New for 2026

When the English Civil War began in August 1642, the City of York had chosen to support Charles I (Royalist).  Some from surrounding villages instead chose to fight for Parliament (Parliamentarians) and some Scots also came to support Parliament (Covenanters).

By 1644 is was becoming clearer that York would have to defend itself against the besiegers and prepared for the ultimate Siege which was fought between 22 April and 16 July 1644.

These talks look at each of the 85 days of the Siege, as well as some of the preparations in the months prior and the final surrender on 16 July 1644.

Due to the amount of information the research has produced there are 6 individual talks.  Please choose which aspect of the siege you are particularly interested in when booking – each session will be approx. 1 hour in length.

Session 1: Preparation Days – starting in January 1644 we look at some of the events leading up to the start of the Siege of York and how the city prepared the walled defences and set up sconces.

Session 2: Days 1 – 24 (22 April-15 May) – The Parliamentarians and Covenanters surround the city, burning the suburbs and establishing encampments.

Session 3: Days 25 – 51 (16 May-11 June) – Includes Prince Rupert march to York & pseudo surrender.

Session 4: Days 52 – 70 (12-30 June) – Includes pseudo surrender continues, St. Mary’s Tower Damaged by Mine and attack on King’s Manor.

Session 5: Days 71 & 72 (1 & 2 July) – Battle of Marston Moor

Session 6: Days 73 – 86 (3-16 July) – Includes retreat of Royalist Generals and final surrender.