I've been looking around a lot since I moved to Stoke, 3 months ago. I was wondering if there is anyone in Staffordshire that trains in any type of historical martial arts? The only thing I have found semi local is Gaunt's Retinue and from what I have seen they are more of a re-enactment group? My problem is though, I can only attend classes on weekends due to my rather awful working hours Would anyone be able to point me in the right direction?
Not that I'm aware of offhand. As of 5 years ago, Stoke on Trent for example didn't have any HEMA according to our own Polar Bear. You can ask these guys: http://www.thebfhs.org.uk/find-a-group-c31.html And check here too: http://www.communitywalk.com/map/index/942724 I of course, would advise relocating to Calgary.
Dunno if this is too late for you, but these teach down past Chesterton in Newcastle Under Lyme, if you don't drive its the 4 or 4A bus one or the other. http://academyofhistoricalarts.co.uk/instructors/kieren-smith.php German Longsword and some other stuff.
slasha, that is absoloutely spot on! exactly the sort of thing I was looking for! thank you very much indeed sir!