History

The Fifteen Princesses of Orange: Anna of Egmont

By
2nd November 2015
Anna of Egmont was born around March 1533 as the daughter of Maximilian van Egmont and Françoise de Lannoy. She would turn out to be their only child and thus heiress to her father’s estates. Her father was an ally of Charles V, Holy Roman Emperor, and he was often away on campaign. Anna grew up in the world that was centered around the Brussels Court of the Regent Mary of Hungary. She…
Read more
Palaces & Buildings

The Ghosts of Windsor Castle

By
31st October 2015
It is The Queen’s weekend home and is apparently her favourite royal residence. But did you know that Windsor Castle is also the home of many royals from years and centuries gone by. In this piece we explore the ghostly goings on at Windsor Castle and just who haunts the…
FeaturesHistory

Monarchy Rules: A look at King Henry VIII

By
27th October 2015
One of Britain’s most colourful King’s and is easily most well known- but not for his heart-warming personality. Henry VIII most extraordinary claim to fame would be six wives and their unfortunate fates. Henry accomplished a lot more in his time as King, like his changes to the English Constitution and separation from the Church of England. Born the 28 June 1491, King Henry ascended…
Read more
History

Tales of the Tower: Lady Jane Grey

By
25th October 2015
She is more popularly known as the ‘Nine Days Queen’ though is also remembered for her untimely demise within the walls of the Tower of London. Lady Jane Grey short-lived reign began on 10th July 1553 following the death of King Edward VI, who had personally named Lady Jane Grey as his successor in the ‘Devise for the Succession’. Though Jane became Queen, the widespread support of Mary…
Read more
History

The common illness that killed a Queen

By
24th October 2015
In the early autumn days of 1537, King Henry VIII was celebrating as his court welcomed a prince. His longed for son and heir, Edward, had been born on October 12th at Hampton Court Palace to widespread rejoicing.  Preparations were in full swing for an elaborate…
Palaces & Buildings

Queen Mother’s Scottish retreat haunted by The Green Lady

By
22nd October 2015
The Castle of Mey is perhaps best known as the holiday home of Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother, who purchased it in 1952 after the death of her husband King George VI. She restored it to its former glory, even giving it back its original name. She made regular visits to the castle in August and October from 1955 to 2001. Her last visit was in October 2001, and she died in March 2002. By 1996, the…
Read more