Battlefield Walks in the Midlands

The combination of country walking with visits to battlefields is a most rewarding experience. The Midlands has played a prominent part in the military history of England and the events that form the basis of the 22 walks in this guide range from the 13th to the 20th centuries, from the Battle of Evesham (1265) to the bombing of Coventry (1940).

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The combination of country walking with visits to battlefields is a most rewarding experience. As well as providing exercise and fresh air, these walks arouse historic interest and imagination. It is not surprising that there are so many battlefields in the Midlands. As opposing armies converged on each other from different parts of the country, it is logical that they should often meet up somewhere in the centre. Because of this, the Midlands has played a prominent part in the military history of England and the events that form the basis of the 22 walks in this guide range from the 13th to the 20th centuries, from the Battle of Evesham (1265) to the bombing of Coventry (1940). Imagine the scenes in these 22 battlefield walks, featuring military engagements throughout the Midlands. There are 14 battlefields, 3 siege sites and the scenes of 5 other military events ranging from Charles II's escape from his pursuers at Boscobel House, to the World War II bombing of Coventry. Introductory material provides a summary of both the War of the Roses and the Civil War. Most of the sites are in peaceful and tranquil surroundings and situated amidst attractive countryside.
Many have features of interest nearby - a ruined castle, a cathedral, an ancient house, or old churches and abbeys - to add to the interest and enjoyment of the walk. Each walk includes a summary of a military engagement, putting battles and sieges into historical context, plus full route description, description of other places of interest en route (e.g. churches, castles) and suggestions for local follow-up visits associated with the battle (such as museums or church memorials). A wide variety of terrain and battlefield sites are contained in this guide, both urban and rural. Some sites are accessible, well-preserved and well-signed - others are less so and require more imagination to visualise the conflict. Battles and other military events are described in detail, as are the route directions.