Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA) in Woodford, Redbridge & Essex
Learn authentic historical sword fighting right on the border of East London and West Essex. Tempus Fugitives offers expert tuition in 15th to 17th-century European martial systems, teaching longsword, rapier, dagger, and companion weapons straight from historical fencing manuals.
Whether you are looking for a unique way to build fitness, explore martial history, or learn practical self-defence systems, our Woodford classes welcome complete beginners through to advanced practitioners.
Conveniently Located for East London, Redbridge & West Essex
Our North London / Essex branch operates in Woodford, making it easily accessible for students across:
Redbridge & East London: Woodford, South Woodford, Wanstead, Ilford, and Walthamstow.
West Essex: Chigwell, Loughton, Buckhurst Hill, Epping, and Brentwood.
Located just off the A406 (North Circular) and A12, and within easy reach of the Central Line, our venue provides convenient access whether you are commuting from Central London or traveling in from the Essex countryside.
What We Teach at Our Woodford School
Our training focuses on martial context, technical accuracy, and practical application. Every lesson breaks down techniques directly from historical treatises while ensuring a safe, supportive training environment.
Primary Weapons Systems:
Longsword: Master the double-handed sword techniques of the German and Italian traditions.
Rapier & Dagger: Experience the elegant and deadly fencing methods of Elizabethan London and Continental Europe.
- Sword & Buckler: The origin of the term ‘Swashbuckler’, these tools were at carried as civilian weaponry and equally as supplementary arms on the battlefield.
Companion Weapons: Train with the buckler, shield, cape, and practical grappling involving daggers.
Polearms & Military Arms: Explore partisan and halberd combat used by elite troops of the period.
Beginners Are Always Welcome
You don’t need prior martial arts experience or expensive gear to get started with Tempus Fugitives.
No Gear Required: All safety equipment and training weapons are provided.
All Fitness Levels: Fencing is often described as physical chess—it builds flexibility, core strength, and cardio fitness at your own pace.
Friendly Community: Train in an inclusive, social atmosphere where members range from university students to active practitioners in their 60s.
Class Schedules & Venue Details
How to Find Us & Transport Details
- By Public Transport: We are a short walk from South Woodford Underground Station on the Central Line, offering direct connections from Central London and West Essex.
- By Car & Parking: Conveniently accessible via the A406 (North Circular) and A12. Parking is available at the nearby Derby Road Car Park (Derby Road, South Woodford, E18 2PU), which is free after 17:00 on our training days. On-street pay-and-display parking is also located in the surrounding streets.
Venue Address:
Tempus Fugitives HEMA Club (Woodford)
Memorial Hall, High Road, Woodford, Greater London / Essex, E18 2PA
Training Times:
Tuesday Evenings: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Foundational & Advanced Classes)
- Thursday Evenings: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Foundational & Advanced Classes)
Start Your HEMA Journey in Essex & London
Ready to pick up a sword? Get in touch with our instruction team to book your trial session or ask any questions about our Woodford classes.
Email: info@tempus-fugitives.co.uk