Sir Ralph Neville prepared to take the field

Paladins of Chivalry

The Paladins of Chivalry is one of the few re-enactment societies in the UK to re-create the late fourteenth century, from the beginning of the reign of Edward III to the end of the reign of Henry V (1327 - 1422). This was a period of huge change, seeing innovation not only in warfare, religion and politics, but also tremendous social upheaval as the peasants revolted against crippling taxes, threatening to destroy the traditional order, and the new merchant classes fought for their place as the old feudal system began to crumble. A fascinating period to re-enact, the fourteenth century saw the foundation of our modern legal and judicial systems, our literary culture, and even the language we speak today.

It was a bloody time, with England engaged in the continuing struggle with France (now known as the Hundred Years War) which encompassed the great battles of Crecy, Poitiers, and Agincourt. Even within its own borders, England was occupied in constant war with Scotland and Wales, and the squabbles of the noble families were to set the stage for the Wars of the Roses of the following century. Yet in this age of conflict, the fourteenth century saw the high point of chivalry as we know it. Images of knights in armour and beautiful courtly ladies evoke wonder and envy today just as they did for our medieval ancestors, and amidst the blood and frenzy of the medieval battlefield, deeds of such honour and glory were performed that the tales still echo today.

An illimunated border from the Lapworth Missal, 1398

Sir John Hawkwood, Commander of the White Company

The Paladins of Chivalry have worked for several years for English Heritage, appearing regularly at the annual 'History in Action' showcase re-enactment event. We have also performed at some of the most beautiful and well-known heritage sites in the UK; including the castles at Dover, Leeds, Kenilworth, Old Sarum and Bodiam as well as the Tower of London, Canterbury Cathedral and Battle Abbey. Our clients within the heritage sector include Chaucer Heritage, Birmingham City Museum and the Hastings Heritage Trust.

The Paladins have appeared regularly on television, working most notably for the BBC, ITV, The Discovery Channel and Channel Four. We have featured in a documentary on The Peasants Revolt with Tony Robinson; appeared in Meet The Ancestors, been filmed for commercials, and have even been seen in such diverse programmes as Red Dwarf and Midsomer Murders! Our services have also been made use of on a smaller scale by local schools, charities, craft fairs and youth organisations.

Members of the Paladins of Chivalry come from all walks of life and a diverse range of backgrounds. None are professional historians, but we number teachers, IT professionals, scientists, solicitors, nurses, engineers, full-time mothers, librarians and students amongst our members! Regardless of age or background, each individual member has a valuable contribution to make and an important role to play within the group, and all that is required to join is an interest in history and in re-enactment, and a desire to have fun!