
There is a thriving HEMA scene in Glasgow, and we are delighted to be part of it all at the Vanguard Centre!
Established in 2015, the Vanguard Centre is a full-time training centre for archery, blacksmithing, and HEMA. We have a venue just south of Central Station in Glasgow city centre and our sessions are taught by professional instructors with years of experience.
Our HEMA practices are thoroughly based in historical sources. We follow books written by fencing masters of the past and we try to recreate these methods as a functional and enjoyable martial art today.
Safety is of great importance to us, so we wear protective gear such as modern fencing masks and padded gloves. We also work hard to make our space as welcoming as possible and are always happy to chat and see what we can do to help include you in our sessions.
We believe that the Vanguard Centre is one of the foremost HEMA schools in Glasgow, and we strive every day to make this statement true!
Current HEMA Classes

Sword and Buckler is an elegant fencing discipline from the 14th and 15th centuries. The buckler, a small round shield, is used to protect your sword-hand from incoming strikes.
Read on for more information about sword and buckler.
Book your participation in one of our sword and buckler classes.

Scottish Broadsword & Military Sabre is the class where we study some of the various different methods for using single-handed cutting swords during the 18th and 19th centuries.
Read on for more information about broadsword and sabre.
Book your participation in one of our broadsword and sabre classes.

Longsword is a fast-paced and athletic sword-fighting discipline from the 15th and 16th centuries. A whole-body workout with one of the most iconic swords!
Read on for more information about longsword.
Book your participation in one of our longsword classes.

General Sword Skills is the class where we drill our fundamentals, making sure that we can rely on our basics when we need them in sparring.
Read on for more information about general sword skills.
Book your participation in one of our general sword skills classes.
If you have any questions about any of these activities, please send us an email or give us a call, and we will be happy to help.