History

Tales of the Tower: Lady Jane Grey

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…
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History

The common illness that killed a Queen

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

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…
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Queen Elizabeth IIState & Ceremonial

Folk songs, candlesticks and Shakespeare: gifts exchanged during China State Visit

Earlier on Tuesday, The President Xi and Madame Peng enjoyed a private lunch at Buckingham Palace, given by The Queen. The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall were also in attendance at the luncheon. View image | gettyimages.com Following the private lunch, Her Majesty invited the President and Madame Peng to view an exhibition in the Picture Gallery of items from the Royal Collection…
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History

The 1940s: The Queen Mother's finest decade

Though the 1930s brought about tumultuous change for the country and for Queen Elizabeth, the 1940s would soon become a decade that nobody would ever forget. It would also be the decade that Elizabeth would be dubbed ‘the most dangerous woman in Europe’ and many…
Palaces & Buildings

Archaeologists at Tower of London find ‘ritual protection’ to ward off evil

The Tower of London is perhaps England’s best known and premier fortress and has been for almost a thousand years, but now evidence has been found that its inhabitants sometimes felt far from safe. Recent research has been carried out by archaeologists from the Museum of London Archaeology in the residence of the Queen’s representative in The Queen’s House. Archaeologists have found dozens…
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