For those going on their first event (or who couldn't remember the last one!):
Generally in tents. Sometimes we can be in church halls etc, but this is very infrequent. If you don't have your own tent, negotiate your way into someone else's. We will generally organise who is where as a group before we set off, if no one talks to you about this, don't assume it's being done for you.
Camping at events is generally split into two:
Stay warm. A big tent stores more gear, but is harder to heat up and keep warm than a small one. Go for the smallest tent you can that will fit everyone/thing in. If the weather is really cold, consider putting all the gear in one tent, and the people together in another.
Everyone chips-in to help put the tents up when we arrive (it's generally dark). No sidling off to the beer tent until the job is done ("that includes you my Lord, my Lady" - doffs coif reverendly).
Some sites are on the edge of small towns - pub(s), corner shop, take-aways if you're lucky.
Some are in the middle of nowhere.
Most of the weekend will be spend in period kit. Most folks do not bother taking a change of 20thC clothing.
You WILL need period eating utensils (in order of importance) a trencher/plate/bowl, a mug or cup (but preferably a drinking bowl called a "mazer"), a spoon, and eating knife. All eating in front of the public must be "in period".
Everyone is responsible for washing up their own eating utensils and keeping them safe (or beating their squire to do it for them). That way we only have to worry about the cooking utensils.
As usual, we can lend a limited number, but you will still be responsible for them during the event. Food will not be served onto unclean utensils.
We generally cater as a group for all members that want reasonably authentic food. We cook the food in front of the public (all praise to the chef), over an open fire (provoking questions such as "is it real"*, "do you really eat it"):
* "Is that a real fish?" - "no ma'am, it's a specially trained stunt fish, this is far too dangerous for a real fish".
Charges are usually £5 or less for an entire weekend (that's up to six meals folks!). The food is excellent, there's plenty of it. We pride ourselves on cleanliness and safe practice - no one has ever been ill! If you want to do you're own thing (live off chips), feel free.
Anyone who brings period breads, cakes, biscuits, snacks etc. will generally be worshipped.
You WILL be expected to assist in basic food preparation (peeling, chopping),ensuring there is enough wood for the fire and tending it, fetching water etc.
At major events there are generally tea/coffee/burger vans on site. They are normally commercially astute enough to open early for breakfast.
IMPORTANT - 1 - do not eat non-period food or use non-period containers when the public is present. That's no burgers, chips, ice-cream etc or carrying plastic bags around. If you want tea, coffee or coke, put it into a period container.
IMPORTANT - 2. Be aware that, due to UK public health regulations, we are not allowed to let any member of the public sample ANY food, whether it's cooked on-site or at home.
Most events have a beer tent. This is generally good value and open 'til late. Remember, no drinking before or during battles etc. No drinking while the public is still onsite.
If going into town or to the pub, leave your "equipment" behind - no swords, axes, knives etc., even if only blunts.
Most sites provide drinking water. If unsure, bring your own bottled water. Everyone takes it in turns to fill the (cunningly disguised) non-period water containers.
Remember to drink enough water, you will be running round in heavy kit, generally in the hot sun. You lose 4-6 pints of water a day just doing normal activities. Try to drink at least a pint of water an hour for the two to three hours before a battle. It's no good trying to throw a large quantity down your neck at the last minute!
Nope. If you are that concerned about personal hygiene, find a lake, or book into a B-and-B.
All events have toilets (can be plumbed in, but generally chemical). Ensure you take a personal supply of toilet paper - it can run out.
There may be hotels or B&B's nearby. If you book into one of these, expect some flak from the rest of the group.You will not be excused camp chores.
We mostly have a fire (usually in a firebox) as part of the camp, to cook on. You will have to assist on collecting and chopping wood and minding the fire. There may be a big campfire in the evenings, generally near to the beer tent. Do not start your own fires. Some sites may restrict the use of camping stoves in the plastic camp due to fire risk.
Essentials to remember to take:
©Mark Graves 2002