were involved. XX”
“Very friendly and inclusive event, I would definitely recommend and come back! A lot to learn from everyone!”
“Both HEMA beginners and experienced fencers had a lot to learn at this extremely friendly and inclusive event.”
“Amazing event full of very inspiring women! The atmosphere was so supportive and inclusive, and I learned loads of new things. It didn’t matter whether you were a HEMA veteran or a newbie, everyone was made to feel very welcome and encouraged to get involved as much as they wanted, learning at their own pace – and usually discovering they were capable of more than they originally thought! I’ll definitely be coming back again. 😊”
“Well organised, full of very supportive people and a lot of fun.”
“Wonderful event full of wonderful people. So much awesome crammed into one space. Yay! ”
“It was the best weekend I’ve had in ages – lots of variety, all the people there were lovely, it didn’t matter what you knew, what you didn’t, or how long you’d trained, it was just great fun.”
“The most ego-free, inclusive & welcoming HEMA event you could imagine. Great for any standard of experience or ability, plus added sports masseuse!”
“You probably won’t ever meet so many amazing, inspiring women in one room as you will at By The Sword. Don’t miss it!”
“Magical event… it’s like HEMA meets afternoon tea with friends.”
“Go for it… it fun, full of new and old friends and let’s you learn at your own pace with no presumptions and pressures you find elsewhere.”
“I would say if you find HEMA an odd subject due to been a woman, then come along and you can see what women can really do without feeling judged ”
By the Sword 