While we have so far explored the Tower of London as a mighty fortress, an opulent palace and a notorious prison, this is just the tip of the iceberg in the rich 1,000-year history of this amazing site. In this blog, I will reveal some of its more extraordinary roles, unveiling the hidden facets that continue to attract thousands of visitors every year.

Join me on a journey to uncover the lesser-known, yet equally intriguing identities of this iconic landmark.

Officially His Majesty’s Royal Palace and Fortress of the Tower of London - discover the Tower’s identity as more than just a stronghold, but rather its enduring role as a prison, at the same time being both grim, foreboding and opulent.

Officially His Majesty’s Royal Palace and Fortress of the Tower of London - discover the Tower’s identity as more than just a stronghold, but rather its enduring role as a humble yet resplendent abode.

Officially His Majesty’s Royal Palace and Fortress of the Tower of London, discover the fascination of the Tower, a historical fortress residing on the northern banks of the River Thames. Founded in the aftermath of the Norman Conquest of 1066, this castle stands as the ultimate symbol of the English Monarchy.

When we think of Medieval society, the images in our mind are of kings, knights, battlefields, and castles with magnificent halls for feasting. While food played an important role in the daily lives of people during this era, beverages were equally important. In fact, medieval beverages were more than just liquid refreshments, they were integral parts of daily life, culture, celebrations and medicine. Each sip carried with it a glimpse into society’s values and traditions.

Medieval society was a complex web of power, politics, and dynastic ambitions, and at the centre of it all was the royal court, comprising the monarch who held the reins of authority, as well as the nobles of the realm, and of course their ladies.

While queens and noblewomen fulfilled their roles as wives and mothers, there existed a fascinating group of women who wielded significant influence behind the scenes - the mistresses of the most important men in the kingdom, including the king himself. These enigmatic figures played an intriguing role in shaping medieval society, leaving a lasting mark on history as we know it.

Let us take a look at Joan, the “Fair Maid of Kent”. While she is celebrated for her captivating beauty and undeniable charm, it’s her tumultuous love life that truly steals the spotlight, a tale of three marriages, each one dripping with controversy and scandal.

For those of us who are passionate readers of historical fiction related to the Middle Ages, it can be challenging to reconcile our perceptions of historical figures when different authors, whom we respect greatly, paint them in contrasting lights. As we delve into the rich tapestry of medieval history, we must be prepared to navigate the tangle of subjective interpretations and artistic liberties taken by our favourite authors, in order to firmly plant each character in our imaginations.

Situated on the east bank of the river Medway, Rochester Castle once guarded the crossing on the major road from London to the coast.

The ruins of these impressive stone walls and the towering keep stand as a tangible reminder of its significance to the English crown. Witness to several key conflicts of the medieval period, its formidable defences and strategic location made it a vital stronghold throughout the Plantagenet Era.

Over the years, I have travelled with many different people, friends, family members, and also as part of a team. Have you ever wondered how some people just make travelling look so easy, from getting the best deals when planning their holiday to booking, packing, and flying (often through multiple time zones), pretty much with all aspects of travelling. It doesn’t matter if it is simply a relaxing weekend trip, or an epic non-stop multi-country adventure, whether it is the first day or the final destination of their journey, they never seem to be stressed, they are always well organised, and forever bright eyed and bushy tailed.

Kenilworth Castle is one of the greatest historical sites in the UK, a fine example of a semi-royal palace, teeming with extraordinary tales of famous and infamous historical figures like King John, Simon de Montfort, John of Gaunt and Henry V. This magnificent ruin has played an important historical role throughout the late Middle Ages and witnessed many pivotal events, including the Second Barons’ War and the Wars of the Roses.

In modern times we need look no further than social media to hear stories of royal scandal and gossip. During the Middle Ages, the sharing of these tall tales may have taken a little longer, but this, in no way lessened the impact on society. It doesn’t really matter whether the time period is Medieval or the 21st century, there is nothing people enjoy more than a tittle-tattle regarding murder, sex or corruption.

One of the most famous and widely spoken love stories of the Middle Ages, that of John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and Katherine Swynford, would even today, after over 500 years have its descendants sitting on the throne of England.

At the heart of the Sanctuary, under the rock, at the feet of Our Lady, every year for centuries, thousands of pilgrims have all reached their goal…to pray at the Chapel of Our Lady of Rocamadour, in which stands the revered statue of the Black Madonna.

Also called the Way of the Cross, The Stations of the Cross originated in the Middle Ages as a series of pictures or sculptures portraying scenes from the Passion of the Christ. You will often find these stations in order around a church nave or on a path, but they can also be placed in cemeteries, hospitals and as is the case with Rocamadour, on mountainsides or pilgrimage sites.

The legend of the sword Durandal has captured the imagination of many for centuries, given to the famed knight Roland by Charlemagne, king of the Franks, it was said to be both powerful and mystical. Embedded in the cliff face at Rocamadour in Southern France you will not be disappointed with this site of medieval pilgrimage

Made up of a series of religious buildings built around a central courtyard (parvis) are the Divine Sanctuaries. During the 13th century, at the height of the Middle Ages and Rocamadour’s glory, there would have been 19 churches, (seven of these were restored in the 19th century), all of which were the destination of the thousands of pilgrims who would visit Rocamadour each year.

The Middle Ages was definitely the golden age of pilgrimages, and there is no shortage of information on the numerous sacred sites that appealed to the pious and devoted. But what about the pilgrims themselves, who were they and why undertake such a holy journey?

Gaze in wonder at the stunning cliffside Medieval village of Rocamadour, a pilgrimage site of Saints and Royalty for almost 900 years.

Is this a case of misjudgment in the pages of history, based on one well-quoted phrase?

When John FitzGilbert broke faith with King Stephen, he knew full well what could happen. The king threatened to hang his 5-year-old son, who he was holding as a hostage, John is reported to have said “Hang him, I still have the hammers and the anvils with which to forge still more and better sons”

Was John FitzGilbert simply a man of his times, pragmatic and brutal? Was he a heartless and uncaring father, or was he instead a very clever and perceptive man who took a chance and played his cards right?