UK HEMA

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Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA) are formerly practised martial arts of European origin, that have since died out or evolved into very different forms. Their practise has been revived through reference to historic manuals and experimentation over the last four decades.  The term Western Martial Arts (WMA) is sometimes used in the United States.  Historic Fencing is another term often used by practitioners.
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Within the UK, HEMA is also a growing sport with over 100 clubs and a lively competitive scene.  This most involves fencing with ​blunt steel swords, which have been specifically designed to minimise chance of injury, for instance by ensuring they flex on contact.  The most commonly practiced disciplines in the UK are Longsword, Sabre, Sword & Buckler and Rapier & Dagger, but every club will have its own focus and set of options.

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Who are UK HEMA

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This website has been setup to support the UK HEMA community with information and help forge connections.

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We also aim to provide support to the people who are interested in finding out more about HEMA and hopefully joining in the fun.

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We don’t claim to represent anyone and we are not a governing body (there is currently no governing body for HEMA in the UK).

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UK HEMA is not run by (or directly affiliated) with any existing HEMA club and we strive to present unbiased information to the community. However, for the sake of transparency, the team currently running UKHEMA are predominantly members of SMARTHEMA.

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The Team

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Patrick Rance started modern fencing at 16 and moved over to HEMA in 2018. He primarily trains with SMARTHEMA.  He is among the top ranked international competitors for Sword & Buckler and Rapier & Dagger. 

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David de Lange has been practicing HEMA since 2021, starting in London with Hunters Stage Combat and HEMA.  Then helping to found the Worcester HEMA club which later joined as the third SMARTHEMA club. He is not top ranked in anything but as he doesn't train so much actually has time to update the website.

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If you have any questions about HEMA in the UK or about this website please do get in touch, we love talking about HEMA with people.

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