A walk led by Museum Director, David Dawson.
In July 1643, a Royalist army commanded by General Hopton was marching towards the King’s capital at Oxford, pursued by a Parliamentary army headed by William Waller.
After the Battle of Lansdown, on the hills above Bath, the Royalist army sought safety in Devizes, where they were beseiged by the Parliamentary forces. Help was summoned from the King at Oxford.
On 13 July 1643, a Royalist cavalry relief force arrived and the two armies faced each other on Roundway Down. As fighting began, Royalist forces marched from Devizes to join the bloody battle that left over 500 dead.
Join this walk to hear more about the battle, the aftermath and how important it was for the eventual outcome of the Civil War.
David will also highlight the important archaeological discoveries along the route, including the burials of a Bronze Age Archer and Saxon Abbess, as well as the site of a Roman spa.
Details of the day:
Date – Sunday 13 July
Start time – 2.30 pm
The walk is expected to last approx. three hours.
Distance – approximately 3 miles.
Meet – Meet at the Eastern end of Leipzig Plantation on Roundway Down, close to the Devizes White Horse. Grid Ref. SU 014 641.
Parking – parking on gravel lay-by and edge of track
Cost – £15 (£12 – WANHS members)
Booking – essential ‘book online’ below.
Maximum Number – 18 (excluding walk leader).
Dogs on leads are welcome.
Terms and Conditions
Stout footwear, protective clothing to suit the prevailing weather conditions and reasonable mobility will be required. Please ensure that you bring water and snacks; this is particularly important in hot weather.
The event may be postponed if adverse weather is forecast.
Unless sold out, bookings will close at 9 am on the day of the outing.