 Inspired by the sermons of the radical cleric John Ball , and led by Wat Tyler , a contingent of Kentish rebels advanced on London . They were met at Blackheath by representatives of the royal government , who unsuccessfully attempted to persuade them to return home . King Richard II , then aged 14 , retreated to the safety of the Tower of London , but most of the royal forces were abroad or in northern England . On 13 June , the rebels entered London and , joined by many local townsfolk , attacked the gaols , destroyed the Savoy Palace , set fire to law books and buildings in the Temple , and killed anyone associated with the royal government . The following day , Richard met the rebels at Mile End and acceded to most of their demands , including the abolition of serfdom . Meanwhile , rebels entered the Tower of London , killing the Lord Chancellor and the Lord High Treasurer , whom they found inside . 
