Black Knight Historical was founded in October 2003 by Ian Pycroft, a long-time dedicated historical enthusiast, performer and entrepreneur. The company built on Ian's experience in medieval life recreations, artefacts and displays, and has gradually evolved to cover Romans, Anglo-Saxon, Tudors, Georgians, Victorians and World War II, in fact the whole of the last 2000 years is on offer. We are constantly adding new characters and activities, and creating new services for our clients.

Here is some information on a few of our team, which will give you an idea of our experience, qualifications and diversity.

Ian started historical re-enactment in 1985 playing a 'black knight' in a local medieval group, and from this acorn did the oak tree grow to it's current size. He has organised hundreds of historical displays in Britain and abroad, from individual performances thropugh to pageants with thousands of cast. Ian is a member of the renowned European 15th century 'Living History' group "The Companie of St George". He set up his first historical business in 1993, supplying replica artefacts to Madame Tussauds for the Kingmaker exhibition at Warwick Castle, and to Gainsborough Old Hall. Ian founded Black Knight Historical after a sabbatical, which keeps developing and improving thanks to his enthusiasm, directive and the efforts of its experienced and dedicated team.

Neil has been re-enacting since the late 1980s and was involved in the first residential living history event for school children in Britain – where children from 1989 were ‘evacuated’ to Holt Hall, Norfolk, 1939. Neil is a history graduate of the University of East Anglia, and devotes his time to research, writing, consultancy and lectures. He has published over thirty books on a variety of social and military history themes and regularly contributes articles for national and international history and genealogical journals and magazines. Neil is a versatile re-enactor, taking part in Medieval, Tudor, Georgian, Victorian and World War II events in a variety of roles from a barber surgeon to a RAF pilot.

Sarah has been passionate about the social and domestic aspects of history since childhood. She has a degree in History and English, and pursued a teaching career. For the last 20+ years she has worked with students of all ages, inviting them to learn skills as diverse as calligraphy and cookery whilst bringing the associated history to life and linking it across the current curriculum. Sarah has always been fascinated by the range and diversity of practical skills used daily in the past. Her favourite period is Victorian because of its endless inventiveness, but Tudor confectionery comes a close second.

Izabela is a professional costumier and Interpreter with 15 years of experience. She specialises in historically correct clothing and props, and made many of the beautiful costumes you can see on this site. Izabela received an MA in English literature, and her knowledge of Old and Middle English greatly assists her costume research. Izabela is also an expert in several historical crafts, including lace making and tablet weaving. She enjoys giving talks and demonstrations as well as more active pursuits - as a member of Sir Richard Grenvile’s regiment, she takes part in 17th C. cavalry battles. Izabela loves variety and re-enacts many different periods, from Vikings to the 19th century. She also runs her own costuming business, Prior Attire.

Sian first joined a re-enactment group at the tender age of 14, and history has been her passion ever since. She received BA (Hons) in History and Archaeology from the University of Southampton; her thesis was devoted to medieval hunting techniques, and formed a part of a groundbreaking research project. Sian's favourite period is late 14th century, where she portrays Elizabeth Plantagenet, Countess of Exeter, or Meg, a kitchen maid. Sian is a talented musician and dancer, and an expert in social history. She enjoys giving talks to the public and has a knack of making kids listen to her with their mouths open.

Gary provides a very special touch to our events - he is our Master Falconer. His extensive experience with birds of prey allows him to create displays which are just right for every occasion, from Medieval to Victorian. Gary has always been interested in the history of falconry and hunting, and published his research into breeding of captive hawks and falcons in the 19th century. When he is not taking part in our shows, Gary devotes himself to his business, which includes pest control and bird rescue.Backwoods Falconry.

Molly has been re-enacting for nearly 20 years, and clothing is her passion. Molly's personal historical wardrobe encompasses around 700 years! She also researches and makes costumes for private clients, museums and educational sessions, from ancient Egyptians to World War II. Molly's historical interpretational work is wide ranging, but life in the 16th century is a favourite. For many years she portrayed a warrener, studied - and lived! - all aspects of this fascinating role, and there isn't much she can't tell you about rabbits!. She has recently published her first books, jointly-written 'Women in the First World War', 'Women in the Second World War' and the 'Women's Land Army' is in progress.

Kindra is the newest member of our great team. Starting her re-creation life at Kentwell Hall in Sufolk, she has built up a great collection of period costumes and artefacts covering Anglo Saxon though to her portrayal of a 1940's WREN. Pictured left is her Tudor Queen interpretation, seen for the first time at Blickling Hall in June 2011. Her B.A. Hons in History, obtained at Bath Spa University saw her nominated for an award for her dissertation into 14th century English effigies & brasses, indeed her love of armour, history and reconstructions is only matched by her love of chocolate, cookies and cream!