York Free Fencers

York Free Fencers Guild is a York-based study group dedicated to Historical European Martial Arts, with a particular focus on the fencing teachings of Joachim Meyer, a 16th-century German fencing master. The group studies Meyer’s 1570 work on the art of combat, along with his other writings, using its detailed instruction as the foundation for training. Members work through different weapon disciplines before specialising, including longsword, dusack, grappling, dagger, side sword, polearms and rapier.

The guild holds regular training sessions on Wednesday evenings at York Steiner School in Fulford. Its activities combine practical fencing with an interest in the history of weapons and their use in the York area. The group also has links with the York Town Guard and plans visits to the Royal Armouries and other museums. As part of the international Meyer Frei Fechter Guild, York Free Fencers Guild connects with a wider community of groups and practitioners studying Meyer’s system. Training offers a physically and mentally engaging way to develop fitness, strength, flexibility and reactions.