Haestingas is the Sussex branch of the early medieval reenactment society Regia Anglorum. We research and recreate the lives of the Anglo-Saxons, Vikings, Normans and the other diverse peoples who lived in the British Isles 1000 years ago.
We perform at historic sites, museums and village greens in Sussex and across the UK, bringing to life snapshots of daily life, demonstrating crafts and performing battle re-enactments.
Our main period of interest is from the first Viking invasions in the 8th century to the Norman invasion in 1066 AD. We are a non-political society and our members come from all walks of life with a huge variety of knowledge and interests.
We have members who specialise in everything from what goes into a medieval meal to those who can sail a boat and catch your dinner, dyeing clothes, making paint, carpentry, making coins, or fighting off a Viking invader. As a group based between the Weald and the sea we have a particular interest in maritime history and crafts.
What we have in common is a passion for early medieval history and an enthusiasm for sharing our knowledge and skills.
We are proud of our authentic portrayals and have a reputation for engaging displays and exciting, fast paced combat.
Public engagement
Bringing history to life for the public at local and national shows.
Sailing
Crafting
Training
Fighting
Hire Us
Let us help you bring history alive and make your event one to remember.
We are available for hire for events and talks across Sussex. Our displays bring a snapshot of the sights, sounds (and smells) of the medieval world to life. We provide professional, engaging displays of crafts and skills with hands on activities for the public to have a go, as well demonstrations of combat and skill at arms.
We provide high quality, engaging displays of crafts and skills with hands-on activities for the public to have a go, as well demonstrations of combat and skill at arms.
Find out more on our hiring us page.
Join Us
Have you ever wondered how people lived, thought and felt in a time when everything had to be made by hand. Or what it feels like to be part of a shieldwall and swing a sword in a line of battle. Do you enjoy learning new and unusual crafts or the challenge of researching and experimenting to find out how they might have done things a thousand years ago?
We are a friendly group and are always open to new members. Previous experience is not necessary and we will support you in getting up and running. Find out more on our members’ page.
A Note on Politics
Regia Anglorum is an early medieval society which holds no political stance. However, we are aware of the common misappropriation of Viking and Saxon imagery and culture to further racist and prejudicial agendas. We utterly condemn this and all other forms of bigotry as we strive to make history interesting, engaging and inclusive for everyone.