For such an early
battle, Evesham is relatively well understood, with several detailed
contemporary accounts. The battlefield itself also lies within a
restricted in area clearly defined by very distinctive terrain features,
including the river Avon (see map above).
Although some parts of the battlefield cannot at present be accessed one
can gain a reasonably good feel for the character of the terrain and the
possible positioning of the forces.
Currently, through
the Forestry Commission grants scheme, footpath access has been provided,
from a car park accessed from The Squires, to the Leicester Tower and
thence along, through the woodland on the slopes of the valley side to the
Obelisk. To complement this excellent walk, the Simon de Montfort Society,
with the support of Wychavon District Council, is currently preparing a
proposal for the development of a battlefield trail with interpretation
panels, which it is hoped will provide a link across land not currently
accessible, to the Battle Well and then across to the Obelisk, would
provide an excellent circular walk of the battlefield.
The town is well
organised for the tourist. There are several car parks close to
the centre of the town and various pubs,
cafes and other facilities. There is also plenty of information, some free
and others for sale, including town maps, town trail etc available from
the Tourist Information Centre in the Almonry Heritage
centre. This includes a leaflet on the battle of Evesham produced
by the Vale of Evesham Civic Society and the Simon de Montfort Society.
