Adapted from Bernard Cornwall's Saxon Stories novels, Netflix's The Last Kingdom is a medieval action-drama set in war-torn England. However, without a proper map of the time, understanding the series can be challenging. Loosely based on the historical figure Uhtred of Bebbanburg, The Last Kingdom chronicles Uhtred's fight against the invading Danes and his quest to regain his homeland from his usurper uncle. Uhtred, who was originally captured by the Danes as a child but later adopted by them, emerges as a capable leader.
In addition to Uhtred's storyline, the series delves into the various factions at play during this turbulent period in English history, including the Viking antagonists. The series, featuring 46 episodes, concluded with Seven Kings Must Die earlier this year. Throughout its entire run, the series depicted more than 20 different locations, while the book series mentioned over 40. To create the following maps, historical 9th century maps of England were consulted and the locations mentioned in the series were cross-referenced with their modern-day equivalents (displayed in parentheses). The borders depicted on the maps are an approximation based on historical references.
23 Bebbanburg, English Northumbria (Bamburgh)
The home and birthright of
22 Eofweric, Danish Northumbria
, Bebbanburg, hold significant importance for22 Eofweric, Danish Northumbria
throughout the series. After being captured by the Danes and witnessing the death of his father in battle,22 Eofweric, Danish Northumbria
's uncle, Ælfric, seizes the opportunity to seize the throne and claim Bebbanburg for himself. When Ælfric discovers that22 Eofweric, Danish Northumbria
has survived, he becomes a major obstacle in22 Eofweric, Danish Northumbria
's journey to reclaim his rightful inheritance, even attempting to kill him. Despite22 Eofweric, Danish Northumbria
's strong desire to return to Bebbanburg, his exceptional military skills and noble lineage deeply entangle him in the escalating conflict between the Danes and the Saxons. Interestingly, the modern-day Bamburg still boasts an impressive castle, which was even featured in the filming of some of The Last Kingdom's epic battles.
Kicking off the series and setting the stage for Uhtred's defining motivations, Eofweric takes center stage in season 1, episode 1 with the gripping Siege of Eofweric. With Uhtred's father succumbing to the formidable Danish shield wall, Uhtred finds himself orphaned and taken in by the invading Danes. Alongside him is Brida, who will later become Ragnar's wife and then widow. Uhtred's loyalty to the Danes will constantly be tested as he rises within the ranks of King Alfred's Wessex, complicating his ultimate objective of recapturing his ancestral home, Bebbanburg. Meanwhile, Brida remains among the Danes, straining her own bond with Uhtred.
21 Æsc's Hill, English Mercia
Also known as Ashes Hill, Æsc's Hill serves as the central location for the Battle of Ashdown in season 1, episode 2. Upon discovering the Danes' intention to launch an attack on Wintanceaster (Winchester), Uhtred, in turn, shares this information with King Alfred. Recognizing Uhtred's immense value, King Alfred swiftly leads the Wessex army northward to intercept the encroaching Danes, ultimately resulting in the fierce Battle of Ashdown. Uhtred's unique upbringing among the Danes and his legitimate right to Bebbanburg prove instrumental in deciphering the enemy's strategies, providing invaluable assistance to the burgeoning Kingdom of the Anglo-Saxons. As a result, Alfred begins to witness Uhtred's true potential, solidifying his vision of a unified England.
20 Wintanceaster, Wessex (Winchester)
Wintanceaster, the seat of power in Wessex and the residence of King Alfred, plays a crucial role in the series, serving as a significant political hub and witnessing various battles. In season 1, episode 7, the Danes, led by Guthrum and Ragnar the Younger, lay siege to Wintanceaster, forcing King Alfred to narrowly escape to the Somerset marshlands. Tragically, in season 3, Alfred succumbs to a mysterious illness upon his return to Wintanceaster. Later, in season 4, episode 9, the city falls victim to a surprise attack by Sigtryggr. However, after Uhtred successfully negotiates peace between the Danes and Saxons, Wintanceaster is reclaimed by the joint forces of Mercia and Wessex.
19 Cumbraland
18 Dunholm, English Northumbria (Durham)
Cumbraland, the residence of Guthred, the titular King of Northumbria, serves as the starting point for Uhtred's strategic plan to reclaim his ancestral home of Bebbanburg. By forming a marital alliance with Guthred's sister, Gisela, Uhtred swiftly ingratiates himself into the political ambitions of Guthred. Together, they unite against their mutual foe, Kjartan the Cruel, and Uhtred is bestowed with the necessary military might to ultimately besiege Kjartan and liberate Thyra in the epic Battle of Dunholm. Regrettably, the fragile bond between Guthred and Uhtred fractures before the battle begins, as Guthred secretly contemplates forming an alliance with Uhtred's uncle. Despite Guthred's yearning for forgiveness and reconciliation, he vanishes indefinitely after season 2, episode 4.
In season 2, episode 4, Dunholm faces an attack as Uhtred and Ragnar seek revenge against Jarl Kjartan. Kjartan the Cruel had previously escalated his conflict with Uhtred's foster family, resulting in the death of numerous members of Earl Ragnar's household and the abduction of Earl Ragnar's daughter Thyra on her wedding night. This horrific act not only angers the surviving family members but also motivates Uhtred to gather an army with the help of his tenuous friendship with King Guthred. With this army, Uhtred finally has the opportunity to avenge Kjartan's actions and rescue his foster sister Thyra. The present-day city of Durham, known for its numerous cathedrals, was established roughly a century after the events of The Last Kingdom.
17 Coccham, English Mercia (Cookham)
16 Lundene, Wessex (London)
Coccham, the residence granted to Uhtred by King Alfred of Wessex, is featured in season 2, episode 5. It is the setting where Uhtred confronts Æthelwold, who reveals a prophecy given to him by the supposedly deceased Bjorn. Æthelwold strongly believes in the prophecy and warns Uhtred about their intertwined destinies. Later, during King Alfred's visit, Uhtred clashes with the King over the most effective approach to handle the warring Danes, particularly under the leadership of Lord Æthelstan. Uhtred fears that under capable rule, the Danes could become a formidable military force.
Lundene, the city straddling the border of Wessex and East Anglia, faced a devastating attack by the Danes during the intense Siege of Lundene in season 2, episode 6. Led by the cunning Dane brothers Erik, Sigefrid, and Hæsten, the siege proved to be a triumphant strategy as it successfully enticed Wessex's army into a vulnerable position. Exploiting the siege as a clever trap for Æthelred's forces, the Danes managed to clandestinely navigate past the unsuspecting Wessex army and apprehend Æthelflæd, thereby subjecting Æthelred to utter humiliation. Erik's ultimate ambition lies in using the captured Æthelflæd as a bargaining chip, seeking a substantial ransom from Wessex to finance an opulent army.
15 Beamfleot, Guthrum Kingdom (Benfleet)
With its strategic location near Lundene, Beamfleot serves as the main base for Hæsten, Erik, and Sigefrid's schemes to overthrow King Æthelstan and their ambitious plot to capture Princess Æthelflæd in season 2, episode 5. In the Battle of Beamfleot in season 2, episode 8, Uhtred successfully rescues Æthelflæd from the brothers, leading to Sigefrid's unfortunate murder of Erik. Later, in season 3, episode 5, Uhtred returns to the Danish stronghold to protect Skade from Hæsten and emerges victorious in a second battle with the assistance of King Edward's army. However, despite the triumph, Hæsten manages to escape with Skade.
14 Fearnham, Wessex (Farnham)
Fearnham, featured in Season 3, episode 1, serves as the backdrop for the Battle of Fearnham, where Uhtred and the Saxon forces successfully repel the Danes led by Bloodhair. Employing multiple shield walls, the combined armies of Wessex and Mercia skillfully defeat the Danes. In his hurry, Bloodhair abandons his lover Skade, leaving her deeply saddened. Upon returning home, Uhtred learns that his wife has passed away shortly after giving birth to their son, Young Uhtred. This sets the stage for the tumultuous relationship between Uhtred and Skade, while also establishing Bloodhair as a constant antagonist throughout the season.
13 Saltwic, Mercia (Droitwich Spa)
Similar to Wintanceaster and other locations, Saltwic primarily serves as the backdrop for a significant portion of the exposition and political maneuverings in The Last Kingdom. Specifically, Saltwic is the residence of the frequently contentious siblings Æthelred and Æthelflæd, and it makes its first appearance in season 3, episode 3. As Uhtred frequently returns to Saltwic, it becomes a central hub for much of the Mercian turmoil showcased in seasons 3 and 4. Fortunately, despite the numerous Danish campaigns into the heartland of Mercia, the village of Saltwic remains unconquered. The ultimate on-screen appearance of Saltwic occurs in season 4, episode 5.
12 Legaceaster, English Mercia (Leicester)
In Season 3, episode 6, Brida and Uhtred embark on a journey to Legaceaster in search of Storri. Brida is desperate to rescue her deceased husband from eternal damnation in Niflheim and hopes that the seer can provide a solution. Although Storri is hesitant, Uhtred compels him to assist them. During their quest, Uhtred uncovers a ritual that can restore Ragnar's spirit to Valhalla and redeem himself for his betrayal. The process involves wetting a blade with Ragnar's blood and using it to bring an end to Æthelwold's life. Upon obtaining this vital information, Brida swiftly strangles and eliminates Storri, thereby informing Ragnar that breaking the curse necessitates the death of the sorcerer without shedding any blood.
11 Crowland, Danish Mercia
The heart of Danelaw, Crowland, is explored by Uhtred, Finan, and Osferth in season 3, episode 7. They receive what appears to be a warm reception, but Uhtred reveals that their presence will soon be revealed to Cnut. Cnut permits Bloodhair and Hæsten to engage in a deadly battle, unaware that Skade has already poisoned Bloodhair. Consequently, Cnut is led away from the camp, believing Uhtred to be captured. Meanwhile, Uhtred and his companions discreetly infiltrate the Danes' encampment during the cover of night and successfully rescue Skade. With Skade secured, Uhtred's party swiftly escapes by boat, leaving behind a relatively small number of casualties.
10 Aegelesburg, English Mercia (Aylesbury)
The Sack of Aegelesburg, which took place during the Danish invasion of Mercia in season 4, is a significant event. In episode 2 of the season, Cnut launches an attack on Aegelesburg under the assumption that Lord Æthelred would be present. However, it turns out that Æthelred was actually absent from Mercia at the time of the invasion. This proves to be one of Cnut's initial missteps during his campaign through Mercia. Ironically, Æthelred is off raiding the Danish territory of East Anglia, mistakenly believing that Cnut's forces are in Ireland and unable to retaliate. While Æthelred is busy attacking farms and small villages in East Anglia, Cnut's forces are able to swiftly pass through Mercia and head straight for King Edward.
9 Grimsby, Danish Mercia
Visited by Uhtred, Young Uhtred, Beocca, Finan, Osferth, and Sihtric in season 4, episode 2, Grimsby stands out as the place where they come across two morally corrupt monks during their journey to Bebbanburg. Uhtred, after observing the monks, directs Young Uhtred to integrate himself among them, pretending to share their Christian beliefs. Despite initial hesitation, Young Uhtred ultimately agrees and accompanies the monks along the coastal roads towards Bebbanburg. Upon reaching their destination, Young Uhtred successfully signals his father's forces, playing a crucial role in the Siege of Bebbanburg. Sadly, Uhtred's cousin Wihtgar discovers the siege and seizes the opportunity to assassinate his father Ælfric.
8 Tamworth, English Mercia
Prior to The Battle of Tettenhall, Tamworth does little more than contribute another burnt village to the Danes' tally as they continue their invasion of Mercia. As Bjorgulf returns to Cnut, proudly presenting the head of a supposed deceased resident of Tamworth, it becomes evident that the Danes are ruthlessly prepared for their ongoing incursion. With Tettenhall bracing for the impending Danish horde, Tamworth serves as their operations base, empowering Cnut to seek any possible advantage for the upcoming battle. By assigning Bjorgulf the task of locating and capturing Æthelflæd, Cnut endeavors to utilize the political detainee as a means to coerce the Saxons into surrendering.
7 Tettenhall, English Mercia (Tettenhall)
6 Wollerton, English Mercia (Wollerton)
Tettenhall, featured in season 4, episode 4, gained its fame through the Battle of Tettenhall. Uhtred and his comrades fought valiantly alongside King Hywel's army, devising a brilliant strategy to ensnare the Danes. With a camouflaged pit, Uhtred baited the Danes, providing a significant advantage to the Welsh forces and inflicting major damage upon Cnut's army. Amidst the chaos of the fierce battle, Jackdaw made a treacherous move to capture Æthelflæd, only to meet a fatal end at the hands of Edward. The conflict spilled over into the encompassing woods, leading to an unexpected face-off between Cnut and Uhtred. In a surprising twist, Brida enacted her revenge and slayed Cnut. As a result, the triumphant Welsh army succeeded in capturing Brida.
Located in the heart of Mercia south of Ceaster (Cheshire), Wollerton stands as one of the numerous destinations that Uhtred, Finan, Osferth, Sihtric, Ælfwynn, Æthelstan, and Young Uhtred come across during their expedition to Ceaster in the sixth episode of the fourth season. With a devastating illness wreaking havoc in Mercia and Ælfwynn displaying symptoms of the sickness herself, Wollerton serves as a much-needed retreat for the group. Although still a small village in present times, Wollerton has defied the passage of time for over a thousand years. Positioned alongside the A53 road, the notable highlight of Wollerton today remains the four-acre Wollerton Old Hall Garden, established during the 16th century.
5 Saint Millburga's Priory, English Mercia (Wenlock Priory)
Featured in season 4, episode 6, is Saint Millburga's Priory, located south of Wollerton and just east of Tettenhall. Saint Millburga's Priory, also known as Wenloca, is where Æthelflæd and Aldhelm inform Uhtred that they are waiting for him. Concerned about encountering more sick people on their way to Ceaster, Uhtred decides to lead his party through Saint Millburga's Priory. However, upon smelling the stench of burning bodies nearby, Æthelflæd and Aldhelm become frightened and decide to leave the priory, hoping to meet Uhtred in Ceaster instead. Pursued relentlessly and with Ælfwynn's condition deteriorating, Uhtred and his companions eventually find refuge in Wollerton, where they rest and regroup.
4 Thatchum, English Mercia
In season 4, episode 9 of the show, Thatcham is portrayed as a location north of Wintanceaster (Winchester) where Uhtred and his companions are headed towards the capital of Wessex. Little did they know, Wintanceaster had already been sacked by the Danes. During an unexpected ambush by Hæsten, Eadith manages to hide nearby. Uhtred, Osferth, Finan, Sihtric, and Pyrlig are captured and suspended upside down from a tree, as a form of prolonged execution by Hæsten's men. Fortunately, Eadith is able to divert the attention of the Danes, even killing one of them, before returning to free Uhtred and the others. Realizing the gravity of the situation, Uhtred and his companions journey south to Wintanceaster.