Discover the history of Britain through its monarchs.

The first couple of centuries in a series of talks that look at the history of Britain through its rulers, from its abandonment by the Roman administration early in the fifth century to the union of the crowns of England and Scotland in 1603. Each talk can be standalone as well as part of the series, you do not have to see all the talks to appreciate these particular royals.

An era of unification and external attack: 800-1000

Shortly before 800, the British Isles came under attack from raiders originating in Scandinavia, mostly from Denmark and Norway, known generically as Vikings. The Danes ravaged the eastern part of Britain, while the Norse attacked the western part and Ireland; eventually, some settled and created their own kingdoms. Perhaps in response to these incursions, some kingdoms organised their defence and took over neighbouring statelets. The kingdom of Dál Riata merged with Pictland to form the Kingdom of Alba in the 840s; Gwynedd conquered much of Wales; England was unified under King Athelstan. Even after the Norse and Danes were driven out, they remained a threat to these new kingdoms.

Doors open 15 minutes before the event starts.