From the foundation of its great abbey in the early eighth century, Evesham developed as the abbey grew in splendour. Though the Dissolution brought the abbey's ruin, its Bell Tower still survives and its Almonry now houses a museum. The town's place in national history was secured by the Battle of Evesham in 1265, in which Simon de Montfort died leading the barons of England against Henry III's eldest son. In more peaceful days Evesham has been renowned for its riverside and visitors flocked here to sail or take an excursion on one of its steamers.