For centuries, the Anglo-Saxons and their world has captured the minds and imaginations of historians and non-historians alike. Their impact on England can still be seen on various place names throughout the country, their culture and beliefs preserved in modern fantasy literature passed down from generation to generation.

The line-up for this summer’s Chalke History Festival (23^rd to 29^th June) boasts a stellar list of world-renowned historians, the very best living history experts in the land and household names to make your mouth water. In a fresh approach for 2025, the festival will look and maybe feel a little different, with a stunning new site layout, bigger tents and some newly created areas to engage the crowd and get people talking about history in a more informal way.

A groundbreaking new study of the medieval warhorse.

Amid visions, betrayal, and divine relics, the survival of the First Crusade at Antioch hinged on faith as much as strategy — but how much of it was real, and how much was desperation? In this article, Adam Staten unpacks the extraordinary story of the Holy Lance, the rise and fall of Peter Bartholomew, and the fragile line between belief and manipulation that shaped the fate of the crusaders

The Canterbury Tales - A medieval storytellers treasure trove

The Jomsvikings were not just a standalone unit but part of a larger Viking world, interacting with other groups and influencing the course of Viking history. Their influence on Viking warfare and culture is a significant part of their historical significance, and understanding their role in this larger context is crucial to appreciate it fully.

Winter in the medieval period was a harsh and unforgiving season. For many, surviving the cold months required a combination of practical knowledge, resourcefulness, and sheer determination. Unlike the modern conveniences of central heating and insulated homes, medieval people had to rely on simpler, yet effective, methods to stay warm and healthy during winter.

A review of Michael Livingston’s revelatory book on the Battle of Crecy - a must read for anyone interested in the medieval period.

A review of ‘The Wars of the Roses: The medieval Art of Graham Turner’.

A review of Sharon Bennett Connolly’s new book, ‘Women of the Anarchy’