Official newsletter of the Principality of Insulae Draconis
AS LIX, Volume 32, Issue 12, Nov/Dec 2024
Table of contents
Cover artwork: The Holly Monarch. Photo by Princess Agnes.
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The season of contemplation is upon us. Long dark nights, warm fires and strong ale lead to a person reflecting upon the world and their place within it.
We in our society pride ourselves on being welcoming, open and progressive. We celebrate diversity, reward effort and celebrate those who enrich our lives through their service.
But as the contemporay saying goes. A fall can soon follow excesive pride or hubris. As Princes we are asking ourselves, are we truly welcoming?
So our challenge to the populace is. If a pair of newcomers turned up to your event or practice and wanted to partake in an activity that you already carry out in the Barony/shire/hamlet, could they?
If not we would like you to consider the logistics of making such a thing possible. For by planting such seeds your gardens will grow and our principality will shine.
Referring back to our previous missive, this cannot rest on a single persons back. A group and a community are always more successful the better they collaborate.
Yours in Service
Alexander & Agnes
Principes Insulae Draconis
Court Reports
This is a court report for Champions of Lough Devnaree XVII. Champions
of Lough Devnaree XVII was organised by Dun in Mara.
This court report is for court on 28 Sep 2024, it’s identified as
Saturday Evening Court.
Court report filed by: Court Herald, Sela de la Rosa
Court was opened and their highness welcomed travellers from across
the isles and beyond.
Those officers of the principality present were invited to swear
fealty to the coronet.
Alice de la Wode was called forward, and presented with a backlog
scroll previously awarded.
The outgoing Champions of Lough Devnaree announced the results of
their tournaments and named their successors.
Baroness Melisende had business before the court.
Their highness greeted those for whom this was their first court.
Noble Ingemar was called into court and made a member of the Order of Ffraid.
The seneschals of Dun in Mara and Eplaheimr were invited to speak of
the recent accomplishments and future ambitions of their groups.
Lady Aoife was called forward and presented with a tiara by their highness.
Sadhbh of Dun in Mara was called forward, awarded arms, and made a
noble of the court.
Their highness gave some closing words and court was closed.
Prize Play announcement
Unto the Academy of Defence of the Kingdom of Drachenwald, our Sovereign Rulers
of the same, and all nobles and attendants of their court, do I Baron Nicholas
de Estleche dictus le Tardif, Prefect of the said Academy, Companian of the
Silver Guard and the Fox &c, send greetings.
I hereby make known my intent to sponsor Hlǣfdige Rebeeca Stormwiga of Flinthǣþ,
Holegncwēn Gēolġebēorscipes, Provost of the Academy to play her prize for the
rank of Prefect of the Acedemy at St.Bede’s Fair to be held at Bourn in the
county of Flinthǣþ on the final weekend of May next.
May those who would stand as examiner make themselves known unto. Let all who
would test her as she holds the field assemble at the appointed place and at the
appointed time. Let all who would witness her skill and prowess gather likewise.
Let those who would face her pray for a clear sky, for should the storm
accompany her, Rebecca shall lay low those who stand against her as wheat in the
field, and wrest the trees from the soil so that nothing shall stand above her.
Writ this eleventh day of December anno scoietatis 59 at Utbech
In service,
Nicholas de Estleche
Archery Lesson 3: Check Arrow Length for safety
By Pól ó Briain
Not everyone is built in the same way. Some people have longer arms, different size torsos and longer jaw lines. Because of this, different people have different draw lengths which in turn means that they need different lengths of arrows. When you are starting in archery the first thing to worry about in reference to arrow length is to ensure that the arrows are not too short. Arrows being too long you can live with. Arrows being too short can spell disaster. When beginners are at full draw you want at least an extra 2 inches of arrow length beyond the front of the bow for safety.
To get a quick check to make sure the arrows you are planning on shooting are not too short, fully stretch out both of your arms out in front of you and place the palms of your hands together with fingertips fully extended. Measure the arrow length against the distance from your chest to 2 inches beyond your fingertips and that should be your starting MINIMUM arrow length.
Most target archery marshals will have beginner archers shooting full length arrows (normally 32 inches long) which have several advantages.
As they are full length arrows, you don’t normally have to worry about them being too short (be warned, there are some people with really long arms that this will not work for and people that may try to over draw the bow).
Beginners should be shooting short distances so the excess arrow length should have little to no effect on performance.
Because most beginners should also be using the pile of the arrow (arrowhead) to aim with, using a longer arrow means the archer is more likely to shoot lower. This means you have less arrows shooting over the target.
When the piles break off the arrows, you can remove ½ an inch or so and make another set of 30-inch arrows giving them a second life.
Please note, care should always be taken not to over draw the bow.
How to measure your arrow length (for advanced archers)
To get a more actuate arrow length you can measure it one of two ways. Both ways need a second person at hand to help.
The first way is to nock an old arrow when standing on the shooting line and aim down range and draw the string back to your normal anchoring point. With a marker, a second person makes a vertical line on the arrow where it meets the front of the bow. You then measure the length between the inside of the arrow’s nock to that mark and that is your arrow length.
The second way is done in much the same way as the first except you use a measuring arrow. This is an arrow that has the length in inches marked up the cock feather side of the arrow already. When you draw the arrow back the second person has only to read the length off the arrow. No need for a measuring tape. A measuring arrow should be marked 5 inches from the inside of the nock to the pile.
In both above cases you should never shoot the arrow. Simply ‘come down’.
Why should I use arrows the same as my draw length (or rather my draw length plus 2 inches for extra safety)? There are 2 reasons:
The shorter arrows are, the less they weigh. This has the benefit of being able to send arrows more distance with the same poundage bow.
It also means if you use the pile (arrowhead) for aim, you have to correct less then shooting longer distances.
Events
These are the upcoming events in Insulae Draconis.
To submit an event for inclusion, use the form on the Drachenwald website,
https://drachenwald.sca.org/events/calendar-add/.
You don't need to provide all information right away; a minimal entry is enough at first.
The day after you submit an event, you'll receive an email with a link to edit your entry.
Changes will be reflected on the Principality website within a few minutes, and in editions
of the Baelfyr that are published before the event takes place. (If you're unable to find that
link, contact webminister@drachenwald.sca.org
for help.)
To keep entries consistent between the calendars, The Baelfyr no longer accepts event submissions
by email.
At last, the long promised parliament is upon us. On Saturday 24th of January at 18h, we will meet in the clouds to discuss certain topics. This list is not definitive and if you want to add another order of business, please contact us. The exact meeting joining details will be advertised widely some days before the 24th. The preliminary subjects are:
- Organising Coronet tournaments earlier than the pre-planned rotation of the hosting responsibility by the different groups in our Principality
- Some law changes
- Discussion about alternative Coronet tournament selection methods.
Reservation: If you have not already done so, please submit your membership info in order to be covered by insurance for this event: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdQVoke8fRAYESvkkqZC_9-YvMTRV6ZG85_ykcLOji5EyGJfA/viewform
Cost: Members £10 - Non Members £13 - First Time Event FREE
Payment: Payments can be made on site Payments can be made online. Please contact exch.pontalarch@gmail.com for details.
January Convocation in Harpelstane
Hosted by Harpelstane
Takes place: Saturday, 31 January 2026
Activities: A&S, Feast or Potluck
Monthly convocation meeting - more details and links to people to contact can be found on the Shire of Harpelstane facebook page, where each monthly convocation is set up as an event. The convocations are in Kirkcaldy, Fife (Scotland). We do a range of craft, cooking and fighting activities, weather and interest depending, so if you have a particular craft or activity that you are interested in doing or discussing, you can contact us for a special day! Pickups from the train or bus station available on request, basic lunch will be available, contributions welcome.
Site address: Kirkcaldy, Fife
Event steward: Elen Benet
Reservation: Contact Helen Lever on facebook/messenger to advise if you have dietary requirements, or a request for the day, otherwise please see the facebook event to indicate attendance!
Activities: A&S, Feast or Potluck, Royalty present
February hangs heavy in many a heart The sun still hides behind rain swollen clouds and yet it fights each day to shine a bit longer over the winter-worn multitudes
Let us fight that winter melancholy together Join us in celebrating the coming of light at our one-day revel, Imbolc As in past times people celebrated the Chailleach of winter giving sway to Brigid, so shall we, with the making of candles, butter, and planting seeds.
For the feast, we put a call to all who would join us, and hope ye answer. We would love to highlight the foods that remained in February, those that were stored and preserved in all manners whether it be drying, curing, salting or other methods of preservation. We can share what we have preserved from now until the event, eat together and share our experiences. We will update the calendar when further details are secured, but we want to light the spark of creativity and give time for the preserving of food stuffs. Any questions can be directed to the event stewards, Gwerful an Filí and Mallymkun Rauði.
Site address: Jim Kirwan Scout Hall Community center in Clara, County Offaly
Activities: Heavy Fighting, Fencing, Archery, A&S, Feast or Potluck
Please join us for Flintmoot in Flintheath! An afternoon of A&S projects ongoing in the Hall, along with bardic and cooking. Outside, enjoy rapier, rattan, and archery practice.
Saturday 14 February 2026 from 12 noon to six o’clock (at 4pm, we’ll sit down for a discussion about Flintheath business and planning). Please remember outside shoes are not allowed in the Hall. There will be pot-luck munchies. If you would like to bring along some food to share, that would be great.
Location, Waterbeach Tillage Hall, CB25 9NJ
If you have not done so already, please submit your membership info in order to be covered by insurance for this event: https://tinyurl.com/FlintheathMemberStatus
Site address: Waterbeach Tillage Hall, CB25 9NJ
Event steward: Eularia Trewe
Reservation: As per our insurers, membership status is required to attend. If you have not done so already, please submit your membership info by Tuesday, 10 February at 6pm in order to be covered by insurance: https://tinyurl.com/FlintheathMemberStatus
Cost: Attendance is free - donations appreciated.
Site information: Tillage Hall is a spacious and light community building overlooking the beautiful recreation grounds in Waterbeach. Inside There is a brand new kitchen (fitted in Spring 2021) with a large central island and deep serving hatch, opening out onto the hall and providing plenty of worktop space. The kitchen is well equipped with a fridge, oven and microwave with plenty of crockery available for teas and coffees.
There are 9 tables and approximately 60 chairs available for your use stored in a cupboard off the main hall. The hall floor area measures 9.4 x 9.4 meters and has a high vaulted ceiling with velux roof windows. There are three toilets available, including disabled and baby change. Free Wifi available. Tillage Hall has a disabled toilet and entrance and fire exit doors suitable for wheelchair users. Parking The car park is shared with the recreation ground and can get busy on football fixture days (typically Saturday mornings).
Public transit Walking distance from the Waterbeach train station Nearest bus stop PR5 Park & Ride at Recreation Ground
Scribal event, beginning with a beginner’s class taught by Maredudd athro, principality signet; there may be other classes. Afternoon in a well-lit hall for drawing and painting. Please bring own equipment if you own it; some supplies will be available. Current pan is for medieval potluck
Event steward: Ari Mala
Court of Love
Hosted by Eplaheimr
Takes place: Saturday, 21 February 2026
Activities: Fencing, Dancing, A&S, Feast or Potluck, Sewing, Royalty present
Winter is not over, and what better way to feel warm and fuzzy than by having a love-fest of appreciation for those we care for?! Be they our inspiration, someone/many whom we admire, esteem or honour as well as those we love. This will be your chance to let them know in many different ways!
Join us for a day of fun, feast and fika! There will be activities, fencing and classes. This event is catered and Feast will be a lunchtime affair and there will be a fika (High Tea!) after Court. All dogs, including service animals must be kept on a leash.
The High Tea is a potluck, so bring your best baked (or non-baked!) snacks, cakes, or buns with notions to share!
Eplaheimr Code of Conduct and Cancellation Policy applies.
Cost: Adult Members/Non-members: €20/€25 Students/Unwaged Members/Non-Members: €15/€20 Children 12 and under Members/Non-Members: €10/€15 Children 5 and under: Free
Site information: Google Maps location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/P1FFTSTjGGvwqqnm9 The site is a warm comfortable indoor space with multiple rooms including sufficiently size indoor space for combat activities. There is a changing room and a fully equipped kitchen should you need to heat or bake anything.
Monthly convocation meeting - more details and links to people to contact can be found on the Shire of Harpelstane facebook page, where each monthly convocation is set up as an event. The convocations are in Kirkcaldy, Fife (Scotland). We do a range of craft, cooking and fighting activities, weather and interest depending, so if you have a particular craft or activity that you are interested in doing or discussing, you can contact us for a special day! Pickups from the train or bus station available on request, basic lunch will be available, contributions welcome.
Site address: Kirkcaldy, Fife
Event steward: Elen Benet
Reservation:
Contact Helen Lever on facebook/messenger to advise if you have dietary requirements, or a request for the day, otherwise please see the facebook event to indicate attendance!
Reservation: If you have not already done so, please submit your membership info in order to be covered by insurance for this event: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdQVoke8fRAYESvkkqZC_9-YvMTRV6ZG85_ykcLOji5EyGJfA/viewform
Cost: Members £10 - Non Members £13 - First Time Event FREE
Payment: Payments can be made on site Payments can be made online. Please contact exch.pontalarch@gmail.com for details.
Depedene Monthly Gathering
Hosted by Depedene under Wychwood
Takes place: Saturday, 28 February 2026
Activities: Heavy Fighting, Fencing, A&S
A gathering for the people of Depedene in sunny Lancaster. There is space available for Armoured Combat, Fencing and A&S activities.
Cost: £65.00 per person £5.00 member discount No camping surcharge Children under 12 free Family cap of £162.50 (less member discount, so £150.00)
Activities: Heavy Fighting, Fencing, Archery, A&S, Feast or Potluck
Please join us for Flintmoot in Flintheath! An afternoon of A&S projects ongoing in the Hall, along with bardic and cooking. Outside, enjoy rapier, rattan, and archery practice.
Saturday 21 March 2026 from 12 noon to six o’clock (at 4pm, we’ll sit down for a discussion about Flintheath business and planning). Please remember outside shoes are not allowed in the Hall. There will be pot-luck munchies. If you would like to bring along some food to share, that would be great.
Location, Waterbeach Tillage Hall, CB25 9NJ
If you have not done so already, please submit your membership info in order to be covered by insurance for this event: https://tinyurl.com/FlintheathMemberStatus
Site address: Waterbeach Tillage Hall, CB25 9NJ
Event steward: Eularia Trewe
Reservation: As per our insurers, membership status is required to attend. If you have not done so already, please submit your membership info by Tuesday, 17 March at 6pm in order to be covered by insurance: https://tinyurl.com/FlintheathMemberStatus
Cost: Attendance is free - donations appreciated.
Site information: Tillage Hall is a spacious and light community building overlooking the beautiful recreation grounds in Waterbeach. Inside There is a brand new kitchen (fitted in Spring 2021) with a large central island and deep serving hatch, opening out onto the hall and providing plenty of worktop space. The kitchen is well equipped with a fridge, oven and microwave with plenty of crockery available for teas and coffees.
There are 9 tables and approximately 60 chairs available for your use stored in a cupboard off the main hall. The hall floor area measures 9.4 x 9.4 meters and has a high vaulted ceiling with velux roof windows. There are three toilets available, including disabled and baby change. Free Wifi available. Tillage Hall has a disabled toilet and entrance and fire exit doors suitable for wheelchair users. Parking The car park is shared with the recreation ground and can get busy on football fixture days (typically Saturday mornings).
Public transit Walking distance from the Waterbeach train station Nearest bus stop PR5 Park & Ride at Recreation Ground
Reservation: If you have not already done so, please submit your membership info in order to be covered by insurance for this event: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdQVoke8fRAYESvkkqZC_9-YvMTRV6ZG85_ykcLOji5EyGJfA/viewform
Cost: Members £10 - Non Members £13 - First Time Event FREE
Payment: Payments can be made on site Payments can be made online. Please contact exch.pontalarch@gmail.com for details.
March Convocation in Harpelstane
Hosted by Harpelstane
Takes place: Saturday, 28 March 2026
Activities: A&S, Feast or Potluck
Monthly convocation meeting - more details and links to people to contact can be found on the Shire of Harpelstane facebook page, where each monthly convocation is set up as an event. The convocations are in Kirkcaldy, Fife (Scotland). We do a range of craft, cooking and fighting activities, weather and interest depending, so if you have a particular craft or activity that you are interested in doing or discussing, you can contact us for a special day! Pickups from the train or bus station available on request, basic lunch will be available, contributions welcome.
Site address: Kirkcaldy, Fife
Event steward: Elen Benet
Reservation: Contact Helen Lever on facebook/messenger to advise if you have dietary requirements, or a request for the day, otherwise please see the facebook event to indicate attendance!
Activities: Heavy Fighting, Fencing, Archery, A&S, Feast or Potluck
Please join us for Flintmoot in Flintheath! An afternoon of A&S projects ongoing in the Hall, along with bardic and cooking. Outside, enjoy rapier, rattan, and archery practice.
Saturday 18 April 2026 from 12 noon to six o’clock (at 4pm, we’ll sit down for a discussion about Flintheath business and planning). Please remember outside shoes are not allowed in the Hall. There will be munchies for everyone. If you would like to bring along some food to share, that would be great.
Location, Waterbeach Tillage Hall, CB25 9NJ
If you have not done so already, please submit your membership info in order to be covered by insurance for this event: https://tinyurl.com/FlintheathMemberStatus
Site address: Waterbeach Tillage Hall, CB25 9NJ
Event steward: Eularia Trewe
Reservation: As per our insurers, membership status is required to attend. If you have not done so already, please submit your membership info by Tuesday, 14 April at 6pm in order to be covered by insurance: https://tinyurl.com/FlintheathMemberStatus
Cost: Attendance is free - donations appreciated.
Site information: Tillage Hall is a spacious and light community building overlooking the beautiful recreation grounds in Waterbeach. Inside There is a brand new kitchen (fitted in Spring 2021) with a large central island and deep serving hatch, opening out onto the hall and providing plenty of worktop space. The kitchen is well equipped with a fridge, oven and microwave with plenty of crockery available for teas and coffees.
There are 9 tables and approximately 60 chairs available for your use stored in a cupboard off the main hall. The hall floor area measures 9.4 x 9.4 meters and has a high vaulted ceiling with velux roof windows. There are three toilets available, including disabled and baby change. Free Wifi available. Tillage Hall has a disabled toilet and entrance and fire exit doors suitable for wheelchair users. Parking The car park is shared with the recreation ground and can get busy on football fixture days (typically Saturday mornings).
Public transit Walking distance from the Waterbeach train station Nearest bus stop PR5 Park & Ride at Recreation Ground
Reservation: If you have not already done so, please submit your membership info in order to be covered by insurance for this event: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdQVoke8fRAYESvkkqZC_9-YvMTRV6ZG85_ykcLOji5EyGJfA/viewform
Cost: Members £10 - Non Members £13 - First Time Event FREE
Payment: Payments can be made on site Payments can be made online. Please contact exch.pontalarch@gmail.com for details.
April Convocation in Harpelstane
Hosted by Harpelstane
Takes place: Saturday, 25 April 2026
Activities: A&S, Feast or Potluck
Monthly convocation meeting - more details and links to people to contact can be found on the Shire of Harpelstane facebook page, where each monthly convocation is set up as an event. The convocations are in Kirkcaldy, Fife (Scotland). We do a range of craft, cooking and fighting activities, weather and interest depending, so if you have a particular craft or activity that you are interested in doing or discussing, you can contact us for a special day! Pickups from the train or bus station available on request, basic lunch will be available, contributions welcome.
Site address: Kirkcaldy, Fife
Event steward: Elen Benet
Reservation: Contact Helen Lever on facebook/messenger to advise if you have dietary requirements, or a request for the day, otherwise please see the facebook event to indicate attendance!
Begins: Friday, 1 May 2026 Ends: Sunday, 3 May 2026
Activities: Archery, Feast or Potluck
Weekend of archery, food and fun. Target archery and field shoot.
Event steward: Caitriona of the Ravens
Flintmoot
Hosted by Flintheath
Takes place: Saturday, 16 May 2026
Activities: Heavy Fighting, Fencing, Archery, A&S, Feast or Potluck
Please join us for Flintmoot in Flintheath! An afternoon of A&S projects ongoing in the Hall, along with bardic and cooking. Outside, enjoy rapier, rattan, and archery practice.
Saturday 16 May 2026 from 12 noon to six o’clock (at 4pm, we’ll sit down for a discussion about Flintheath business and planning). Please remember outside shoes are not allowed in the Hall. There will be munchies for everyone. If you would like to bring along some food to share, that would be great.
Location, Waterbeach Tillage Hall, CB25 9NJ
If you have not done so already, please submit your membership info in order to be covered by insurance for this event: https://tinyurl.com/FlintheathMemberStatus
Site address: Waterbeach Tillage Hall, CB25 9NJ
Event steward: Eularia Trewe
Reservation: As per our insurers, membership status is required to attend. If you have not done so already, please submit your membership info by Tuesday, 12 May at 6pm in order to be covered by insurance: https://tinyurl.com/FlintheathMemberStatus
Cost: Attendance is free - donations appreciated.
Site information: Tillage Hall is a spacious and light community building overlooking the beautiful recreation grounds in Waterbeach. Inside There is a brand new kitchen (fitted in Spring 2021) with a large central island and deep serving hatch, opening out onto the hall and providing plenty of worktop space. The kitchen is well equipped with a fridge, oven and microwave with plenty of crockery available for teas and coffees.
There are 9 tables and approximately 60 chairs available for your use stored in a cupboard off the main hall. The hall floor area measures 9.4 x 9.4 meters and has a high vaulted ceiling with velux roof windows. There are three toilets available, including disabled and baby change. Free Wifi available. Tillage Hall has a disabled toilet and entrance and fire exit doors suitable for wheelchair users. Parking The car park is shared with the recreation ground and can get busy on football fixture days (typically Saturday mornings).
Public transit Walking distance from the Waterbeach train station Nearest bus stop PR5 Park & Ride at Recreation Ground
Begins: Friday, 22 May 2026 Ends: Monday, 25 May 2026
Activities: Heavy Fighting, Fencing, Archery, Dancing, A&S, Feast or Potluck, Camping, Equestrian
SAVE THE DATE!
With all due respect for the Venerable Bede . . . St Bede’s is back, baby!
A return to Manor Farm for Flintheath’s annual event. Laid back camping with plenty of room for your favourite things-to-do - rattan & fencing combat, archery, horses, A&S, bardic, the renowned pot luck feast - and probably some surprises! Please, won’t you join us?
Site address: Manor Farm, 14 Alms Hill, Bourn, Cambridgeshire, CB23 2SH
Event steward: Viscountess Eularia & Noble Renart
Reservation: Reservations will open at the end of January, and will close 15 May 2026
Site information: This is a camping event with an historic barn for indoor activities and various fields for martial activities. Site opens at 11am 22 May and closes 12pm 25 May 2026.
Pont Alarch Shire Day
Hosted by Pontalarch
Takes place: Saturday, 23 May 2026
Activities: Heavy Fighting, Fencing, Archery, A&S
Site address: Tockwith Village Hall YO26 7PR 10am - 6pm
Reservation: If you have not already done so, please submit your membership info in order to be covered by insurance for this event: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdQVoke8fRAYESvkkqZC_9-YvMTRV6ZG85_ykcLOji5EyGJfA/viewform
Cost: Members £10 - Non Members £13 - First Time Event FREE
Payment: Payments can be made on site Payments can be made online. Please contact exch.pontalarch@gmail.com for details.
May Convocation in Harpelstane
Hosted by Harpelstane
Takes place: Saturday, 23 May 2026
Activities: A&S, Feast or Potluck
Monthly convocation meeting - more details and links to people to contact can be found on the Shire of Harpelstane facebook page, where each monthly convocation is set up as an event. The convocations are in Kirkcaldy, Fife (Scotland). We do a range of craft, cooking and fighting activities, weather and interest depending, so if you have a particular craft or activity that you are interested in doing or discussing, you can contact us for a special day! Pickups from the train or bus station available on request, basic lunch will be available, contributions welcome.
Site address: Kirkcaldy, Fife
Event steward: Elen Benet
Reservation: Contact Helen Lever on facebook/messenger to advise if you have dietary requirements, or a request for the day, otherwise please see the facebook event to indicate attendance!
The Shire of Dun In Mara welcomes you to Strawberry Raid V, six days of camping around the beautifully restored 15th-16th century tower house of Sigginstown Castle, in the beautiful sunny South-East of Ireland. We will enjoy a range of activities from the arts, crafts and camp cookery to the martial pursuits of armoured combat, fencing and archery. Beginners and experienced practitioners are welcome across the board
Begins: Friday, 12 June 2026 Ends: Sunday, 14 June 2026
Activities: Heavy Fighting, Fencing, A&S, Feast or Potluck, Royalty present
The Shires of Depedene under Wychwood and Thamesreach invite you to join us in celebrating the coronation of the next Majesties of Drachenwald at the beautiful Ingestre Hall in Staffordshire, England.
Cost: Full event, staying onsite: £103.00 per person Full event, staying off-site (day-tripping): £93.00 per person Full event, unwaged/ concession: £83.00 onsite, 73.00 day-tripping per person Children under 12: free Family cap: £257.50 (2.5x standard charge)
Payment: Payment information will be provided after registration, Foreign guests can pay at the door
Site information: Ingestre Hall consists of a magnificent 16th Century Rose Brick Jacobean mansion house, the former home to the Earl of Shrewsbury. It is set in 27 acres of Staffordshire countryside with Capability Brown landscaped gardens surrounding the house.
The site is ideally suited being both easy to get to with all modes of transport yet being sufficiently secluded to allow the medieval atmosphere not to be disturbed by high levels of modernity. It has 100 beds, all bedding is provided, with additional specialist accommodation for disabled and carers supported by hard standing parking. Note there is no camping on site.
Begins: Friday, 19 June 2026 Ends: Saturday, 20 June 2026
Activities: Heavy Fighting, Fencing, A&S
The Shire of Flintheath will once again bring a demonstration display to the Fen Edge Festival. There will be A&S displays under our Shire pavilion, as well as rapier and heavy fighting demos. We hope to see you at this fun day out.
Site address: Cottenham Village College, High St, Cottenham, Cambridge CB24 8UA
Event steward: Lady Rebecca Stormwiga of Flintheath
Depedene Monthly Gathering
Hosted by Depedene under Wychwood
Takes place: Saturday, 20 June 2026
Activities: Heavy Fighting, Fencing, A&S
A gathering for the people of Depedene in sunny Lancaster. There is space availalble for Armoured Combat, Fencing and A&S activities.
Activities: Heavy Fighting, Fencing, Archery, A&S, Feast or Potluck
Please join us for Flintmoot in Flintheath! An afternoon of A&S projects ongoing in the Hall, along with bardic and cooking. Outside, enjoy rapier, rattan, and archery practice.
Saturday 27 June 2026 from 12 noon to six o’clock (at 4pm, we’ll sit down for a discussion about Flintheath business and planning). Please remember outside shoes are not allowed in the Hall. There will be munchies for everyone. If you would like to bring along some food to share, that would be great.
Location, Waterbeach Tillage Hall, CB25 9NJ
If you have not done so already, please submit your membership info in order to be covered by insurance for this event: https://tinyurl.com/FlintheathMemberStatus
Site address: Waterbeach Tillage Hall, CB25 9NJ
Event steward: Eularia Trewe
Reservation: As per our insurers, membership status is required to attend. If you have not done so already, please submit your membership info by Tuesday, 23 June at 6pm in order to be covered by insurance: https://tinyurl.com/FlintheathMemberStatus
Cost: Attendance is free - donations appreciated.
Site information: Tillage Hall is a spacious and light community building overlooking the beautiful recreation grounds in Waterbeach. Inside There is a brand new kitchen (fitted in Spring 2021) with a large central island and deep serving hatch, opening out onto the hall and providing plenty of worktop space. The kitchen is well equipped with a fridge, oven and microwave with plenty of crockery available for teas and coffees.
There are 9 tables and approximately 60 chairs available for your use stored in a cupboard off the main hall. The hall floor area measures 9.4 x 9.4 meters and has a high vaulted ceiling with velux roof windows. There are three toilets available, including disabled and baby change. Free Wifi available. Tillage Hall has a disabled toilet and entrance and fire exit doors suitable for wheelchair users. Parking The car park is shared with the recreation ground and can get busy on football fixture days (typically Saturday mornings).
Public transit Walking distance from the Waterbeach train station Nearest bus stop PR5 Park & Ride at Recreation Ground
Reservation: If you have not already done so, please submit your membership info in order to be covered by insurance for this event: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdQVoke8fRAYESvkkqZC_9-YvMTRV6ZG85_ykcLOji5EyGJfA/viewform
Cost: Members £10 - Non Members £13 - First Time Event FREE
Payment: Payments can be made on site Payments can be made online. Please contact exch.pontalarch@gmail.com for details.
June Convocation in Harpelstane
Hosted by Harpelstane
Takes place: Saturday, 27 June 2026
Activities: A&S, Feast or Potluck
Monthly convocation meeting - more details and links to people to contact can be found on the Shire of Harpelstane facebook page, where each monthly convocation is set up as an event. The convocations are in Kirkcaldy, Fife (Scotland). We do a range of craft, cooking and fighting activities, weather and interest depending, so if you have a particular craft or activity that you are interested in doing or discussing, you can contact us for a special day! Pickups from the train or bus station available on request, basic lunch will be available, contributions welcome.
Site address: Kirkcaldy, Fife
Event steward: Elen Benet
Reservation: Contact Helen Lever on facebook/messenger to advise if you have dietary requirements, or a request for the day, otherwise please see the facebook event to indicate attendance!
Activities: Heavy Fighting, Fencing, Archery, A&S, Feast or Potluck
Please join us for Flintmoot in Flintheath! An afternoon of A&S projects ongoing in the Hall, along with bardic and cooking. Outside, enjoy rapier, rattan, and archery practice.
Saturday 18 July 2026 from 12 noon to six o’clock (at 4pm, we’ll sit down for a discussion about Flintheath business and planning). Please remember outside shoes are not allowed in the Hall. There will be pot-luck munchies. If you would like to bring along some food to share, that would be great.
Location, Waterbeach Tillage Hall, CB25 9NJ
If you have not done so already, please submit your membership info in order to be covered by insurance for this event: https://tinyurl.com/FlintheathMemberStatus
Site address: Waterbeach Tillage Hall, CB25 9NJ
Event steward: Eularia Trewe
Reservation: As per our insurers, membership status is required to attend. If you have not done so already, please submit your membership info by Tuesday, 14 July at 6pm in order to be covered by insurance: https://tinyurl.com/FlintheathMemberStatus
Cost: Attendance is free - donations appreciated.
Site information: Tillage Hall is a spacious and light community building overlooking the beautiful recreation grounds in Waterbeach. Inside There is a brand new kitchen (fitted in Spring 2021) with a large central island and deep serving hatch, opening out onto the hall and providing plenty of worktop space. The kitchen is well equipped with a fridge, oven and microwave with plenty of crockery available for teas and coffees.
There are 9 tables and approximately 60 chairs available for your use stored in a cupboard off the main hall. The hall floor area measures 9.4 x 9.4 meters and has a high vaulted ceiling with velux roof windows. There are three toilets available, including disabled and baby change. Free Wifi available. Tillage Hall has a disabled toilet and entrance and fire exit doors suitable for wheelchair users. Parking The car park is shared with the recreation ground and can get busy on football fixture days (typically Saturday mornings).
Public transit Walking distance from the Waterbeach train station Nearest bus stop PR5 Park & Ride at Recreation Ground
Reservation: If you have not already done so, please submit your membership info in order to be covered by insurance for this event: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdQVoke8fRAYESvkkqZC_9-YvMTRV6ZG85_ykcLOji5EyGJfA/viewform
Cost: Members £10 - Non Members £13 - First Time Event FREE
Payment: Payments can be made on site Payments can be made online. Please contact exch.pontalarch@gmail.com for details.
July Convocation in Harpelstane
Hosted by Harpelstane
Takes place: Saturday, 25 July 2026
Activities: A&S, Feast or Potluck
Monthly convocation meeting - more details and links to people to contact can be found on the Shire of Harpelstane facebook page, where each monthly convocation is set up as an event. The convocations are in Kirkcaldy, Fife (Scotland). We do a range of craft, cooking and fighting activities, weather and interest depending, so if you have a particular craft or activity that you are interested in doing or discussing, you can contact us for a special day! Pickups from the train or bus station available on request, basic lunch will be available, contributions welcome.
Site address: Kirkcaldy, Fife
Event steward: Elen Benet
Reservation: Contact Helen Lever on facebook/messenger to advise if you have dietary requirements, or a request for the day, otherwise please see the facebook event to indicate attendance!
Monthly convocation meeting - more details and links to people to contact can be found on the Shire of Harpelstane facebook page, where each monthly convocation is set up as an event. The convocations are in Kirkcaldy, Fife (Scotland). We do a range of craft, cooking and fighting activities, weather and interest depending, so if you have a particular craft or activity that you are interested in doing or discussing, you can contact us for a special day! Pickups from the train or bus station available on request, basic lunch will be available, contributions welcome.
Site address: Kirkcaldy, Fife
Event steward: Elen Benet
Reservation: Contact Helen Lever on facebook/messenger to advise if you have dietary requirements, or a request for the day, otherwise please see the facebook event to indicate attendance!
Reservation: If you have not already done so, please submit your membership info in order to be covered by insurance for this event: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdQVoke8fRAYESvkkqZC_9-YvMTRV6ZG85_ykcLOji5EyGJfA/viewform
Cost: Members £10 - Non Members £13 - First Time Event FREE
Payment: Payments can be made on site Payments can be made online. Please contact exch.pontalarch@gmail.com for details.
Depedene Monthly Gathering
Hosted by Depedene under Wychwood
Takes place: Saturday, 29 August 2026
Activities: Heavy Fighting, Fencing, A&S
A gathering for the people of Depedene in sunny Lancaster. There is space availalble for Armoured Combat, Fencing and A&S activities.
Begins: Friday, 11 September 2026 Ends: Sunday, 13 September 2026
Activities: Heavy Fighting, Fencing, Archery, A&S, Feast or Potluck
Come and celebrate as the Champions of Lough Devnaree are chosen.
Event steward: Caitriona of the Ravens
Flintmoot
Hosted by Flintheath
Takes place: Saturday, 19 September 2026
Activities: Heavy Fighting, Fencing, Archery, A&S, Feast or Potluck
Please join us for Flintmoot in Flintheath! An afternoon of A&S projects ongoing in the Hall, along with bardic and cooking. Outside, enjoy rapier, rattan, and archery practice.
Saturday 19 September 2026 from 12 noon to six o’clock (at 4pm, we’ll sit down for a discussion about Flintheath business and planning). Please remember outside shoes are not allowed in the Hall. There will be pot-luck munchies. If you would like to bring along some food to share, that would be great.
Location, Waterbeach Tillage Hall, CB25 9NJ
If you have not done so already, please submit your membership info in order to be covered by insurance for this event: https://tinyurl.com/FlintheathMemberStatus
Site address: Waterbeach Tillage Hall, CB25 9NJ
Event steward: Eularia Trewe
Reservation: As per our insurers, membership status is required to attend. If you have not done so already, please submit your membership info by Tuesday, 15 September at 6pm in order to be covered by insurance: https://tinyurl.com/FlintheathMemberStatus
Cost: Attendance is free - donations appreciated.
Site information: Tillage Hall is a spacious and light community building overlooking the beautiful recreation grounds in Waterbeach. Inside There is a brand new kitchen (fitted in Spring 2021) with a large central island and deep serving hatch, opening out onto the hall and providing plenty of worktop space. The kitchen is well equipped with a fridge, oven and microwave with plenty of crockery available for teas and coffees.
There are 9 tables and approximately 60 chairs available for your use stored in a cupboard off the main hall. The hall floor area measures 9.4 x 9.4 meters and has a high vaulted ceiling with velux roof windows. There are three toilets available, including disabled and baby change. Free Wifi available. Tillage Hall has a disabled toilet and entrance and fire exit doors suitable for wheelchair users. Parking The car park is shared with the recreation ground and can get busy on football fixture days (typically Saturday mornings).
Public transit Walking distance from the Waterbeach train station Nearest bus stop PR5 Park & Ride at Recreation Ground
Reservation: If you have not already done so, please submit your membership info in order to be covered by insurance for this event: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdQVoke8fRAYESvkkqZC_9-YvMTRV6ZG85_ykcLOji5EyGJfA/viewform
Cost: Members £10 - Non Members £13 - First Time Event FREE
Payment: Payments can be made on site Payments can be made online. Please contact exch.pontalarch@gmail.com for details.
September Convocation in Harpelstane
Hosted by Harpelstane
Takes place: Saturday, 26 September 2026
Activities: A&S, Feast or Potluck
Monthly convocation meeting - more details and links to people to contact can be found on the Shire of Harpelstane facebook page, where each monthly convocation is set up as an event. The convocations are in Kirkcaldy, Fife (Scotland). We do a range of craft, cooking and fighting activities, weather and interest depending, so if you have a particular craft or activity that you are interested in doing or discussing, you can contact us for a special day! Pickups from the train or bus station available on request, basic lunch will be available, contributions welcome.
Site address: Kirkcaldy, Fife
Event steward: Elen Benet
Reservation: Contact Helen Lever on facebook/messenger to advise if you have dietary requirements, or a request for the day, otherwise please see the facebook event to indicate attendance!
Reservation: If you have not already done so, please submit your membership info in order to be covered by insurance for this event: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdQVoke8fRAYESvkkqZC_9-YvMTRV6ZG85_ykcLOji5EyGJfA/viewform
Cost: Members £10 - Non Members £13 - First Time Event FREE
Payment: Payments can be made on site Payments can be made online. Please contact exch.pontalarch@gmail.com for details.
Depedene Monthly Gathering
Hosted by Depedene under Wychwood
Takes place: Saturday, 17 October 2026
Activities: Heavy Fighting, Fencing, A&S
A gathering for the people of Depedene in sunny Lancaster. There is space availalble for Armoured Combat, Fencing and A&S activities.
Activities: Heavy Fighting, Fencing, Archery, A&S, Feast or Potluck
Please join us for Flintmoot in Flintheath! An afternoon of A&S projects ongoing in the Hall, along with bardic and cooking. Outside, enjoy rapier, rattan, and archery practice.
Saturday 24 October 2026 from 12 noon to six o’clock (at 4pm, we’ll sit down for a discussion about Flintheath business and planning). Please remember outside shoes are not allowed in the Hall. There will be pot-luck munchies. If you would like to bring along some food to share, that would be great.
Location, Waterbeach Tillage Hall, CB25 9NJ
If you have not done so already, please submit your membership info in order to be covered by insurance for this event: https://tinyurl.com/FlintheathMemberStatus
Site address: Waterbeach Tillage Hall, CB25 9NJ
Event steward: Eularia Trewe
Reservation: As per our insurers, membership status is required to attend. If you have not done so already, please submit your membership info by Tuesday, 20 October at 6pm in order to be covered by insurance: https://tinyurl.com/FlintheathMemberStatus
Cost: Attendance is free - donations appreciated.
Site information: Tillage Hall is a spacious and light community building overlooking the beautiful recreation grounds in Waterbeach. Inside There is a brand new kitchen (fitted in Spring 2021) with a large central island and deep serving hatch, opening out onto the hall and providing plenty of worktop space. The kitchen is well equipped with a fridge, oven and microwave with plenty of crockery available for teas and coffees.
There are 9 tables and approximately 60 chairs available for your use stored in a cupboard off the main hall. The hall floor area measures 9.4 x 9.4 meters and has a high vaulted ceiling with velux roof windows. There are three toilets available, including disabled and baby change. Free Wifi available. Tillage Hall has a disabled toilet and entrance and fire exit doors suitable for wheelchair users. Parking The car park is shared with the recreation ground and can get busy on football fixture days (typically Saturday mornings).
Public transit Walking distance from the Waterbeach train station Nearest bus stop PR5 Park & Ride at Recreation Ground
Monthly convocation meeting - more details and links to people to contact can be found on the Shire of Harpelstane facebook page, where each monthly convocation is set up as an event. The convocations are in Kirkcaldy, Fife (Scotland). We do a range of craft, cooking and fighting activities, weather and interest depending, so if you have a particular craft or activity that you are interested in doing or discussing, you can contact us for a special day! Pickups from the train or bus station available on request, basic lunch will be available, contributions welcome.
Site address: Kirkcaldy, Fife
Event steward: Elen Benet
Reservation: Contact Helen Lever on facebook/messenger to advise if you have dietary requirements, or a request for the day, otherwise please see the facebook event to indicate attendance!
Activities: Heavy Fighting, Fencing, Archery, A&S, Feast or Potluck
Please join us for Flintmoot in Flintheath! An afternoon of A&S projects ongoing in the Hall, along with bardic and cooking. Outside, enjoy rapier, rattan, and archery practice.
Saturday 21 November 2026 from 12 noon to six o’clock (at 4pm, we’ll sit down for a discussion about Flintheath business and planning). Please remember outside shoes are not allowed in the Hall. There will be pot-luck munchies. If you would like to bring along some food to share, that would be great.
Location, Waterbeach Tillage Hall, CB25 9NJ
If you have not done so already, please submit your membership info in order to be covered by insurance for this event: https://tinyurl.com/FlintheathMemberStatus
Site address: Waterbeach Tillage Hall, CB25 9NJ
Event steward: Eularia Trewe
Reservation: As per our insurers, membership status is required to attend. If you have not done so already, please submit your membership info by Tuesday, 17 November at 6pm in order to be covered by insurance: https://tinyurl.com/FlintheathMemberStatus
Cost: Attendance is free - donations appreciated.
Site information: Tillage Hall is a spacious and light community building overlooking the beautiful recreation grounds in Waterbeach. Inside There is a brand new kitchen (fitted in Spring 2021) with a large central island and deep serving hatch, opening out onto the hall and providing plenty of worktop space. The kitchen is well equipped with a fridge, oven and microwave with plenty of crockery available for teas and coffees.
There are 9 tables and approximately 60 chairs available for your use stored in a cupboard off the main hall. The hall floor area measures 9.4 x 9.4 meters and has a high vaulted ceiling with velux roof windows. There are three toilets available, including disabled and baby change. Free Wifi available. Tillage Hall has a disabled toilet and entrance and fire exit doors suitable for wheelchair users. Parking The car park is shared with the recreation ground and can get busy on football fixture days (typically Saturday mornings).
Public transit Walking distance from the Waterbeach train station Nearest bus stop PR5 Park & Ride at Recreation Ground
Reservation: If you have not already done so, please submit your membership info in order to be covered by insurance for this event: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdQVoke8fRAYESvkkqZC_9-YvMTRV6ZG85_ykcLOji5EyGJfA/viewform
Cost: Members £10 - Non Members £13 - First Time Event FREE
Payment: Payments can be made on site Payments can be made online. Please contact exch.pontalarch@gmail.com for details.
November Convocation in Harpelstane
Hosted by Harpelstane
Takes place: Saturday, 28 November 2026
Activities: A&S, Feast or Potluck
Monthly convocation meeting - more details and links to people to contact can be found on the Shire of Harpelstane facebook page, where each monthly convocation is set up as an event. The convocations are in Kirkcaldy, Fife (Scotland). We do a range of craft, cooking and fighting activities, weather and interest depending, so if you have a particular craft or activity that you are interested in doing or discussing, you can contact us for a special day! Pickups from the train or bus station available on request, basic lunch will be available, contributions welcome.
Site address: Kirkcaldy, FIfe
Event steward: Elen Benet
Reservation: Contact Helen Lever on facebook/messenger to advise if you have dietary requirements, or a request for the day, otherwise please see the facebook event to indicate attendance!
Begins: Friday, 4 December 2026 Ends: Sunday, 6 December 2026
Activities: Dancing, A&S, Feast or Potluck
SAVE THE DATE
Join us in Flintheath at Buckden Towers for our annual Yule Ball 4-6 December 2026 The Holly Monarch will be decided by an Arts & Sciences competition. Feast will be held at lunchtime, after the conclusion of the Holly Monarch tournament. Later, our dancers and bards will take charge of the Ball, which will continue until there’s nobody left on their feet.
Stay tuned for details.
Site address: Buckden Towers, High St, Buckden, St Neots, CAMBS, PE19 5TA
Event steward: Viscountess Eularia Trewe
Reservation: Important note: in accordance with our insurance provider and SCA CIC UK policy, membership in either the SCA CIC UK* or an SCA affiliate** is required for all attendees in order to be covered under our insurance. Membership is £15 for an adult for one year. If you require membership, visit https://membermojo.co.uk/scauk
If you are unwaged and would struggle to afford membership, please contact us at reservations@flintheath.org.uk
*SCA Community Interest Company (CIC) UK is a UK and Republic of Ireland-based affiliate of the Society for Creative Anachronism, Inc., a 501(c)3 Educational Not-for-Profit organization, based in the US. This affiliate is a local corporation, registered at Companies House, which provides its members services. ** SCA Affiliates: Nordmark (Sweden & Iceland), Aarnimetsä (Finland), Central (Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Germany, France. Netherlands, Russian Federation, Bulgaria), SCA Inc. (United States & Canada), Lochac (Australia & New Zealand)
Payment: Payment information will be provided after registration
Site information: The site, known as Buckden Towers has a rich history spanning over 900 years (https://www.buckden-towers.org.uk/history)
Pont Alarch Shire Day
Hosted by Pontalarch
Takes place: Saturday, 12 December 2026
Activities: Heavy Fighting, Fencing, Archery, A&S
Site address: Tockwith Village Hall YO26 7PR 10am - 6pm
Reservation: If you have not already done so, please submit your membership info in order to be covered by insurance for this event: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdQVoke8fRAYESvkkqZC_9-YvMTRV6ZG85_ykcLOji5EyGJfA/viewform
Cost: Members £10 - Non Members £13 - First Time Event FREE
Payment: Payments can be made on site Payments can be made online. Please contact exch.pontalarch@gmail.com for details.
Depedene Yuletide Gathering
Hosted by Depedene under Wychwood
Takes place: Saturday, 19 December 2026
Activities: Heavy Fighting, Fencing, A&S
A gathering for the people of Depedene in Lancaster. There is space availalble for Armoured Combat, Fencing and A&S activities. The same as normal but with Holiday flair!
