A journey into life on the road & the observations of mediaeval wayfarers
There is a common assumption that folk in the mediaeval period never travelled beyond their own parish. The reality is that many people, from all social classes, found themselves on the road in mediaeval Britain. They included drovers, artisans, merchants, pilgrims, and entire household retinues. This online talk will look at what life was like for mediaeval travellers, the conditions of the road, the stories they told, the places they saw, and where they stayed overnight.
Drawing on the written accounts of people including Gerald of Wales, William Worcestre, and John Leland we will delve into observations on British landscape and architecture between the twelfth and sixteenth centuries. These ancient travellers left behind vital and unique documents of their time on the road which still resonate with readers to this day…
To book this lecture for an in-person or online event please do get in contact
