Membership Information

We hope you will consider joining us. This page gives details of the various types of membership and what we expect (and don't expect) of our members.

Temporary Membership

If you like what you see at one of our events and would like to take part during that event, then join as a 'temporary member'. This is necessary to comply with our insurance requirements.We will try to kit you out with enough costume to enable you to 'look the part'.

Full Membership

To continue to participate in events during the same year, you must become a full member. If you're already a temporary member, you only need to pay the difference in fee to do this.

The annual membership fee is currently £10 for a single member and £15 for family membership.

As well as being able to take part in our events, members receive "The Culverin", our quarterly members' magazine, full of articles about the group and the 17th century, along with details of forthcoming events.

Naturally, members are not obliged to attend every event although we hope you will come to as many as possible. You will be sent 'Warning Orders' prior to each event giving details of the event and how to get to the venue. If you are unable to make it, simply phone someone who is attending.

If you enjoy camping, a tent is the best accommodation during events. Many members have an authentic 17th century tent and use these, which then become part of the 'authentic camp' open to the public during the event. Alternatively, modern tents are welcome but these will be situated away from the authentic camp at times when this is open to the public. Campers and caravans may also be used, if space at the venue permits.

Young Members

Members must be aged 16 years or over to participate in combat situations and use weapons. Under 16's will 'take cover' or become an 'early casualty' in any action taking place. Also, for child protection reasons, under 16's must enroll with an adult member and be accompanied by an adult member at events.

Equipment

We would expect you to buy your own authentic shirt, stockings and shoes during your first year. More items can then be added each year, depending on the roles you play at the events. A basic soldier can be kitted out for about £120. There is no strict uniform so you don't have to wear exactly the same as everyone else though the regiments do have their own coats in a particular colour.

Being a small group, we are friendly and often help you to get started. Authentic shoes are the most expensive item at around 60 Pounds a pair. Spare pairs may be hired, but it is hoped you will buy your own pair as soon as possible, before someone else hires, or buys them! There is nothing to stop you making your own shirts, coats, chemise or dress (provided the fabric used is not composed of man-made fibres). Indeed, many of the members do this and may have patterns you could borrow. This applies to men as well as women - it isn't 'sissy' to sew!

Weaponry

To become a Musketeer, it will be necessary for you to obtain a shotgun licence and a black-powder licence from your local police. Black-powder is issued by the Powder Master each day just before the start of the event and any surplus is returned to the Powder Master at the end of the event. A Code of Practice exists for members to learn how to use guns and powder with the utmost safety. A copy of this is available to all members and is frequently updated in line with changes in legislation.

For safety reasons, members need to be approved in the use of weapons before they can take part in a fight situation. All the soldiers are taught to use swords and pole-arms safely (even if they do not own a sword yet!) and they are encouraged to practice as often as possible. They must learn the basic moves and then develop realistic but safe sword-play and pike-fights for the skirmishes. Be warned - this is not as easy as it seems!

The women too may try their hand with a sword. They could be the only ones left 'alive' after a siege and may still feel the need to fight the enemy. Gauntlets are recommended to be worn, for protection in swordplay combat and from possible splinters from your own pole-arm!

We advise members that they should be in possession of a current full membership card when conveying weapons to and from events. If the police check your vehicle and you don't have a membership card, then you might find difficulty convincing them about 'legal possession' of offensive weapons. For this reason members are urged to renew their membership early in the New Year, before the event season starts.

Friend of The Siege Group

If you do not wish to take part in our activities but still wish to support our aims and receive The Culverin, enquire about this option, though we would prefer you to participate.

How to Find Out More

If you would like to know more about the Siege Group, the best way is to come to an event and talk to us. Alternatively, email us at and someone will contact you.