Queen Katherine Parr: A Royal Legacy
Join us to explore the life and legacy of Queen Katherine Parr, the last wife of King Henry VIII, who lived and died at Sudeley, her final resting place. Sudeley is the only private castle in England to have a queen buried within its grounds.
Over the course of this special week, we invite you to discover a woman who was not only a queen, but a scholar and outspoken supporter of the English Reformation, devoted stepmother and mother herself for a tragically brief time. Our annual celebrations of one of England’s most fascinating queens weave together pivotal moments in the nation's history with tales of resilience, love and survival.
Follow a self-guided trail through the grounds, witness living history reenactments, spend a moment of calm within the Chapel where there will be special displays and delve into our collections to see original documents and artefacts such as lock of Katherine's hair and historical interpretation items including reconstruction gowns.
Katherine Parr Trail
Throughout the week, follow in Katherine Parr's footsteps with a series of illustrated trail boards to guide you from the castle entrance to the Chapel, her final resting place.
Learn about Katherine's childhood and education, her marriages and role as Queen of England, alongside her love of learning and writing, journey as a stepmother and mother and her final days at Sudeley Castle.
A Royal Resting Place
At the heart of the experience is the Chapel, nestled within Sudeley’s gardens and the final resting place of Queen Katherine Parr.
Katherine’s beautifully carved stone effigy, created in her likeness, rests above the rededicated tomb designed by the celebrated Victorian architect Sir George Gilbert Scott. Offering a lasting tribute to Henry VIII's last queen, it will be sensitively decorated with flowers and candles.
Replica Texts
High-quality copies of Katherine Parr’s letters and prayer book will available to view and handle in the Chapel (originals housed in the exhibitions area), offering a rare opportunity to engage with reproductions of these remarkable historical documents.
There will also be further interpretation exploring Katherine’s faith, writings and lasting legacy.
Costumed Storytellers
Encounter talented historical reenactors as you explore the castle and grounds presenting an immersive interpretation of Katherine Parr’s life, leading up to her death at Sudeley Castle.
Gain an insight into Katherine's personal alliances and the precarious world of the Tudor court.
Living History Talks
Sudeley's guide Mike Bottomley will portray Miles Coverdale, Katherine Parr’s chaplain.
Twice daily in the Chapel, he will deliver engaging talks exploring Katherine Parr’s final months at Sudeley, her faith and the events surrounding her death.
Exhibition Highlights
Discover Katherine Parr’s original letters and very own prayer book, offering a tangible connection to her remarkable personal story and faith.
View a replica of Katherine Parr’s gown as Regent, as seen in the film Firebrand, and faithful reconstructions of Tudor gowns worn by Henry VIII's six wives. There is also further interpretation exploring Katherine’s influence and connection to Sudeley.
Explore more
There is always something going on at Sudeley…