Exeter Open 2026 Set to Return to the Great Hall

The University of Exeter Fencing Club will host the Exeter Open 2026 on 13–14 June at the Great Hall on Streatham Campus, bringing together fencers from across the UK for a two-day senior open competition.

Open to both novice and experienced competitors, the event will feature six weapon categories and offer national ranking points, as well as regional points for fencers in the South West. Organisers expect a wide range of participants, from first-time competitors to seasoned athletes.

Entries opened on 1 April and will close on 11 June, with an early bird fee available until 19 April before reverting to the standard £40 entry. Competitors must be aged 13 or above and hold a valid British Fencing “Compete” membership.

The competition will follow a standard format of one or two rounds of poules, depending on entry numbers, followed by direct elimination rounds. There will be no cut after the poules, ensuring all fencers progress into the elimination stage. Organisers have also indicated that additional fencing opportunities may be available after the main event, potentially including plate competitions or informal bouts.

The timetable is split across two days. Saturday will host mixed épée, women’s foil and women’s sabre, while Sunday will feature mixed foil, women’s épée and mixed sabre. Check-in opens from 08:30 on both days, with fencing scheduled to begin shortly after close of registration.

The event will include live-streaming and photography coverage, with results published in real time through Fencing Time Live. While organisers aim to provide referees for as many matches as possible, some self-refereeing may be required.

Participants are reminded to ensure all equipment meets British Fencing safety standards. There will be no armoury or equipment vendors on site, so competitors are expected to bring their own spare kit.

The Great Hall venue will open from 07:30 each day and offers seating for spectators, as well as changing rooms and water refill stations. Parking is available on campus, and the venue is approximately a 20-minute walk from Exeter St Davids station.

Organisers have emphasised that while the competition carries ranking significance, the aim is to maintain a welcoming and supportive environment. New competitors are encouraged to get in touch in advance, with a buddy system available to help those unfamiliar with competition formats.

With entries now open, the Exeter Open 2026 is expected to be a key fixture in the university fencing calendar, combining competitive opportunity with a strong community atmosphere.