Countering Sir William Waller’s advance towards Winchester, Sir Ralph Hopton’s Royalist army reached Alresford, to the northeast of Winchester, on 27th March 1644.
Tour Sunday 13th Apr 2025
Our first battlefield tour was an experience to remember, bringing together history enthusiasts for an insightful journey through the Battle of Cheriton.
An early start saw our group assemble at the Flowerpot Inn, where coffee and pastries provided a welcome start to the day. Before setting off, Julian Humphrys delivered an engaging introduction, setting the scene for the Civil War and the significance of the battle we were about to explore.
Under the morning sun, we gathered for a group photo before heading off on our walk. At the edge of the battlefield, Julian paused to give an overview, orienting us within the landscape that has remained largely unchanged since the battle took place. As we made our way along peaceful lanes and paths, he shared fascinating details about key moments from the conflict, supported by first hand sources from those who took part.
The weather held up beautifully, though a brief but heavy shower near the end of our walk added a dramatic touch to the experience! Back at the pub, we rounded off the day with an excellent lunch, enjoying great food and warm company in a welcoming setting.
A huge thank you to Julian for his expert guidance, and to everyone who joined us—your enthusiasm made the day even more special. Until next time, we look forward to more historic adventures together!
The Arrangements on the day for info
- 08:15. Those wishing to car share meet London Road Park and Ride bus shelter (free parking)
- 09:00. Otherwise arrive Flowerpots Inn, Brandy Mount, Cheriton, SO24 0QQ (https://www.theflowerpots.co.uk/ ). Free parking all day.
- 09:15 – 09:45. Battlefield AV presentation over coffee, croissants and pastries
- 09:45 – 13:15. The guided battlefield walk.
- 13:30 – 15:00. Optional Sunday lunch (a la carte – order and pay at the table on the day – see here for Sunday menu)
- 15:45. Return to Salisbury.
We will be walking along marked footpaths, farm tracks and minor roads. Bring stout walking shoes and in the case of inclement weather, waterproofs and a change of footwear.
Prices
The price will be £10 per head for members and £20 for non-members. The price includes coffee and pastries, an AV historical presentation and a guided 3 ½ hour Sunday morning stroll around Cheriton Battlefield. To reserve your place, full payment should be made at the monthly meeting of the Society in January, February or March. There will be a few last-minute places available on the day, but coffee and pastries may not be guaranteed. It is hoped that all participants will attend the optional Sunday lunch that follows the walk to ensure a most sociable society event.
The Battle of Cheriton Battlefield Walk with historian Julian Humphrys
Countering Sir William Waller’s advance towards Winchester, Sir Ralph Hopton’s Royalist army reached Alresford, to the northeast of Winchester, on 27th March 1644. Hopton deployed his troops on the downs south of Alresford, approximately one mile to the east of the village of Cheriton. But Hopton had been joined by reinforcements under the Earl of Forth and, as senior officer, it was he and not Hopton who took command of the Royalist army. Waller’s forces camped for the night close to Hinton Ampner, a short distance to the south. The battle of Cheriton was fought on the fields to the east of the village the following day. It was here that Waller finally halted the Royalist advance out of the southwest. The Royalist defeat thwarted Charles plans of an advance upon London and forced Hopton to retreat to Basing House with the bulk of the army, while the Earl of Forth returned to the Royalist capital at Oxford. In November Prince Rupert finally superseded him as commander of the King’s armies (courtesy of http://www.battlefieldstrust.com)
After graduating in history from Emmanuel College Cambridge, Julian Humphrys joined London’s National Army Museum where he curated exhibitions and was spokesperson to the media on British Army history. He moved on to organise English Heritage’s programme of guided tours and now leads a wide variety of historic tours and walks. Julian is the author of numerous books and articles on Britain’s military history. He is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, and Chair of the South-East Region of the Battlefields Trust