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The 1535 Progress: Ewelme Manor, Oxfordshire

After staying at Reading Abbey, the second stop of Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn’s 1535 progress was Ewelme Manor. While staying there Henry VIII asked for the property to be returned to the crown. Ewelme once more became a royal residence and was used by the king as a lesser house, a place where he retreated for greater privacy with a select group of friends while on hunting trips.

The 1535 Progress: Reading Abbey, Berkshire
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The 1535 Progress: Reading Abbey, Berkshire

On 8 July 1535, Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn left Windsor Castle bound for Reading Abbey. The twelfth century monastery was founded by William the Conqueror’s youngest son, Henry I, and was the first stop on a summer progress to the West Country and Hampshire, and at only a day’s ride away from Windsor, it was a very convenient staging post. 

Close up view of Katherine Parr's tomb at Sudeley Castle.
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KATHERINE PARR, QUEEN OF ENGLAND

Name and Title: Katherine Parr (she signed her letters Kateryn Parr), Queen of England.

Born: Blackfriars, London, c.1512.

Died: 5 September 1548.

Buried: Sudeley Castle Chapel, Winchcombe, Gloucestershire.

In this blog we explore the life, death and burial of Queen Katherine Parr…

Exterior of Otley Hall and chimneys.
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The History of Otley Hall: Intriguing Tales of Spectre & Adventure

In this episode, I head to the county of Suffolk to visit Otley Hall. A house of enormous historical significance, the part-timber, part-brick building is a traditional Tudor design and retains many original features.

I’m joined by Louisa Flavell, who moved to Otley Hall in 2020 and is committed to bringing this stunning Tudor building back to its former glory.

Exterior of the Parliament Rooms.
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Tudor Gloucester Cathedral

Gloucester Cathedral witnessed the coronation of the young Henry III in 1216 and a visit from Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn in 1535. The current cathedral, as we know it today, was predominantly built between the eleventh and fifteenth centuries. It is known for its glorious Gothic architecture, tombs and the finest cloisters in the country.

The cathedral is also famous for its stunning medieval stained glass windows.

3-Day Itinerary: London
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3-Day Itinerary: London

If you are visiting London, have three days to spend, and are wondering about some of the fascinating Tudor places you might explore, then look no further! I have curated some of my personal favourite locations to uncover.

While the first two days cover off what I call ‘the BIG three’ must-see locations. However, day three will bring some respite from the crowds. While staying in central London, I am taking you further afield to explore some of my favourite and certainly less often visited Tudor-themed places. However, if you find yourself with more time and may be looking for extra extra inspiration, you can check out my 5-day London guide, which builds on the three days outlined here. Also, I am including a link to download my ‘Tudor London Made Easy Guide’. This highlights 17 locations in London with links to Tudor history.

2-Day Itinerary: London
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2-Day Itinerary: London

If you are visiting London but only have two days to spare and you are wondering about some of the must-see Tudor places in London to visit, then look no further! Here are my recommendations for my ‘BIG three’ must-see locations: Westminster Abbey and Hall, The Tower of London and Hampton Court Palace. However, if you need extra inspiration for more places to visit, or you are looking to substitute in a different location, then I am including a link to download my ‘Tudor London Made Easy Guide’. This highlights 17 locations in London with links to Tudor history.

In the meantime, let’s do some immersive time travelling!