NEWBURY UNVEILS NEW BATTLEFIELD INTERPRETATION PANEL TO MARK HISTORIC ANNIVERSARY
On Sunday 20 September, a new interpretation panel was unveiled at Wash Common, marking 383 years since the First Battle of Newbury and celebrating the town’s significant place in English history.
The unveiling took place on Sunday 20 September 2026, exactly 383 years after the battle was fought on the surrounding fields during the English Civil War. Hosted by long-time Wash Common resident Dave Stubbs, the event brought together local representatives, historians and members of the community to mark the occasion and explore the events that shaped Newbury’s history.
The new panel forms part of a series of connected battlefield interpretation panels designed to help residents and visitors understand the historic events that took place in and around Newbury.
Mayor of Newbury, Cllr Jo Day, said, “Newbury has a fascinating and significant place in our nation’s history, and it is important that we continue to preserve and share these stories with residents and visitors alike. This new interpretation panel brings the events of the First Battle of Newbury to life, helping people connect with the history of Wash Common and understand the lasting impact of what happened here. I would like to thank everyone involved in making this project possible, particularly the Battlefield Trust and John Bolan for his generous sponsorship of the wonderful Lord Falkland painting.”
The First Battle of Newbury, fought on 20 September 1643, was a pivotal moment in the English Civil War. The battle saw Royalist forces attempt to dislodge the Parliamentary army from its position on the high ground of Wash Common. The fighting resulted in significant loss of life on both sides, including the death of Lucius Cary, Viscount Falkland, whose death remains one of the most poignant episodes of the battle.
The conflict played an important part in the wider struggle between King Charles I and Parliament, a period of upheaval that would ultimately help shape the development of parliamentary democracy.
The event included contributions from Simon Marsh of the Battlefield Trust, a partner in the interpretation project, before the Mayor of Newbury, Councillor Jo Day, officially unveiled the new panel.
A special feature of the interpretation panel is a striking new painting depicting Lord Falkland in his final moments. The artwork was generously sponsored by John Bolan, whose contribution has helped bring this significant moment in Newbury’s history to life.
Speaking at the event, Dave Stubbs reflected on his long-standing connection to Wash Common and the importance of preserving and sharing the area’s history with future generations.
He highlighted the significance of the First Battle of Newbury, describing how the Parliamentary cause gained credibility following the battle and how the events of the Civil War contributed to the development of the parliamentary democracy we know today.
