Summer visit to Evesham
on Wednesday 1st July 2026
Welford and Weston Local History Society
(www.welfordandweston.org.uk)
Newsletter 105
Known for the 1265 Battle of Evesham—where Simon de Montfort was defeated and decapitated —and its rich horticultural heritage, the town grew within a fertile loop of the River Avon, developing into a significant, wealthy religious centre before the 16th-century Dissolution.
Please complete this form to reserve your place
** Please make cheques payable to Welford & Weston Local History Society
and return to our Treasurer, Dave Holmes, Peacehaven, Binton Rd CV37 8PR
or our Chair, Karen Dickinson, The Old Forge, Chapel Street, CV37 8PX
.
On August 4, 1265, Evesham was the site of a decisive battle during the Second Barons' War. Prince Edward (later King Edward I) defeated the rebel army led by Simon de Montfort, who was killed and buried in the abbey. It is often described as a "massacre" due to the overwhelming royalist victory.
- Account Name : Welford and Weston Local history society
- Sort Code : 09-01-54
- Account number : 83103284
- Reference : Your name
Evesham was founded around a 700 AD Benedictine Abbey, spurred by a swineherd's vision. The town’s name derives from "Eof's Homme" (land in a river bend belonging to Eof). According to tradition, in 701 AD, a swineherd named Eof saw a vision of the Virgin Mary, leading Saint Egwin to found Evesham Abbey on the spot.
The History Society is pleased to announce that bookings are now open for our summer visit this year, in the afternoon on Wednesday 1 July, to the historic market town of Evesham in Worcestershire.
Why are there two churches side by side in the centre of Evesham? Who was Simon de Montfort and why is he considered the Father of Parliament? What happened to Evesham’s immense Abbey?
All these questions and more will be answered by an extremely knowledgeable guide who will take us around the significant sites in Evesham
The abbey became one of the wealthiest and most important in England, dominating town life and leading to the development of the market town. In 1540, the Abbey was largely destroyed during Henry VIII's Dissolution of the Monasteries, though the 16th-century Bell Tower with its Carillon survived
Accessibility
Our walking tour will take place on a good flat surface with parking nearby. Please note that this is a self-drive event. After the walking tour we will drive down to Hampton Ferry for a cream tea of sandwiches and scones. Karen has already tested the excellent quality of the tea provided!
Price and How to Book
The price for this trip will be £20.00 for members, and £25.00 for non-members. This includes the guided tour and a delicious cream tea!
There are 20 places available on this trip. Please book early to avoid disappointment.
If you would like to join us for this trip, please zcomplete the booking form below and indicate whether you have spare capacity in your car for others to join you. Alternatively indicate whether you would like a lift.
This is a great opportunity for a super tour – We hope to see you there
Karen Dickinson & the History Society Committee
