What was life like in medieval times?

It was one of the most turbulent and transformative periods in history. But what was life like for ordinary people in the Middle Ages? read more

The life of Lords and Nobles centred around their castles or Manors or fighting for their liege lord or King during times of war. Life in a Medieval Castle or Village Discover what life was like living in a castle. Banquets formed the chief indoor entertainment. read more

In the early Middle Ages, under the feudal system, the life of a serf was hard. Even in the later Middle Ages, the medieval peasant's life was hard and the work back-breaking. It followed the seasons – ploughing in autumn, sowing in spring, harvesting in August. read more

The lifestyle of peasants in Medieval England was extremely hard and harsh. Many worked as farmers in fields owned by the lords and their lives were controlled by the farming year. Certain jobs had to be done at certain times of the year. Their lives were harsh but there were few rebellions due to a harsh system of law and order. read more

In one word: unpredictable. People lived a lot closer to the land than we do, and a bad harvest meant everyone went hungry. Disease was a constant concern, and could hit anyone. read more