The Wars of the Roses in Yorkshire Tour

One of Travel Editions’ most popular and hard-working experts is medieval historian, Julian Humphrys, whose historical knowledge is matched only by his enthusiasm in imparting information in a clear and entertaining manner. The latest subject to feature on his portfolio of tours is the War of the Roses. We all know that the houses of Lancaster and York were at loggerheads, and each has a different colour rose - red for Lancashire and white for Yorkshire and that the two counties have a fierce rivalry, both sporting and otherwise, that continues to this day. This tour will provide the historical backdrop to this rivalry with a series of talks, visits and tours that reveal the truth behind the legends. Joining Julian will be Dr Nicola Tallis who will lend her experience and knowledge to the unfolding of the tale.

ITINERARY

Day 1: Arrive independently at the Parsonage Hotel, Escrick from 15.00. 
This evening there will be a welcome reception, private dinner with wine and a talk by Julian Humphrys, ‘Yorkshire and the Wars of the Roses’.

Day 2: Sandal Castle, Royal Armouries in Leeds, Townton Battlefield and St Mary’s Church, Lead, Saxton
A packed day of visits starts with Sandal Castle, first constructed in the 1180s, and central to the 1460 Battle of Wakefield. From here we head into Leeds and the superb Royal Armouries Museum, home to the UK’s national collection of arms and armour, including those employed in the 15^th century. After time for lunch (not included), we head to Saxton for a tour of the Towton Battlefield in 1461 which secured the crown for the Yorkists. And finally to All Saint’s Church which is home to the 17th-century tomb of Lord Dacre and the modern memorial stone. The inscription on Dacre’s Tomb reads, ‘Here lies Ralph Lord of Dacre and Gilsland, a true soldier valiant in battle in the service of Henry VI, who died Palm Sunday 29 March 1461, on whose soul God have mercy’. Supposedly, this isn’t just the resting place of Lord Dacre - his horse is buried with him and gravediggers in 1861 discovered the skull of a horse very near the tomb, so it may be true that Lord Dacre was buried upright, astride his horse, as legend has it. Evening talk from Dr Nicola Tallis – ‘Women and the Wars of the Roses’ and dinner at the hotel.

Day 3: York and Middleham Castle
This morning we head to York to visit its magnificent Minster and its ramparts, explored on guided walks in small groups with Minster guides, Julian and Nicola. York Minster, completed in 1472 and the second largest Gothic Cathedral in Europe is one of England’s most important buildings. York’s ramparts featured massively in the Wars of the Roses – one of the gates, Bootham Bar is mentioned in Shakespeare’s Henry IV part II and was used to display the heads of traitors, including Thomas Mowbray. A host of tales will be recounted by your erudite guides. After time for lunch (not included) we head to our last visit in the telling of this epic tale - Middleham Castle in the Yorkshire Dales. Once the childhood home of Richard III, you can relive the castle’s illustrious history and unlock the deeds of its great owners. Although roofless, extensive remains of the fortified palace still survive, giving a fascinating insight into medieval life, especially when to brought to life by your guides. Arrival back at the hotel for approx. 18.00hrs.  

NB: Exact order of itinerary may vary according to local conditions and tour manager's discretion

Please note: Post tour extra nights are available at a supplement.

Please note the maximum group size on this tour is 40 passengers.

INCLUDED

• Two nights’ bed and breakfast at the Parsonage Hotel, Escrick, based on shared occupancy of a twin/double room
• Welcome reception
• First night three-course dinner with wine
• Second night dinner in the hotel restaurant
• All talks, guided tours and admissions
• Coach touring itinerary and tour manager throughout

NOT INCLUDED

• Transport to the hotel is not included
• Hotel Car Parking
• Double for sole use supplement
• Extra nights on bed and breakfast basis
• Holiday insurance
• Meals other than those stated
• Items of a personal nature such as drinks, laundry, telephone calls etc
• Porterage and gratuities 

HOTEL

Parsonage Hotel & Spa, Escrick
Lovely three-star hotel dating from the 1840s, located in extensive grounds in the village of Escrick, six miles south of York. The hotel boasts a restaurant, bar, and spa as well as comfortable bedrooms with en-suite bathroom, TV, telephone, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. 

Complimentary Parking

Hotel Website