| Where: | Westonzoyland, Somerset at the Battlefield Monument at Bussex Rhyne |
| When: | 6th July |
| Time: | 5pm |
The Battle of Sedgemoor took place on the 6th July 1685 between the forces of King James II and those of the Duke of Monmouth, the eldest son of the late King Charles II. Monmouth was barred from inheriting the throne because of his illegitimacy, but was supported in his claim by Protestants who feared the Catholicism of Charles’ brother King James and wished to depose him. The last pitched battle fought upon English soil took place in the early hours of 6th July and the crown forces were victorious, crushing the poorly armed and trained rebels; many more were executed in the aftermath including Monmouth himself, while others were transported to labour in the West Indies. The severity of the punishments meted out to the survivors led to the trials under the notorious Judge Jeffreys being dubbed the Bloody Assizes. St Mary’s Church at Westonzoyland was used as a prison for some of the rebels in the aftermath of the battle and today houses the Battle of Sedgemoor Visitors Centre in the South Aisle. On the anniversary of the battle, a service is held at the commemorative monument on the battlefield in memory of the fallen.
Helpful Hints
In 2025 it should be on Sunday 6th July. The service usually takes place on 6th regardless of the day of the week it falls upon and is organised by the Church.
Click here for St Mary’s Church: https://www.westonzoylandchurch.co.uk
Click here for the Zoyland Heritage Fund with lots of information on the battle : https://www.zoylandheritage.co.uk/index.htm
Dear Averil and Liz,
An excellent presentation of a site well worth the visit. And I believe that schools can arrange for students to get a guided tour of the Battlefield and the display inside St Mary’s.
I must pass this on to several friends and family members.
Thank you.
Many thanks Ron,
It’s a worthy addition to the site and to my “to-do” list!
Best wishes,
Averil