By the Sword

By the Sword Hi my name is Fran and I host a UK podcast discussing Historical martial arts, as well as events centring under represented genders.
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Whether you are experienced or new to swordplay, whatever your background, this is for you. By the Sword began as an event for women, by women, where they can learn and discover a variety of Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA). It has grown to become a series of NB and female-led events as well as a weekly podcast with instructors, experts and fencers from all around the world. The inaugural e

vent took place in the UK March 2017, and featured international instructors from the UK, the Netherlands and Italy; and covered multiple disciplines from pugilism and wrestling, to sword & cape, two handed greatsword, longsword and case of swords. Plans are set to continue this event each year, to create a welcoming environment where beginners and experienced practitioners alike can learn together.

Artemis is a unique event that gives people of under represented genders a chance to learn and share skills in a support...
17/06/2026

Artemis is a unique event that gives people of under represented genders a chance to learn and share skills in a supportive and safe environment. Classes included but were not limited to various historical European martial arts. Other featured workshops were: writing, bee identification, jewellery making, stage combat, q***r history, Arthurian legends, and character creation.

Last August I discovered a castle in Wiltshire for hire, and within 24 hours I had filled all the places. Attendees agree to share the day to day responsibilities of food prep and clean up, and each person is encouraged to run a skill share workshop. We had a total of 27 classes over the four days we were there, prepared and cleaned up 15 meals, and consumed 72 eggs!

It was a phenomenal success, and now we are all passionate about bees! Everyone who attended has been telling me not just how much they enjoyed the experience, but how important it is to them. For me this is key to why URG spaces and events matter, especially if we want to encourage diversity in our communities.

A departure from my usual events, my focus for Artemis was to spend time sharing skills in a relaxed and whimsical space, enjoying company and forging friendships in the process.

During the weekend I came to the decision that I definitely want to repeat this in 2027, and I am already planning the next retreat. I would like to make this accessible to people who would not otherwise be able to afford this opportunity, therefore I will be seeking sponsorship for some of the places.

Please get in touch if you want to either sponsor a place or register interest in Artemis 2027.

16/06/2026

Artemis is a skill sharing weekend for under represented genders. Have a skill or interest to share? DM for info about our next event.

16/06/2026

Funny meme. This is why we need better qualified teachers in schools.

DM if you want to attend or sponsor our next castle retreat.
15/06/2026

DM if you want to attend or sponsor our next castle retreat.

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Godalming

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