The date is January 1199. Richard is relaxing in his chambers in France when the news arrives that someone wants to speak to him. It appears he is nominated for the Award of Best King.

His nickname was Coeur de Lion, the Lionheart. Whilst born in England, he was essentially French and didn't speak English very well. His Brother John was King after him. The stories of William Longchamp being accosted on a beach by an amorous fisherman are true. He was obsessed with going on crusade to the Holy Land and it is believed he would have sold London had he been able to find a buyer.

The Castle of Impudence is real as is the stone throwing machine and the rewards he gave his soldiers. He did indeed order all three thousands hostages to be killed.  The story of him being ill and picking off enemies with a crossbow lying down is real. As is the fact he was 6ft 5. He did arrange for his sister's release and invented the mategriffon. He was indeed captured in a house of prostitutes and was put in prison. England had to raise the ransom money. He was more of a womanizer even though there are rumours he was gay. But he didn't have any kids.

He did add the three lions to the great seal (which is where we get our 'Three Lions' from) and had a sword called Excalibur.  And he really did spend only about six months in England for his entire ten year reign.

If you want to find out more about Richard, check out the sources and places below:

The Plantagenets: The Kings Who Made England - Dan Jones

Penguin Monarchs Series: Richard I - Thomas Asbridge

Richard the Lionheart: The Crusader King of England - W.B Bartlett

The English Monarchs Series: Richard I - John Gillingham