Medieval (974–1485)
We hold records from as far back as the 10th century. They include foundational documents from our legal system and material charting the aftermath of the Norman Conquest through to decades of turmoil during the Wars of the Roses.
Medieval (974–1485) highlights in pictures
Stories from the collection
The story of Ravenser Odd
Read about Ravenser Odd
Ravenser Odd was a short-lived island in the mouth of the River Humber. It rose from the sea in the early 13th century and had sunk beneath the waves by 1360.
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Revealing the (corrupt) record in 14th-century Ireland
In 1325, officials found suspicious mistakes in the account of the former treasurer of Ireland and hauled him through the courts. What did they uncover?
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List of immigrant Londoners from 1483
This 15th-century list of ‘alien’ residents, gathered for tax purposes, gives us a remarkable insight into London’s medieval immigrant population.
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List of people summoned to the 1265 Parliament
This document records the first time that citizens outside of the elites were invited to join an English parliament – without being asked to support new taxes.
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A medieval Irish roll with hidden grievances
This roll provides a glimpse into how medieval Ireland was governed, but today plays a starring role in the development of scientific methodologies.
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An unusual royal gift to the poet Geoffrey Chaucer
How do you reward a medieval poet? This document granted the author of the Canterbury Tales an unusual royal gift: a daily allowance of wine.
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A medieval cold and flu remedy
Stale ale, ground nutmeg and mustard seeds – would you try these medieval cures for headaches and congestion? They give surprising insights into global trade.
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The Treason Act
The Treason Act defined the crime of ‘high treason’ in law for the first time. It is one of the oldest pieces of legislation still on the statute book today.
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Richard III
Through documents held at The National Archives, we can piece together a great deal about the life and reign one of Britain's most infamous medieval monarchs.