The sport of archery is rooted deep in the history of Britain. Names such as Fletcher (arrow maker), Archer and Bowyer (bow maker) are common enough to give an indication as to how many people took names directly from the bow and arrow.
	The bow is recognised as one of the earliest and most effective hunting weapons, but it was as a weapon of war that the bow became most famous, with the traditional English Longbow the most feared of them all.  Skilled longbow archers were a prized asset in Medieval Britain and their deeds in successfully beating the French in battles such as Crecy and Agincourt, when heavily outnumbered, are legend.
Modern archery equipment, by contrast to the simple longbow, is complex and highly technical - but we don't want to use that - we want you to return to the simplicity of times gone by. Using trainer bows, and then some traditional wooden longbows, you'll be able to try shooting at a range of targets: - Traditional 'Bullseye' - from distances of 10 yards upwards - Clout archery - more of a true Medieval sport,  aiming at bigger targets on the ground  which could be up to 150 yards away -    simulating the way archers shot their arrows at their enemies centuries ago. - Field Archery - try hitting a range of targets simulating game such as Wild Boar. - Fun targets such as melons, pumpkins,  balloons and split the willow.
	To become a genuine longbow archer took many years of practice, but with good training and equipment, you can become competent enough in a half day session to really feel like the real thing. It's a really entertaining group activity, either as the centrepiece or as a part of a bigger team event. Our Archery sessions normally take place in the beautiful grounds of Dalemain House on the edge of the Lake District near Ullswater, and will give you an experience to remember.