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Join Stephen Drake-Jones, historian, professor and author as we celebrate this defining moment in Wellington's career.  A special tour is being planned for July 27th and 28th, but we have already led several private tours commemorating this event. 

If you are interested in joining our public tour or would like us to tailor one to your particular interests, please click here to email our Chairman, Stephen Drake-Jones directly.

The battle of Talavera was fought on the 27th & 28th July, 1809.  Marshal Victor's rapid advance and crossing over the Alberche surprised the British rearguard which suffered heavy casualties and Sir Arthur Wellesley, the Commander, was almost captured at Casa Salinas. Covered by cavalry the British retreated to their prepared ground running north while the Spaniards held the town. A night attack by the French was repulsed as was their major efforts on the 28th. The French withdrew during the night of the 28th and this victory brought Sir Arthur the title 'Wellington' from a grateful House of Parliament.

Comments from recent Peninsular War Tours

A proper letter of thanks is in the post, but may I thank you for a fantastic tour yesterday. You certainly know your stuff and your many anecdotes brought alive what is an excellent battlefield study.

Lt.Col Henry Ricketts CO 75 Engr Regt 75 Engineer Regiment,
Peninsular Barracks, O'Leary Street,
WARRINGTON, WA2 7QS

 

We really enjoyed our visit to Talavera and Salamanca. I spoke at the Eton Wellington Society and set out some of my new found knowledge on this great battle.

Major-General Simon Mayall Chief of the Staff

 

On behalf of the officers present I want to say a huge thank you for your brilliant three day tour to Talavera, Ciudad Rodrigo, Fuentes and Salamanca.

Colonel David 'Spock' Johnson. S.H.A.P.E

 

I hear I have already been beaten to it, but I wanted to just say a huge thank you on behalf of both myself and the rest of the 75 Engr Regt Officers who attended your tour this weekend.  I thought it was pitched perfectly and learnt a lot from the experience.

I will pass my tour template on to my other half with a very strong

recommendation for you as guide.   )

Captain Jac Burgess Royal Engineers

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