FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

How expensive is re-enacting?

You could be looking to around £1000 for your basic uniform and an additional £400 for your full uniform. This is an estimate figure for joining the Centre Company. If you shop around and look for deals you can get it all alot cheaper. Besides your uniform, you will need to join the Regiment (£15) and The Napoleonic Association (£22). This accounts for all your insurance, black powder, and all the other hidden extras. You should also expect to some travelling around, to and from events. This means travelling expenses.

What uniforms and equipment do I need to buy and where do I get it all from?

You are expected to purchase your own uniform and you will need at least your basic unform to participate in events, plus advanced equipment at a later point, plus a musket (Shotgun), shotgun license and black powder license or deactivated musket. See
Uniform & Equipment for a rough guide to what you will need.
You can obtain most of your kit in the Regiment, otherwise we can supply you with details of where to get the kit elsewhere if you prefer to go by this route.

Will I be given full training?

Yes absolutely! The whole Regiment undergoes training drills throughout the winter months, where you are trained on drill, marching, loading and firing, dress, military etiquette, everything you will need to know to fight on the battlefield. New Privates get one on one tuitition from an experienced chosen man. Most importantly if you are using a live firing musket, we will make sure you are profficient in using your musket correctly.

See a short video of one of our pre-battle drills - Click Here

What roles are available?

Most men join as a Private in the Centre Company, however there are positions available in the Light Company. If you have musical skills such as you play the drums or could play a fife, then we always welcome new drummers.
You could also join as a camp follower or dandy. Women take on the roles of ladies, or camp followers and wenches.

What events do you do?

An event might be a small skirmish, large battalion formed battle, a public drill display, concert, TV work...the list is really endless. We do a whole range of different events throughout the year. Last year (2003), we were involved in the forthcoming movie production of Vanity Fair!.

How do battles work and what are they like?

We employ military techniques and strategies of the period, which means we usually form up in tight lines, shoulder to shoulder. Usually we combine with other regiments to form a stronger force. In actual battle we fire volleys at the French troops under command and advance or retreat at the whim of our commanding officers. We may be required to do some light skirmishing, we may be charged by a formation of cavalry, which means forming a defensive square, whereby the French cannon make mincemeat out of us! You may on occasion be expected to fall in battle, but don't worry we have a fully qualified surgeon who is well briefed in the medical techniques of the day.

Is it dangerous?

Any hobby involving gun powder has an element of danger to it. However, you will be fully trained and health and safety regulations are very stringent.

Can all genders join the Regiment?

Yes - But only men can join the British Line Infantry . Women may take on roles such as ladies or camp followers.
If you are female and would like to join as a soldier, we recommend an alternative Regiment within the Napoleonic Association.

What is the Regiment like and will it suit me?

The Regiment is very welcoming and very helpful to new members. It has a nice family atmosphere, where we have entire families as members (Including little ones). After events we stay together, cook, chat by the campfire and freeze as the sun goes down. Some even like to further the Army's tradition of excessive alcohol consumption.
Please feel free to talk to our recuiting members if you have any questions, or come and see us at drill or on the battlefield.