It was a truly beautiful venue, located in the glorious Vale of White Horse, on the Thames border between Wessex and Mercia. Two miles to the north was the town of Abingdon with its magnificent old abbey, and seven miles to the south-east stood Alfred’s own vill at Wantage. &nbs...
Spring ploughing had been done soon after the thaws of early March, and now the corn was being sown. It had been a long day and by the time he reached his bed he could barely keep his eyes open. The hall was warm from the remains of the hearthfire and he soon fell into a deep slumber.  ...