Welcome to Riding Through History
Every battlefield, memorial and forgotten road has a story to tell.
Riding Through History follows my journeys across Europe by motorcycle, visiting the places where history was made. Drawing on my military background and a lifelong passion for research, I explore famous battlefields, hidden memorials and the people whose courage shaped our world.
This isn't simply about dates and battles. It's about standing where history happened, understanding the events, and helping to keep those stories alive for future generations.
The Journey
Follow the complete route of this expedition from Portsmouth to Morocco and back through Spain and France. Each stop has its own story, photographs and film.
The Lines of Torres Vedras
Built between 1809 and 1810 under the direction of the Duke of Wellington, the Lines of Torres Vedras were one of the greatest defensive systems ever constructed. More than 150 forts, redoubts and artillery positions stretched for almost 80 kilometres north of Lisbon. Hidden from the French until the last moment, they helped stop Marshal Masséna's invasion of Portugal and ultimately changed the course of the Peninsular War.
Take a closer look at Fort St. Vincent, one of the best-preserved forts in the Lines of Torres Vedras.
Evora
Leaving the Lines of Torres Vedras behind, my journey continued to the historic city of Évora. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Évora has witnessed more than two thousand years of history, from the Romans and Moors to Portugal's Age of Discovery.
Walking its cobbled streets, visiting the Roman Temple, cathedral and ancient city walls, it's easy to understand why Évora is regarded as one of Portugal's finest historic cities and an essential stop on any journey through the country's past.