The Wars of the Roses was a 30-year fight for control of England's crown between the rival houses of York and Lancaster. Some of the most famous battles took place in the North of England. They include Wakefield, where Richard, Duke of York, was killed while serving as Lord Protector. His son Edward, raced to London to claim the crown and then faced his Lancastrian enemies at Towton. Our historian-led tour takes you to the battle sites for unparalleled insight into the action that took place. Plus, you'll visit key castles and take a walking tour of York, the power-base for the House of York and your base for this fascinating short break.
The expert leading your tour
Julian Humphrys has appeared as a historical expert on TV programmes including Channel Five’s series on British battlefields and on BBC Radio 4’s Ramblings Series. He is the author of books including The Private Life of Palaces; Clash of Arms: Twelve English Battles, and Enemies at the Gate: English Castles under Siege.
He spent 12 years at Chelsea’s National Army Museum and set up and led English Heritage’s Battlefield hikes programme.
Julian is Development Officer of the Battlefields Trust, the UK Charity dedicated to the preservation and interpretation of Britain’s historic battlefields. He is also a qualified blue-badge guide.
Highlights of your history holiday
- Walking tour of York
- Battle site at Towton
- Sandal Castle and the battlefield at Wakefield
- Middleham Castle, where Richard III spent his childhood
Praise for this tour
"The tour was outstanding all round - the choice of sites, the accommodation and Julian Humphrys' expertise, enthusiasm and friendliness. I had a wonderful time."
Christopher M.
"The perfect short holiday for battlefield enthusiasts. We packed more into a long weekend than I could have imagined. Never a dull moment; excellent accommodation and our tour guide Julian Humphrys was enthusiastic, knowledgeable and brilliant at bringing the battles to life in front of our eyes."
Sheila B.
Book this tour
The next departure for this three-day tour is 20 May 2024 with prices from from £749 per person, based on two sharing. You can reserve your place with a non-refundable deposit of £74.90. There is no single supplement for individuals staying in single rooms, and a small extra charge for individuals in twin or double rooms. Click here to start your booking.
Please note, that we require a minimum of five guests for this tour to go ahead. If this number is not reached within four weeks of the departure date we reserve the right to cancel the tour and will offer you a full refund or the chance to move your booking to a later date.
Included in your holiday
- Luxury hotel in York centre
- Expert guide
- Executive minibus travel to all sites
- Entry to all attractions
- Breakfast and dinner each day
Register Your Interest
Want to let us know you're interested in this tour, but not yet ready to book. Click here to send an email to our team, and we will keep you updated with latest news from the tour.
Event organiser is Promenade Travel.
Disclaimer: All information was correct when the listing was prepared. Any questions about the event should be directed to the event organiser.