The York City Levy is a group of experienced living history enthusiasts who portray the men, women and children of the second half of the 15th century.

We’re a friendly, fun group of both individuals and families and pride ourselves on our high standard of authentic costume and equipment, providing a professional yet inclusive approach to public events.

The York City Levy concentrates on civilian living history from 1455 to 1500; this includes the Wars of the Roses and the reign of the early Tudors. Our aim is to be engaging, entertaining and to educate visitors on life for those living during this time.

 

Gallery

Over the years we have visited many amazing places and met some lovely people on the way. Here is a collection of snapshots from these events.

Butter making at Durham Cathedral

Fancy footware

Flute playing

Stone carving

Chopping firewood

Lovely ladies at Stokesay castle

The wilds of Belsay Castle

Pontefract Castle Seige

St George and the Dragon

Bowyer at Pontefract Castle

Rievaulx Abbey

Interesting Arrows

You can find more photographs of the York City Levy on our gallery page.

So who are the york city levy?

We are are a re-enactment group portraying common men & women of the City of York from the second half of the 15th century. This was very much a turbulent period in English history known today as the Wars of the Roses.

This is the period , was. For over 25 years the York City Levy has worked for a wide range of heritage organisations including English Heritage, The National Trust, The York Archaeological Society, Northumberland and Wakefield Councils.

We specialise in providing high quality displays based around the everyday life, fun and celebrations of ‘ordinary people’ – for example artisans, craftsmen, merchants and traders and their families. By concentrating on family life in late medieval society we feel visitors are better able to relate to events over 500 years ago.

 

 

At our events, we offer a wide range of activities, many of which encourage visitor participation. To ensure visitors have the chance to experience a broad range of talks, entertainment and demonstrations we usually work to a timetable highlighting when and where they will take place. We tailor our activities to suit each venue, the nature of the event and the time of year.
 
The York City Levy is a small group that punches well above it’s weight to filling venues across the north of England with the colours, sounds and smells of everyday 15th century life. For larger events we often team up with other group members of Livery and Maintenance and independent reenactors.

 

Thinking of having a go yourself?

We are always on the look out for new members. It doesn’t really matter whether you are an experienced reenactor or are new to the hobby. All that’s needed is an interest in medieval history, enthusiasm and a bit of a can-do attitude.

Clothing and equipment is available to loan, as is plenty of friendly help and advice with getting started and becoming involved with the Levy. Why not get in touch it would be lovely to hear from you.

 

Thinking hiring the Levy for your event?

We are always on the look out for new and exciting places to educate and entertain. The Levy is available for weekend events throughout the year across the north of England and Midlands, however during summer months we can travel further a field.

We are always able to tailor an event to a particular period or theme you have in mind. So why not get in touch and see how we can bring medieval life to your event.

Why not get in touch?

If you would like to join or hire the York City Levy for your event please fill in the form below and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.

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