Membership Information

Who we are!

We’re a Royalist Foote regiment portraying Crown forces during the English Civil Wars (1642–1651) as a part of the sealed knot reenactment society, one of the largest in Europe! and sometimes as a rough and ready company of mercenaries seeking coin and glory around Europe.

What we do!

Right now, we’re mainly a musket and cannon regiment—so most of our ranks are either firing muskets in ranks in the thick of the fighting or commonly skirmishing as “dragoons” (only one of few regiments that do this!) or manning the big guns. We pride ourselves on being one of the best musket regiments in the King’s Army!

But maybe you fancy the rough and tumble of a pike push? Good news—we’re still happily taking recruits for pikemen! Not into fighting at all? No problem! Camp followers, cooks, musicians, mischief-makers—we welcome all non-combat roles too

All we care about in Northhamptons is good spirit and a good laugh. That’s what keeps the campfire warm!

Where are we based?

Everywhere! Events happen all across the UK (and even a few in Europe!). We’ve got members scattered from the Midlands to Peterborough, Luton, even down in Cornwall. Doesn’t matter where you are—we’ll help you find the closest member to you!

Who can join?

Anyone can join, we accept everyone from all walks of life, faith, sexuality and gender in Northamptons. We also are a neurodivergent friendly regiment. We pride ourself on being as welcoming as we can be.

How old do I have to be to join?

To fight on the battlefield, you must be 18 or older. But if you’re under 18, you can still join as part of a family! You’ll be welcome on camp and can take part in non-battle activities with a parent or guardian present.

This hobby can be life-changing for young people (just ask our own musketeer Ryan!) It builds confidence, gives you a safe space to let off steam, and teaches loads.

How much does it cost to join?

• Temporary Membership (for one event):• £20 solo / £30 family

• Covers entry, parking, kit hire, and insurance

• Full Membership:• £47 solo / £67 family

• Family = 2 adults + children under 18

We highly recommend starting with a temporary membership—try a couple of events first and see if it’s your thing. If you love it, you just pay the difference to upgrade to full membership!

How Many Events Do I Have to Attend?

That’s entirely up to you! This is a hobby at the end of the day, and while you may be taking the King’s coin to join his service, you’re not expected to be at every event under the sun. We do ask that you try to attend at least one “major” event each year — typically the early and late May bank holidays, or the August bank holiday. But we fully understand that life gets in the way, and that might not always be possible. Just be as present as you can, and show up with enthusiasm when you do!

Where do I get my kit?

Hold up there, soldier! Don’t go buying anything just yet. This hobby can be a bit pricey, so we recommend doing a few events first before committing to your own gear. For your first couple of events, Northhamptons will kit you out with everything you need to get on the field.

Once you’re ready to get your own, we’ll point you toward:

• Regiment tailors

• Second-hand kit sales at big Sealed Knot events

• Trade fairs like TORM

• Trusted vendors

Can I join with children?

Absolutely! The Sealed Knot is a brilliant family-friendly hobby. Whole families have grown up in it, and if the kids get the bug, they can even join the Apprentice at Arms—learning the ropes early so they’re ready to fight when they’re old enough!

Can I join with dogs?

Yes please! We love a good camp dog.

Just be aware that the sounds of battle can be a bit stressful for some animals, so keep that in mind. But if they’re happy to tag along, we’re happy to fuss them!

So what are you waiting for? The army marches on—join the war cry!