The Dawn Duellists Society is a Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA) club based in Edinburgh

DDS has been practising and teaching HEMA in Edinburgh since 1994, and currently offers classes on Longsword, Sabre and a variety of other historical combat styles.

In HEMA we reconstruct the forgotten fighting systems of Europe’s past. Working from contemporary treatises and manuscripts, we recreate these lost arts.

At DDS we believe everyone should have the opportunity to participate in HEMA. We strive to create a club culture where everyone feels safe, is free to be themselves, and can learn effectively. We welcome people of all/no genders, races, ethnicities, body types, sexual orientations and social backgrounds, and we will endeavour to ensure DDS is an accessible environment for any disabled person.

Whether you are a total beginner or an experienced athlete and fencer you are welcome to join our classes.