Destrier was formed in 1996 by a group of re-enactors, historical enthusiasts and horse riders. Initially the team participated in battle displays to provide cavalry in these large-scale spectacles.Since then the group has expanded it’s activities in numerous directions and has widened its remit considerably.

What is a Destrier? This is the medieval term for a knight’s warhorse. It comes from the Latin tern “dextrari” or “in the right hand”. As a knight invariably rode on the march on another horse, saving the energy of his battle steed for the vital moment, his squire led his warhorse. A squire would also be mounted and as he, like the knight would have learnt to steer his horse one handed (the other needed to ply his weapons), he would control his own horse with his reins in the left hand- the right hand being for a sword or lance. When marching, therefore, the warhorse spent a considerable amount of time being led “in the right hand”.

Although its name alludes to matters medieval, mounted and military, Destrier has evolved considerably as a group in the last eight years or so since it’s formation. In essence the group is dedicated to the research and representation of all matters medieval and equestrian. This can range from reconstructing a medieval bridle or researching the medieval woman’s sidesaddle to rekindling the art of mounted falconry or the competitive sport of jousting.

The group now boasts a vast array of talented individuals among its members. All manner of skills are welcomed and employed to the full. From lecturers to researchers; leatherworkers to armourers; horse trainers and riding instructors; actors to artists- all contribute to the unique spectacle that is a Destrier presentation.

Part of what makes the team unique is the attention to detail in everything required in reproducing medieval life- from costume to armour, grooming kit to saddlery. From tents to muck shovels- literally everything needed to provide and accommodate. Each and every aspect is the subject of careful research and considerable expense to ensure that the backdrop, presentations and performances are as accurate and authentic as possible. This is a testament to the team’s dedication to produce an educational as well as entertaining appearance.

But education can only be achieved through entertainment. Destrier prides itself on the unique blend it has achieved in action packed arena performances, spiced with adventure and a little humour- but is equally proud of it’s ability to engage the crowd off stage with members conversing one to one with visitors to impart points of historical detail. No other horse display team can boast what Destrier can provide.

Every year the Destrier touch can be seen more and more at both it’s own events and others where organisers know where to hire talented individuals. At numerous historic sites and television productions,at country fairs, great castles, grand tournaments, history documentaries, music album covers, television dramas, school lectures and more. Both in the UK and abroad- literally hundreds of such presentations have benefited from our endeavours.