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.

Consolidation: 1000-1200

The height of Viking expansion saw Danish kings ruling England early in the eleventh century and descendants of Norse settlers in France defeated the English at the Battle of Hastings, establishing a Norman aristocracy. This brought significant changes, including the introduction of feudalism, Norman-French law, and a new ruling class. Welsh kingdoms continued to fight between themselves and gradually suffered from encroachment by Norman Marcher lords. Scotland saw increasing centralisation of its institutions and gradual Norman influence. The marriage of Henry II to Eleanor of Aquitaine created the Angevin Empire, a collection of territories including England, Normandy and Aquitaine.

Doors open 15 minutes before the event starts.