The Battle of Tewkesbury | Battle Trail

A visit to Tewkesbury is incomplete without a trip to the battle fields. Tewkesbury was the location of one of the most important battles during the Wars of the Roses, and the town has been defined by it ever since. So, being the historians that we are, J and I popped into the Tewkesbury Visitor Information Centre and picked up a Battle Trail map for 1 pound. 

The Battle of Tewkesbury took place on 4 May 1471. Margaret of Anjou, the exiled wife of King Henry VI, had landed in England to try and claim her son's place on the throne. However, she knew she could not defeat King Edward IV's army on her own, and needed a place cross the River Severn into Lancastrian supported Wales. The Yorkist army caught up to the Lancastrians at Tewkesbury, and a battle broke out. 

A total of 11,000 men fought at the battle. The Lancastrians army consisted of 5,000, most of whom were foot soldiers. The Yorkist army however had 6,000 men, most of whom were archers and mounted soldiers. Edward IV and his army overpowered the Lancastrians, and Margaret of Anjou was defeated and imprisoned. 

The walk itself takes a little over an hour. The trail guides you through a series of unmarked fields and gates. The map isn't terribly clear to understand, but well worth doing if you love history/ a little adventure! We even made a few friends along the way!

Happy Thursday!

xoxo

A 15th Century Ale House | Hidden Treasures in Tewkesbury

Just a thirty minute stroll outside the center of Tewkesbury is a 15th century ale house called the Lower Lode Inn. We were told to make a trip to the ale house by the Tewkesbury Visitor Centre, and we were not disappointed. Veering off the Battle Trail, we found the ale house fairly easily. The problem was the giant river separating us from our destination. The Visitor Centre had told us there was a ferry service, and after some confusion we finally figured out how to signal the gentleman driving the tiny boat. In fact, that particular ferry service can trace its roots all the way back to the Battle of Tewkesbury in 1471 when Lancastrians tried to flee to the other side of the river!

The weather was absolutely perfect. I spent a solid 3 hours here, just sitting and reading. The staff was extremely friendly and it was obviously the perfect stop for bikers and families alike. My only complaint was the wait for the food. With the amount of people visiting, we knew we were going to have to wait a bit for our order. However, we ended up waiting an hour and a half for two starters! Obviously we were enjoying just sitting and reading, but considering it was a Saturday, I was expecting slightly faster service. Despite the wait, our starter dishes were absolutely amazing. 

If you have the time and don't mind a little adventure, I would highly suggest making the trek out to this historic ale house!

Happy Friday!
xoxo