В Worcestershire на лошадях воссоздали побег Карла II спустя 375 лет

A horse ride will mark the 375th anniversary of King Charles II’s dramatic escape after the Battle of Worcester. Taking place on Sunday, August 30, members of the Worcestershire Cavalry will retrace part of Charles II’s historic flight on horseback, beginning at Boscobel House and Gardens—where the king famously hid in an oak tree to evade Parliamentarian troops. The ride is being organised in collaboration with English Heritage, the British Horse Society (BHS), and the South Staffordshire and District Bridleways Group. Julie Allman from the Worcestershire Cavalry said: "This is a wonderful opportunity to bring one of the most remarkable stories in British history to life. "Charles II’s escape was an extraordinary feat of courage, endurance and loyalty, and being able to recreate part of his journey on horseback, 375 years later, is a very special occasion." Covering approximately 10 miles, the route will pass Chillington Hall, home to the Royalist Giffard family, before returning to Boscobel by 1pm. The event aims to highlight both historical heritage and the modern need for safe routes for equestrians. The ride will include members of the Worcestershire Cavalry, descendants of members of Charles II’s original royal party, and representatives of the British Horse Society and English Heritage. Charles II began his escape following his defeat at the Battle of Worcester on September 3, 1651. With Parliamentarian forces searching for him, the 21-year-old king embarked on an extraordinary six-week journey across England before eventually escaping to France. His hiding at Boscobel House, including the famous episode in which he spent hours concealed in an oak tree, became one of the best-known stories of the Restoration. Members of the public are invited to Boscobel House and Gardens to watch the riders depart and explore the historic site. However, participation in the ride is by invitation only due to safety and logistical considerations.