Mercia holds a dominant position among the Anglo-Saxon kingdoms of the Heptarchy.

Ater its king, Ceolwulf, had been overthrown in 823, Beornwulf, the son of a noble, had become king. (The Mercians had conquered Powys at about this time, but it is unclear which of the two kings was ruling when it occurred.

Scholars have argued that the known record suggests that Beornwulf was more vigorous and likely to wage such a campaign than Ceolwulf, and that the conquest of Powys may have therefore been accomplished by Beornwulf at the beginning of his rule.)

Soon after assuming the kingship, Beornwulf had rebuilt the Abbey of St. Peter, the future Gloucester Cathedral.

He presides in 824 and 825 over two synods at Clofesho (an unknown location believed to be near London) with archbishop Wulfred of Canterbury.