King John – detail from his funerary effigy in Worcester Cathedral. Image copyright the Dean and Chapter of Worcester Cathedral (UK)

As we move into Advent, many of us turn our minds to planning for the forthcoming Christmas festivities. There’s much to do; food to order and prepare, the house to tidy and decorate, family and friends to consider, not least the thorny question of just what to wear! It was ever thus.

In 1214 (800 years ago, to the year) King John’s mind was similarly engaged. That year he held his Christmas Court in Worcester.

In my latest blog for Worcester Cathedral Library I tell the story of King John’s visit to the city, the preparations he made, the clothes he wore, and not least the unrest and troubles he endured.

To read the blog, and discover more about this fascinating monarch, click here – King John’s Christmas Court