Let me introduce you to one of the most beguiling cities of Tudor England: Calais. In the first half of the sixteenth century, Calais was the only jewel of English sovereignty that remained as part of the French mainland. It was a remnant of the vast empire of England’s Plantagenet dynasty; a dynasty that had …
There’s nothing as intriguing as an unfinished painting. That’s what I found out during my recent conversation with Charlotte Bolland from the National Portrait Gallery. For starters what happened to the painter? Why was it never finished? As it turns out, there is a dramatic possibility that might explain that mystery. However, in addition, an …
On the anniversary of the birth of Prince Edward, later Edward VI of England, we visit the lost royal palace of Elsyng, in Enfield, which stood as witness to one of the most critical moments in the young boy’s life. For it was at Elsyng that alongside his sister, Elizabeth, the young Prince learnt of …
Occasionally, an incredible discovery of historic significance occurs. Such is the case with the Bacton Altar Cloth, now believed to be part of a lost dress from Elizabeth I’s wardrobe. This item is not just rare – it is unique. For although accessories belonging to Elizabeth have survived, no single item of her clothing is …
History is full of legends. One such story revolves around the tale of what happened to Sir Henry Norris’ (sometimes called ‘Norreys’) severed head after he was executed on Tower Hill on 17 May 1536. The story goes that his family managed to retrieve it, and while Sir Henry’s body was buried in the grounds …