Podcast appearances and mentions of claire ridgway

How Edward Seymour Went from Power to the Scaffold   On this day in Tudor history, 8 October 1549, England's most powerful man became its newest traitor. Edward Seymour, Duke of Somerset and uncle to the boy-king Edward VI, had ruled England as Lord Protector since 1547.    He pushed bold reforms (the Act of Uniformity and the Book of Common Prayer) but rebellion, rivalry, and ambition brought him down. When unrest broke out in 1549 - the Prayer Book Rebellion and Kett's Rebellion - Somerset's authority crumbled. He panicked, calling men to arms and taking the young king to Windsor. His enemies, led by John Dudley, Earl of Warwick, moved fast. On 8 October 1549, the Privy Council branded Somerset a traitor. By the 11th, he had surrendered. Within days, he was in the Tower; his protectorate abolished.   But this is Tudor England… and there's always a twist. Somerset returned to power briefly, only to be accused of plotting against Northumberland and executed in January 1552.   Join me, historian and author Claire Ridgway, as we explore how ambition, politics, and faith brought down the “Good Duke".   Was Somerset a reformer out of his depth, or a ruthless operator undone by his own hand? Tell me in the comments!   Don't forget to like, subscribe, and ring the bell for daily Tudor history deep dives.   #OnThisDay #TudorHistory #EdwardVI #DukeOfSomerset #EdwardSeymour #Reformation #KettsRebellion #PrayerBookRebellion #JohnDudley #TudorPolitics #TowerOfLondon #TudorTok #HistoryTok #ClaireRidgway #BritishHistory

A spring morning in 1573. A respected London merchant leaves a friend's house near Woolwich… and ends up dead by Shooter's Hill. The killer, Captain George Brown, is caught within days. But the real shock wasn't the killer's identity, it was the letter that told him exactly where to strike… and who wanted George Saunders gone. I'm Claire Ridgway, historian and author. In this Tudor true-crime deep dive, we follow the manhunt, the Privy Council's rapid crackdown, and the chain of clues later dramatised in "A Warning for Fair Women", from “a white doublet and blue breeches” to blood on a suspect's hose and a waterman's damning testimony. What unfolds reaches far beyond a highway ambush, right into Saunders's inner circle. In this episode you'll hear about: The ambush near Shooter's Hill and John Beane's miraculous survival How the Council moved: arrest at Rochester, Tower examinations, and swift justice at Smithfield The mysterious letter and the go-between who carried messages Why the case obsessed Elizabethan England: status, scandal, and a rich paper trail (pamphlets, ballad, Privy Council orders, and a stage play) The final twist that stunned London If you love Tudor true crime, hit like, subscribe, and ring the bell.   #truecrime #tudortruecrime #tudorhistory #tudormurder #georgesaunders #elizabethandrama

Was Mary Boleyn really “the pretty one”, or is that just fiction? I'm Claire Ridgway, historian and author, and today I'm pulling apart the myths to ask what we can actually say about Mary's appearance. In this podcast you'll learn: Where our assumptions on Mary come from. How a 17th-century portrait type has been re-identified as Mary Boleyn using dendrochronology (tree-ring dating), provenance, and family inscriptions. Why ermine doesn't disqualify the sitter (and what William Carey's status means). What Mary's children's portraits (Catherine & Henry Carey) do, and don't, tell us. No line-by-line Tudor description survives. But wood science + Carey/Wharton family links + studio copies by Remigius van Leemput point to a fair/light-complexioned Mary with hazel-to-light-brown eyes and dark-blonde/light-brown/auburn hair, and a softly rounded face. Tell me in the comments: does this portrait type convince you, or is Mary still a mystery? If you enjoyed this deep dive, please like, subscribe, and tap the bell, and check my Mary Boleyn playlist for more - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLepqWJ7TpkrKSxTbgPHf6SjqFnqv_-pQ-   Further reading - http://jordaensvandyck.org/mysterious-woman-in-royal-collection-portrait-identified-as-mary-boleyn/   #MaryBoleyn #AnneBoleyn #TheOtherBoleynGirl #TudorHistory #History #ArtHistory #RoyalCollection #HeverCastle #BoleynFamily #PortraitResearch #EarlyModern

On this day in 1452, a boy was born at Fotheringhay Castle who would become England's last Plantagenet king: Richard III. I'm Claire Ridgway, and in today's episode we trace Richard's short, stormy road from noble son to fallen king, and the remarkable afterlife of his story, from Bosworth Field to a Leicester car park and DNA confirmation centuries later. In this podcast: Birth & family: the House of York and Cecily Neville, the “Rose of Raby” 1483: the pre-contract claim, Edward V's disinheritance, and Richard's coronation Challenges to the crown: Buckingham's rebellion & Henry Tudor's invasion Battle of Bosworth (22 Aug 1485): tactics, the Stanleys' decisive move, Richard's last charge Burial at Grey Friars, the 2012 discovery & DNA, scoliosis, and reinterment (2015) Legacy: usurper, reformer, courageous warrior, or a king made by brutal times? What's your take on Richard III—pragmatic protector, ruthless usurper, courageous warrior, or a product of his age? Tell me in the comments. If you enjoyed this On This Day, please like, subscribe, and ring the bell for more daily Tudor and late-medieval history. #OnThisDay #RichardIII #WarsOfTheRoses #Bosworth #Plantagenet #Fotheringhay #PrincesInTheTower #AnneNeville #Leicester #MedievalHistory #TudorHistory #History #Yorkist #DNA

I'm Claire Ridgway, historian and author. On 29 September, the Tudors celebrated Michaelmas, the feast of St Michael the Archangel, heaven's champion and defender of the Church. Beyond the bells and processions, Michaelmas was one of the four quarter days, the moment the Tudor year turned. In this video: What Michaelmas meant in scripture & worship (Michael vs. the dragon) Quarter day basics: new agricultural year, rents & accounts due, hiring/statute fairs The menu: why Tudors roasted “stubble-goose” (and the saying that it kept you in money) Folklore: don't pick blackberries after Michaelmas—the devil's said to spoil them! Echoes today: why Oxford, Cambridge and the law courts still call it Michaelmas term What would be on your table: goose, apples, or a blackberry tart (picked before today, of course)? Tell me in the comments! If you enjoyed this slice of seasonal Tudor life, please like, subscribe, and ring the bell for more daily “On This Day” history. #Michaelmas #OnThisDay #TudorFeastDays #TudorHistory #StMichael #EarlyModernLife #TudorFood #SeasonalHistory #HistoryYouTube #QuarterDays #BritishFolklore

Imagine standing shoulder to shoulder with Henry Tudor in exile, then riding back to win a crown at Bosworth. Today we meet Robert Willoughby, 1st Baron Willoughby de Broke: sheriff, soldier, royal fixer and one of Henry VII's most loyal supporters, who died on 28 September 1502 at Callington, Cornwall. In this episode of On This Day in Tudor History, I, Claire Ridgway (historian & author), trace Willoughby's journey from West Country administrator to exile in Brittany, his role at Bosworth (22 Aug 1485), and the rewards that followed: Knight of the Body, Lord Steward of the Household, Order of the Garter, and more. It's a story of risk, resilience, and how loyalty shaped the early Tudor court. What you'll learn: Willoughby's early service in Cornwall & Devon Backing Buckingham's 1483 rebellion and fleeing to Brittany Fighting with Henry Tudor at Bosworth High offices and lands granted by Henry VII Why Willoughby mattered to the new Tudor regime If you enjoy daily Tudor deep-dives, like, subscribe, and tap the bell. Want bonus content, my digital magazine The Privy Chronicle, and members-only Q&As? Join my channel membership! #TudorHistory #OnThisDay #HenryVII #Bosworth #WarsOfTheRoses #RobertWilloughby #ClaireRidgway #TudorDynasty #HistoryYouTube #MedievalHistory

Who's the “real” Anne Boleyn—the medal, the portraits, or the version we've imagined? In this interview, Helene Harrison joins me to discuss her book The Many Faces of Anne Boleyn: Interpreting Image and Perception—not a biography, but a study of how Anne has been seen across centuries. We explore: What readers should unlearn about Anne's image Beyond the 1534 medal: which likeness may come closest—and which is most misleading Foreign observers (ambassadors, visitors): who reads Anne well, and who writes with an agenda? Evidence vs. imagination: where the record ends and interpretation begins Stage/film/TV: what one portrayal gets right—and what most get wrong I'm Claire Ridgway, historian, author, and host of the Anne Boleyn Files & Tudor Society. If you enjoy deep dives into Tudor history, please like, subscribe, and share your thoughts below. Get Helene's book & follow her work: Amazon UK - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Many-Faces-Anne-Boleyn-Interpreting/dp/1036105024/ Amazon.com - https://www.amazon.com/Many-Faces-Anne-Boleyn-Interpreting/dp/1036105024/ Website - https://tudorblogger.com/

The Short, Daring Life of Thomas Watson On this day in Tudor history, 26 September 1592, poet and translator Thomas Watson was buried at St Bartholomew-the-Less. You may not know his name, but in Elizabethan circles he was the rule-bender who wrote 18-line “sonnets”, carried letters for Sir Francis Walsingham, supplied lyrics for William Byrd, and once landed in prison after stepping between Christopher Marlowe and a blade. I'm Claire Ridgway, historian and author. In this episode you'll discover: Hekatompathia (1582): the 100-poem love sequence with 18-line “sonnets” Watson the Latinist: Petrarch, Sophocles' Antigone, Amyntas & Amintae gaudia Music & verse: his words for Byrd and Englishings of Italian madrigals The 1589 brawl with Marlowe & William Bradley: wound, death, and a self-defence pardon Final years, plague-time death, and The Tears of Fancie (1593) Where to start reading: dip into Hekatompathia for the form-breaking love poems, then try The Tears of Fancie to hear his later English voice. Question for you: Had you heard of Watson before? Which Elizabethan poet deserves more attention? If you enjoyed this “On This Day,” please like, subscribe, and ring the bell for daily Tudor & Elizabethan deep dives.     #OnThisDay #TudorHistory #Elizabethan #ThomasWatson #ChristopherMarlowe #Walsingham #WilliamByrd #RenaissancePoetry #Sonnets #LondonHistory #EarlyModern #EnglishLiterature  

The Day Mary, Queen of Scots' Fate Was Sealed On this day in Tudor history, 25 September 1586,  Mary, Queen of Scots was escorted to Fotheringhay Castle. She would never leave. That same week, Elizabeth I agreed to appoint 36 commissioners to try her cousin. The road from captive to condemned began here. I'm Claire Ridgway, historian and author. In this episode, I set the scene and trace the chain: From captivity (1568) and Pius V's excommunication (1570) to a climate ripe for plots Ridolfi, Throckmorton, and the fatal Babington Plot (Mary's “set the six gentlemen to work”) Walsingham's cipher trap and the arrests Transfer to Fotheringhay; the commissioners named Trial (14 Oct) to guilty (25 Oct) to Parliament's petition to warrant signed (1 Feb 1587) to execution (8 Feb) Question for you: Was Elizabeth defending her realm, or crossing a line no monarch should? Tell me in the comments. If this “On This Day” was useful, please like, subscribe, and ring the bell for daily Tudor history.   #OnThisDay #TudorHistory #MaryQueenOfScots #ElizabethI #Fotheringhay #BabingtonPlot #Walsingham #EnglishHistory #EarlyModern #16thCentury 

On this day in Tudor history, 23 September 1568, a tense “harbour truce” at San Juan de Ulúa (Veracruz) exploded into close-quarters battle. Spanish warships surged in; cannon roared; John Hawkins and his young kinsman Francis Drake barely escaped with the Minion and Judith as the flagship Jesus of Lübeck was wrecked. Many English sailors were captured, some facing the Inquisition. I'm Claire Ridgway. In this episode, I unpack the ambush that hardened English attitudes, reshaped the navy, and helped set the course toward the Spanish Armada, including the uncomfortable truth that Hawkins's ventures were tied to the transatlantic slave trade, central to both profit and Spanish fury. What you'll learn: Why Hawkins sought shelter at San Juan de Ulúa, and the “safe-conduct” deal that failed The battle itself: ship list, tactics, and how Drake cut free Two empires, two narratives: “treachery” vs “piracy” Long consequences: Hawkins's navy reforms and the rise of race-built galleons How Ulúa forged the mindset behind later Elizabethan raids and 1588 If this “On This Day” deep dive gripped you, please like, subscribe, and tell me in the comments: Treachery or piracy, how do you read Ulúa? #OnThisDay #TudorHistory #SanJuanDeUlua #JohnHawkins #FrancisDrake #SpanishArmada #NavalHistory #EarlyEmpire

Ever looked up at Hampton Court's Great Hall and wondered who made that jaw-dropping roof? On this day in Tudor history, 22 September 1544, James Nedeham, master carpenter, architect and Surveyor of the King's Works, died while on campaign with Henry VIII at Boulogne. You may not know his name, but you know his work: Hampton Court's Great Hall roof, Traitors' Gate timbering at the Tower of London, and key projects at Whitehall and beyond. I'm historian and author Claire Ridgway. In this episode, meet the craftsman who helped stage Tudor power. What you'll learn: How a London guildsman rose to Master Carpenter & Surveyor of the King's Works The story behind Hampton Court's hammer-beam masterpiece Nedeham at the Tower of London: Jewel House & Traitors' Gate (1532) Whitehall, Canterbury, and reusing monastic sites after the Dissolution His final campaign with Henry VIII and memorial at Little Wymondley Question for you: If you could time-travel through one Tudor space, which would it be—Hampton Court, Whitehall, or the Tower—and why? If you enjoy the “hidden makers” of Tudor England, please like, subscribe, and ring the bell for daily On This Day history. Hashtags: #TudorHistory #HamptonCourt #HenryVIII #TowerOfLondon #Whitehall #OnThisDay #ArchitecturalHistory #GreatHall #TraitorsGate

Content note: This video discusses historical allegations of domestic abuse. Imagine being one of the highest-ranking women in England, then writing that you were locked away, stripped of your jewels, pinned until you spat blood, and dragged from bed by your hair. Those are the claims of Elizabeth Howard, Duchess of Norfolk, set down in letters to Thomas Cromwell, and answered by her husband, Thomas Howard, 3rd Duke of Norfolk. I'm Claire Ridgway. Today we examine Elizabeth's marriage, her letters, Norfolk's rebuttal, and what this case shows about coercive control and power at the Tudor court. In this episode: Elizabeth Howard's background & marriage to Thomas Howard Bess Holland, household tensions, and banishment from court The letters to Cromwell: isolation at Redbourne, financial control, intimidation, and alleged assaults Norfolk's defence—and why children and kin sided against Elizabeth How historians read these sources today: myth, motive, and patterns of abuse Read the letters (primary sources): - Letters of Royal and Illustrious Ladies of Great Britain, Vol. II, pp. 218–225; p. 358 onwards: https://archive.org/details/lettersroyaland00greegoog/page/n242/mode/2up - Letters of Royal and Illustrious Ladies, Vol. VI, pp. 96–100: https://archive.org/details/lettersroyaland06greegoog/page/n116/mode/2up If this topic interests you, please like, subscribe, and share your thoughts: Do you find Elizabeth's testimony or Norfolk's defence more convincing, and why? #TudorHistory #TrueCrime #ElizabethHoward #DukeOfNorfolk #ThomasCromwell #DomesticAbuseHistory #AnneBoleyn #HistoryDocumentary  

Villain or maligned? In this interview, historical novelist Wendy Johnson—a founding member of Philippa Langley's “Looking for Richard” project—joins me to discuss her debut novel, The Traitor's Son, which traces Richard III's formative decade (1461–1471). We explore: What being close to the 2012 discovery in Leicester changed for her as a writer and Ricardian Why start with boyhood—and what newcomers should unlearn about Richard Fact vs fiction: where the record ends and imagination begins Favourite sources for Edward, George, and Richard Places that shaped the story: Ludlow, Middleham, London Teasers for Books 2 & 3 in the trilogy Plus: Wendy's top Ricardian must-visit sites, the scene she'd film first, and one non-fiction pick to read next. I'm Claire Ridgway. Thanks for watching. Please like, subscribe, and share your thoughts below! #RichardIII #WarsOfTheRoses #HistoricalFiction #LookingForRichard #Plantagenets #MedievalHistory

On this day in Tudor history, 19 September 1580, Katherine Willoughby (Katherine Brandon, later Katherine Bertie), Duchess of Suffolk, died after a long illness and was laid to rest at Spilsby, Lincolnshire. I'm historian and author Claire Ridgway, and today I'm telling the story of one of my favourite Tudor women, a brilliant, resilient figure who moved from court glitter to deepest grief, from duchess to exile and back again, guided by a sharp mind and a fiercer faith. In this episode: Heiress & child-bride: ward of Charles Brandon and Duchess at 14 Court & conscience: official mourner at Catherine of Aragon's funeral; hiring Hugh Latimer to preach Tragedy in 1551: losing both sons to the sweating sickness the same day Love & exile: marriage to Richard Bertie, flight under Mary I, return under Elizabeth I Legacy: patronage of reform, Miles Coverdale in her household, and that famous little dog named “Gardiner” If you enjoy deep dives into remarkable Tudor women, please like, subscribe, and share your thoughts below. #OnThisDay #TudorHistory #KatherineWilloughby #DuchessOfSuffolk #CharlesBrandon #Reformation #SweatingSickness #ElizabethI

We rarely hear about Marten Micron, a young Dutch pastor who came to London as a refugee, and helped organise one of the most radical experiments of Edward VI's reign: the Stranger Church at Austin Friars. I'm historian and author Claire Ridgway, and in today's video I'll be sharing the remarkable story of Marten Micron: his ministry among London's refugees, his influential writings on church order and catechism, his exile under Mary I, and his enduring legacy in the Reformation. In this episode: - Who Marten Micron was and how he came to London. - Why the Stranger Churches were so significant in Edward VI's England. - Micron's role in shaping worship, discipline, and teaching. - His exile, death, and why his writings still mattered across Europe. Join me as we uncover the story of a reformer too often forgotten, yet whose influence rippled far beyond Tudor England.   What do you think—should Marten Micron be remembered alongside figures like Cranmer and Calvin? Tell me in the comments! Like, subscribe, and tap the bell so you don't miss more daily deep dives into Tudor and Reformation history. And if you'd like even more Tudor content—including my monthly digital magazine The Privy Chronicle—consider becoming a channel member and stepping into my Tudor court! #TudorHistory #Reformation #MartenMicron #StrangerChurch #ClaireRidgway

On this day in Tudor history—10 September 1557—Joyce Lewis was led to the stake at Lichfield for her Protestant faith. Eyewitnesses said she faced the flames with cheerfulness. I'm historian and author Claire Ridgway, and in today's episode, I share the powerful and heartbreaking story of a Tudor gentlewoman who chose faith and conscience over compliance—with devastating consequences. In this video: Her noble lineage and tragic first marriage The moment that changed her faith Her arrest, trial, and unwavering defence of conscience Her final toast to gospel believers The dignity and defiance she showed at the stake Her lasting legacy, memorialised centuries later in Mancetter This is the story of a woman whose quiet courage still echoes today. Like, comment, and subscribe for more daily Tudor history stories. What do you think sustained Joyce Lewis's bravery—faith, community, or sheer inner resolve? Tell me in the comments. Want more Tudor content, including my monthly digital magazine The Privy Chronicle? Consider becoming a channel member and stepping into my Tudor court! #TudorHistory #JoyceLewis #MarianMartyrs #OnThisDay #ProtestantMartyrs #MaryI #ClaireRidgway #TudorWomen #FaithAndFire #HistoryWithHeart #TudorMartyrs #ReformationHistory

We are as near to Heaven by sea as by land.” On this day, 9 September 1583, Sir Humphrey Gilbert's tiny ship, the Squirrel, disappeared in an Atlantic storm, and an audacious Elizabethan life ended in a flash of foam and darkness. I'm historian and author Claire Ridgway, and today we follow Gilbert's extraordinary arc: Devon gentleman and half-brother to Sir Walter Ralegh; soldier praised at Newhaven and feared in Munster for brutal tactics; polemicist for a Northwest Passage and English colonisation; MP who clashed in Parliament; and, finally, patent-holder who sailed to Newfoundland and claimed St John's for Queen Elizabeth I, before disaster struck on the homeward voyage. In this episode: Gilbert's powerful family network (Kat Ashley & the Ralegh connection) Soldier and strategist: praise in France, terror in Ireland Pen and policy: A Discourse of a Discoverie & dreams of an academy The 1583 voyage: The Delight, the Golden Hind, the Swallow, and the fateful Squirrel Claiming St John's—and losing men, charts, and nerve in a wreck The storm off the Azores and Gilbert's haunting last words Legacy: how his vision fed later English ventures in the New World If you enjoy these daily Tudor deep dives, please like, subscribe, and ring the bell so you don't miss the next one. #TudorHistory #OnThisDay #Elizabethan #Exploration #Newfoundland #SirHumphreyGilbert #WalterRaleigh

Grandson of Mary Boleyn. Cousin to Elizabeth I. Patron to Shakespeare's company. On 8 September 1603, George Carey, 2nd Baron Hunsdon, died, leaving a legacy that runs from court politics to the playhouse. Some even whispered he was Henry VIII's grandson. Rumour or not, Carey stood right behind the stage that gave us Hamlet, Henry V and more. I'm historian and author Claire Ridgway. In today's “On This Day,” meet the steady court insider who helped shape the English Renaissance, from border forts and the Isle of Wight to the Lord Chamberlain's Men. What you'll learn: Carey's Boleyn roots & royal connections Missions to Scotland and a knighthood at Berwick (1570) Roles that kept him close to Elizabeth I (Marshal of the Household, JP, Constable of Bamburgh, Captain of the Isle of Wight) How he supported the fleet during the Spanish Armada Why becoming Lord Chamberlain (1596) mattered to Shakespeare's troupe Honours (KG, Privy Council) and his late-life legacy under James I The enduring rumour about Tudor blood in the Carey line If you enjoyed this, please like, subscribe, and ring the bell for daily Tudor stories. Tell me in the comments: Do you think the Carey–Tudor blood rumour holds water? #TudorHistory #AnneBoleyn #ElizabethI #Shakespeare #LordChamberlainsMen #OnThisDay

Join me for a lively deep-dive with historian and author Amy McElroy—whose books include Educating the Tudors and Women's Lives in the Tudor Era, with Mary Tudor, Queen of France out next and a new project on Desiderius Erasmus underway. We talk Tudor education, women's real power at home and court, Mary Tudor's overlooked influence, and why Erasmus matters. In this interview, we explore: How Amy fell in love with history and turned blogging into books Educating the Tudors: what (and how) children learned—across class and gender Women's Lives in the Tudor Era: daughters, wives, mothers, widows—how much agency did they really have? Mary Tudor, Queen of France: the sister who shaped a dynasty—beyond the shadow of Henry VIII Erasmus: Europe's sharpest mind—visionary or misunderstood? Research wins, writing routines, audience Qs, and a quick-fire Tudor round About my guest: Amy McElroy is the author of Educating the Tudors (2023), Women's Lives in the Tudor Era (2024), and Mary Tudor, Queen of France (2025), with Desiderius Erasmus: The Folly or Far Sightedness of Renaissance Europe's Greatest Mind (2026) forthcoming. She co-hosts The Tudor Notebook on Substack and has appeared on several podcasts. Links: Amy's books & Substack — https://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/Amy-McElroy/author/B0BBSK2SDQ, https://www.amazon.com/stores/Amy-McElroy/author/B0BBSK2SDQ, https://amymcelroy.substack.com/ My December online event The Other Tudors: The Forgotten Figures Who Shaped a Dynasty — Launching soon at https://claireridgway.com/ - keep an eye out! Subscribe for more Tudor interviews & deep dives Say hello in the comments: Which part of Mary Tudor's story deserves its own episode? And what's your take on Erasmus?

On 28th August 1588, the year of the Spanish Armada, a young Franciscan friar named Thomas Felton was hanged near Brentford, Middlesex. Felton's “crime”? His Catholic faith, and his refusal to acknowledge Elizabeth I as head of the Church. The son of Blessed John Felton (executed in 1570 for posting the papal bull of Elizabeth's excommunication), young Thomas endured brutal imprisonment and torture — confined in the Little Ease, flogged, and even hanged by his hands until they bled. Yet he refused to betray his faith or the priests who sheltered English Catholics. He was just 21 years old when he went to the gallows — turning down a pardon rather than compromise his beliefs. In this podcast, I, Claire Ridgway, historian and author, share the tragic yet inspiring story of Thomas Felton, and why his courage deserves to be remembered. If you enjoy deep dives into Tudor history, please like and subscribe, and consider joining my channel membership for exclusive talks, resources, and a monthly Tudor magazine. #TudorHistory #ElizabethI #SpanishArmada #CatholicMartyrs #OnThisDay

On 19th May 1536, Anne Boleyn, second wife of Henry VIII and mother of Elizabeth I, was executed within the Tower of London. Contemporary sources say she was laid to rest in the Chapel of St Peter ad Vincula, but legends place her hundreds of miles away, in Norfolk or Suffolk… and some even claim her heart was buried elsewhere. In this podcast, I, Claire Ridgway, historian, author of The Fall of Anne Boleyn: A Countdown, and founder of The Anne Boleyn Files, explore the evidence and the myths about Anne Boleyn's resting place. We'll uncover: - What eyewitness accounts of 1536 say about her burial - The Norfolk and Essex legends of secret midnight burials - The strange Suffolk tale of Anne's heart in a parish church - The 1876 Victorian exhumations inside the Tower chapel - Why some historians argue her memorial tile marks the wrong grave Is Anne Boleyn truly buried beneath her memorial tile in the Tower of London — or does her story in death hold one last mystery? Watch and decide for yourself. If you enjoy Tudor history deep dives, don't forget to: - Like this podcast (it helps more history fans find it) - Subscribe for more Tudor stories every week - Join my channel membership for exclusive resources, behind-the-scenes videos, my monthly Tudor magazine, and live chats Have you ever visited Anne Boleyn's memorial at the Tower? Or Salle Church in Norfolk? Share your experience in the comments! #AnneBoleyn #TudorHistory #HenryVIII #AnneBoleynFiles #TowerOfLondon #TudorMystery #RoyalHistory #OnThisDay #QueenElizabethI #CatherineHoward

In 1590, Catholic gentleman John Hocknell — imprisoned in Chester Castle for his faith — didn't die of plague, hunger, or age. He was murdered… by his own gaoler. The weapon? A pitchfork. The killer? The castle's underkeeper, i.e. Hocknell's gaoler. In this episode of Tudor True Crime, I, historian and author Claire Ridgway, uncover the shocking story of Hocknell's repeated imprisonments for recusancy, his bizarre brush with “false prophecies,” and the brutal killing that cut his life short just months before his release. We'll explore: What life was like for Catholic recusants in Elizabeth I's reign How Hocknell's defiance — and a strange prophecy — landed him in prison The network of imprisoned Catholic gentlemen in Chester Castle How a gaoler's deadly act led to a rare Tudor murder conviction It's a grim but fascinating glimpse into religious persecution, political paranoia, and the darker side of Tudor justice. Like if you love discovering hidden Tudor tales Subscribe for more Tudor history and true crime Join my YouTube Tudor court for exclusive content, live Zoom discussions, and my monthly magazine. #TudorTrueCrime #TudorHistory #OnThisDay #ElizabethI #CatholicHistory #Recusancy #TrueCrimeHistory #TudorEngland

Before Shakespeare's Hamlet, there may have been another… Written by a man history almost erased. On this day in Tudor history—15th August 1594—playwright Thomas Kyd was buried in London, aged just 36. In his short life, he wrote The Spanish Tragedy, one of the biggest theatrical hits of the Elizabethan age—performed 29 times at the Rose Theatre and published in 11 editions, more than any of Shakespeare's plays at the time. But Kyd's meteoric career ended in scandal. Kyd was imprisoned, possibly tortured, and his health was ruined. And then there's the tantalising mystery—did Thomas Kyd write the now-lost Ur-Hamlet, the play that inspired Shakespeare's masterpiece? Join me, historian and author Claire Ridgway, as I uncover the life, works, scandals, and enduring influence of one of Elizabethan theatre's most important—yet overlooked—figures. If you love forgotten Tudor stories, this one's unmissable. #ThomasKyd #Hamlet #TudorHistory #ElizabethanTheatre #TheSpanishTragedy #OnThisDay #Shakespeare #ClaireRidgway

He was knighted at Henry VIII's third wedding, carried Queen Jane Seymour's coffin, and greeted Anne of Cleves on her arrival in England. He fought in France, jousted at Edward VI's coronation, served as MP under Mary and Elizabeth, and—most heartbreakingly—wept as he escorted Elizabeth I to the Tower during Wyatt's Rebellion. On this day in Tudor history, 13th August 1566, Sir Humphrey Radcliffe died at his manor in Elstow, having served four Tudor monarchs with quiet loyalty and deep conscience. I'm Claire Ridgway, historian and author, and in this podcast I'm telling the story of a man you may never have heard of—but whose life intersects with some of the most dramatic and emotional events of the Tudor era. Join me as I explore Radcliffe's life. #OnThisDay #TudorHistory #HenryVIII #ElizabethI #Radcliffe #WyattsRebellion #TrueHistory #ClaireRidgway #AnneBoleynFiles #TudorTok #HistoryYouTube

He reformed how we pronounce Greek, helped dissolve the old Church, negotiated for Elizabeth I… and somehow survived every Tudor monarch from Henry VIII's reign onward. On this day in Tudor history, 12th August 1577, Sir Thomas Smith—a scholar, diplomat, and political survivor—died quietly at his home in Essex. But his life was anything but quiet. I'm Claire Ridgway, historian and author, and in today's video, I'm taking you beyond the famous names and into the fascinating life of one of the Tudor era's most brilliant minds. Smith wasn't a noble or a court favourite, but he taught the likes of William Cecil, helped shape Protestant reform, and worked behind the scenes to craft Tudor foreign policy. Listen now for a deep dive into a man who helped build the intellectual and political foundations of Elizabethan England—without ever grabbing the spotlight. Let me know in the comments—had you heard of Sir Thomas Smith before today? And which of his books would you want to read? Like, subscribe, and don't forget to click the Join button if you'd like to be part of my Tudor inner circle—with exclusive content, a digital magazine, and much more! #TudorHistory #SirThomasSmith #OnThisDay #ClaireRidgway #ElizabethI #TudorCourt #TudorSurvivor #TudorReformation #EnglishHistory #ForgottenFigures #TudorScholar #TudorGovernment #HistoryDeepDive

On this day in Tudor history, 11th August 1556, Sir John Kingsmill died—quietly, naturally, and with his head still on his shoulders. That might not sound remarkable… but in the reigns of Henry VIII, Edward VI, and Mary I, it absolutely was. I'm Claire Ridgway, historian and author, and in today's video I'm introducing you to a lesser-known but fascinating figure who worked with Thomas Cromwell, helped dissolve monasteries and chantries, and still managed to earn a pardon from Queen Mary I. Lawyer, sheriff, and skilled political survivor, Kingsmill was: - A knight of Henry VIII's reign - A commissioner for Edward VI's Protestant reforms - A beneficiary of monastic spoils - And the father of seventeen children—yes, seventeen! He may not have stood centre stage in the Tudor court, but he was always there in the wings—helping shape policy, surviving the storms, and building a legacy that would continue well into Elizabeth I's reign. Oh, and his descendants? One was pardoned for manslaughter. Two were later recorded as insane. Intrigued? Listen now to explore the quiet cunning of Sir John Kingsmill—a man who knew how to stay in favour no matter who sat on the throne. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell to never miss a Tudor tale. And if you'd like even more exclusive content—including a monthly Tudor magazine—click the Join button and become part of my inner circle. #TudorHistory #OnThisDay #SirJohnKingsmill #ThomasCromwell #QueenMaryI #TudorCourt #TudorSurvivor #HenryVIII #EdwardVI #DissolutionOfTheMonasteries #ClaireRidgway #TudorPolitics #Reformation #HiddenHistory #TudorTales

Wormwood-strewn floors. Poisoned rat cakes. Bounties on hedgehogs. No, it's not a dark fairy tale—it's real Tudor pest control. In a world without bug spray or exterminators, how did the Tudors tackle fleas, flies, rats, mice… and even moths? Let's just say… they got creative. And ruthless. I'm Claire Ridgway, historian and author—and in today's video, we're diving into the bizarre, herbal, and sometimes horrifying methods the Tudors used to defend their homes (and health!) from pests. You'll discover: - Why strewing herbs were scattered on floors - What the Goodman of Paris suggested for catching fleas - The deadly ingredients in Tudor rat cakes - Why hedgehogs were considered milk thieves - And the law that made people bounty hunters If you enjoy strange corners of history, click Like, Subscribe, and hit the bell to get more true Tudor tales every week. Want exclusive videos, behind-the-scenes content, printable resources, and my monthly digital magazine "The Privy Chronicle"? Click Join and become part of my Tudor inner circle today! #TudorHistory #WeirdHistory #PestControlHistory #ClaireRidgway #AnneBoleynFiles #TudorLife #HistoricalFacts #FleasAndFlames #DeadHedgehogs #TrueHistory #HistoryNerd #MedievalHygiene #OnThisDay #StrangeButTrue #HorribleHistory

He was born a lovechild, died an exiled nobleman—and in between, he explored the West Indies, built ships for Italian dukes, and underwent a bigamous marriage. On this day in Tudor history, 7th August 1574, Sir Robert Dudley was born—the illegitimate son of Queen Elizabeth I's favourite, Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester, and Lady Douglas Sheffield. I'm Claire Ridgway, historian and author, and today I'm uncovering the dramatic tale of this brilliant yet controversial Tudor figure: - Explorer. - Cartographer. - Naval innovator. - Bigamist. He tried to prove he was legitimate in a Star Chamber case, claimed his parents had married in secret, and later left England in scandal—running off with his teenage cousin and marrying her in Italy, despite having a wife (and seven daughters) back home. From secret weddings and shady inheritances to pioneering naval design and creating the first maritime atlas by an Englishman, Dudley's life was one of ambition, scandal… and survival. Was he a scoundrel, a genius, or both? Watch now and decide for yourself. If you enjoyed this dive into Tudor history, don't forget to like, subscribe, and click the bell icon. Want exclusive livestreams, behind-the-scenes videos, printable resources, and even a Tudor-themed monthly magazine? Click the Join button to become a channel member—I'd love to welcome you to the Tudor court! Further Reading: https://archive.org/details/voyageofrobertdu00warnrich Journal article “A Letter from Robert, Earl of Leicester, to a Lady” by Conyers Read https://www.jstor.org/stable/3818131?read-now=1&seq=7#page_scan_tab_contents https://allthingsrobertdudley.wordpress.com/2013/06/01/letter-to-a-lady/  #TudorHistory #TudorTrueCrime #RobertDudley #ElizabethI #Leicester #HistoryScandal #HistoryTok #ClaireRidgway #AnneBoleynFiles #OnThisDay #TudorTok #TudorSecrets #EarlyModernHistory

Welcome to another chilling instalment of Tudor True Crime with me, historian and author Claire Ridgway. Today, we uncover the dark story of Charles Stourton, 8th Baron Stourton—a nobleman whose pride and rage ended in cold-blooded murder… and a very public hanging. What started as a bitter land feud Escalated into a siege at a church Ended with two bound men, a candlelit killing, and a secret burial in the cellar But someone talked—and justice was swift. Join me as I delve into this gripping tale of power, vengeance, and the brutal fall of a Tudor peer. Listen to the end to find out why even a baron couldn't escape the hangman's rope. Like, comment, and subscribe for more true crime stories from the Tudor world. #TudorTrueCrime #TrueCrime #TudorHistory #CharlesStourton #HistoryMystery #ClaireRidgway #MurderInHistory #AnneBoleynFiles #HistoricalTrueCrime #TudorJustice #BaronAndTheNoose #DarkHistory #OnThisDay #CrimeAndPunishment #HistoryYouTube

He dreamt of invading Ireland with Spanish gold and papal blessing… Instead, he died in a Moroccan ditch, his legs blown off by cannon fire. This is the incredible, tragic, and chaotic story of Thomas Stukeley—Tudor adventurer, mercenary, spy, and the man rumoured to be King Henry VIII's illegitimate son. I'm Claire Ridgway, historian and author, and today we're diving into the Battle of Alcácer Quibir on 4th August 1578—also known as the **Battle of the Three Kings**—where Stukeley died alongside kings and thousands of European soldiers. In this video, I'll explore: - The rumour that Stukeley was Henry VIII's son - Why Stukeley was chosen to lead a crusade into Morocco - The bloody battle that killed three kings and shattered Portugal's future - How one English rogue became a legend (and a tragedy) Want to know more about Stukeley's life as a pirate, papal favourite, and Elizabethan thorn-in-the-side? Watch my full video here: https://youtu.be/Cq11kP14kek Let me know in the comments—had you heard of Thomas Stukeley before? Do you think he could have been Henry VIII's son? #ThomasStukeley #TudorHistory #HenryVIII #OnThisDay #BattleOfThreeKings #SebastianOfPortugal #TudorAdventurers #ClaireRidgway #HistoryTube #DarkHistory #TudorMyths #RoyalBastards #Stukeley

You're walking through a busy modern city—and then a towering Gothic church stops you in your tracks. That's exactly what happened to me in Bristol, when I stumbled upon St Mary Redcliffe, a church Queen Elizabeth I herself called “the fairest, goodliest and most famous parish church in England.” I'm Claire Ridgway, historian and author, and in this episode I share the story behind this incredible Tudor site—from Elizabeth's 1574 visit, to her letters patent for its restoration, to the royal grammar school she founded right next door. Did you know a statue of Elizabeth I from her lifetime still survives—inside this very church? Join me as I explore this hidden Tudor gem and reveal why it should be on every history lover's travel list. I also share a few other places to visit in Bristol, including the nearby cathedral and the fascinating M Shed museum. Explore further: - Wikipedia article: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St_Mary_Redcliffe - Stunning photos: https://www.geograph.org.uk/of/st+mary+redcliffe * Statue of Elizabeth I: https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/1413938 Have you visited St Mary Redcliffe—or Bristol in general? Let me know in the comments! And if you enjoyed this Tudor travel detour, please like and subscribe for more stories from history. #ElizabethI #TudorHistory #TudorArchitecture #StMaryRedcliffe #BristolHistory #QueenElizabethI #TudorTravel #HiddenHistory #ClaireRidgway #TheAnneBoleynFiles #OnThisDay #VisitBristol

Storms at sea. Panic at court. And a queen under guard. On this day in Tudor history — 30th July 1588 — England's fate shifted with the wind. The once-mighty Spanish Armada, already damaged by the Battle of Gravelines, was now scattered and driven northwards by violent storms. Many in England saw it as divine intervention — a “Protestant Wind” sent by God to defend the realm. In this podcast, I explore: - How the Spanish fleet faltered in the aftermath of Gravelines - Why Sir Francis Drake was so delighted - The stormy fate of the Armada - Queen Elizabeth I's cautious moves to protect herself - And how the events of that day fed into national pride and Protestant identity I'm Claire Ridgway, author and historian, and I invite you to join me as we revisit one of the most dramatic moments of Elizabeth I's reign. Do you think it was just a coincidence—or was there something more at work? Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more Tudor history. #TudorHistory #SpanishArmada #ElizabethI #ProtestantWind #ClaireRidgway #TudorEngland #OnThisDay #TudorQueen #StormsOfHistory #Gravelines #FrancisDrake #TudorWar #AnneBoleynFiles #TrueTudorTales #TudorNavy #MaritimeHistory #DivineIntervention

What if I told you that England's very first official voyage of exploration to the New World didn't begin in London—or even under an Englishman's command? Join me, Claire Ridgway, historian and author, as I tell you about "The Matthew", the tiny replica ship moored in Bristol that once carried explorer John Cabot (Giovanni Caboto) across the Atlantic in 1497. Backed by Henry VII, Cabot's bold journey from Bristol to the coast of North America marked the quiet beginnings of England's imperial story—decades before Henry VIII or Elizabeth I ever dreamed of global power. In this episode, we'll uncover: - How Cabot persuaded Henry VII to fund his voyage (well… sort of!) - Why this humble 50-ton ship was key to England's first steps toward overseas discovery - What Cabot found—and why his landing was more significant than he realised - The legacy of The Matthew, its 1997 commemorative voyage, and how Bristol remembers its most daring sailor Learn more at https://matthew.co.uk Like, comment, and subscribe for more untold Tudor tales every week. Had you heard of John Cabot before? Let me know in the comments! #JohnCabot #TudorHistory #TheMatthew #BristolHistory #MaritimeHistory #HenryVII #AnneBoleynFiles #BritishHistory #TudorTok #OnThisDay #HistoryTok #Newfoundland #AgeOfExploration #CabotVoyage #TudorAdventure

Join me, Claire Ridgway, as I sit down with historian and bestselling author Toni Mount to celebrate the release of The Colour of Darkness — book 13 in the gripping Sebastian Foxley Medieval Mystery series. In this fascinating interview, Toni Mount takes us behind the scenes of her writing process, research into 15th-century London, and the creation of her beloved protagonist, artist and reluctant sleuth Seb Foxley. We discuss everything from: - How Seb came to life - What it was like to research crime and justice in Edward IV's reign - Balancing historical accuracy with storytelling - The origins and future of the series And what readers can expect next! The Colour of Darkness plunges us into a sweltering London gripped by plague, suspicion, and witchcraft, where nothing is as it seems, and danger is never far from home. Whether you're already a fan of Seb Foxley or love medieval historical fiction with a twist of mystery, you'll love hearing from Toni about her inspiration, process, and plans. Available now in paperback and on Kindle — and free to read with Kindle Unlimited! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more author interviews, Tudor history, and behind-the-scenes chats. #ToniMount #SebastianFoxley #MedievalMystery #HistoricalFiction #TheColourOfDarkness #AuthorInterview #ClaireRidgway #MedievalLondon #TudorHistory #Witchcraft #Plague #BookLaunch

Imagine stepping into court expecting justice… and instead walking into a death sentence. On this day in Tudor history, 25th July 1577, Queen Elizabeth I's top lawyer, Nicholas Barham, died in Oxford—not by blade or betrayal, but from a silent, invisible killer: gaol fever. Within weeks, over 500 people were dead, including judges, jurors, sheriffs, and townspeople. In this podcast, I, Claire Ridgway, historian and author, uncover: - Who Nicholas Barham was and his rise to power - How gaol fever (epidemic typhus) spread and killed - What other "Black Assizes" followed - Why even the powerful weren't safe from Tudor disease This story isn't just about one man—it's about the dangers of Tudor life, the limits of medical knowledge, and the shocking realities of a justice system where one infected prisoner could doom a whole court. Had you ever heard of the Black Assizes or gaol fever? Let me know in the comments. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more chilling, fascinating Tudor history! #TudorHistory #BlackAssize #GaolFever #OnThisDay #ElizabethanEngland #HistoryTube #ClaireRidgway #PlagueHistory #TrueHistory

12,000 soldiers. 300+ servants. Fireworks. Tapestries. Jewels.* On this day in Tudor history, 20th July 1554, Prince Philip of Spain landed in England to marry Queen Mary I — and he didn't exactly travel light! I'm Claire Ridgway, historian and author, and in today's video I'm taking you behind the scenes of one of the most politically charged royal arrivals in English history. Philip wasn't just Mary's groom — he was heir to one of the most powerful empires in Europe, and his visit sparked rebellion, changed English law, and led to one of the most controversial marriages in the Tudor period. Discover: - Why Parliament restricted Philip's power before he even set foot on English soil - How his epic journey was marked by **diplomatic theatre and imperial symbolism** - The tension between Spanish ambition and English sovereignty - And whether this marriage was doomed from the start… From triumphant pageantry to political paranoia — this is the full story of Philip of Spain's dramatic entry into Tudor England. Also watch: Mary I marries Philip of Spain – 25 July 1554 - https://youtu.be/289MSTDoZHA Full source: Philip's Journey to England – Spanish Relaciones (PDF)] - https://uvadoc.uva.es/bitstream/handle/10324/58553/TFG_F_2022_043.pdf?sequence=1 Let me know in the comments — **Was Philip's marriage to Mary political brilliance, a mistake, personal tragedy… or all of them? Like, subscribe, and ring the bell for more Tudor deep dives every week.

Why were Henry VIII and Elizabeth I part of a dynasty called “Tudor”?  In this podcast, historian and author Claire Ridgway explores the fascinating Welsh origins of the name Tudor—from its Brythonic meaning to how a noble family from Anglesey became one of the most famous royal houses in English history. Discover how: - The name “Tudor” evolved from patronymic Welsh naming traditions - Owain ap Maredudd ap Tudur rose from Welsh nobility to royal service - His descendants shaped the Tudor dynasty - Henry VII proudly claimed his Welsh heritage in his rise to power - And why he used a red dragon in his arms From rebellion and exile to royal marriage and the Battle of Bosworth—this is the real story behind the name Tudor. Did you know the Tudors were Welsh? Share your favourite Tudor trivia in the comments! Subscribe for more Tudor deep-dives every week! #TudorHistory #WelshHistory #HenryVII #ElizabethI #TudorDynasty #OwenTudor #ClaireRidgway #BritishMonarchy #RoyalHistory #HouseOfTudor

You've seen my videos, read my articles, and maybe even own one of my books—but who am I? Who is Claire Ridgway?    Discover the woman behind The Anne Boleyn Files and Tudor Society! In this video, I'll answer your most-asked questions about my work, my research process, my inspiration, and why Anne Boleyn has me hooked. Whether you're a longtime Tudor fan or just curious about what I do, this is your chance to get to know me better. Watch now and join me as we dive into the fascinating world of Tudor history!   https://linktr.ee/claireridgway claireridgway.com www.tudorsociety.com www.theanneboleynfiles.com   1. Who is Claire Ridgway? 2. What books has Claire Ridgway written?  3. What is Claire Ridgway's area of expertise?  4. What inspired Claire Ridgway to focus on Anne Boleyn? 5. What is The Anne Boleyn Files? 6. Does Claire Ridgway offer courses or talks?  7. How does Claire Ridgway conduct her research? 8. What makes Claire Ridgway's approach to history unique? 9. Is Claire Ridgway active on social media? 10. What are Claire Ridgway's most popular videos or blog topics?

On the 15th May 1536, Queen Anne Boleyn stood before a crowd of 2,000 spectators at the Tower of London, on trial for her life. Accused of adultery with five men, including her own brother, and plotting the death of the king, the charges could hardly have been more grave. To discuss what happened on this remarkable day in history, I am pleased to welcome historian, author and all round Anne Boleyn expert, Claire Ridgway onto the show. She joins me today to unpick what must surely be the most explosive court case ever held at the Tower of London, a case which would end with the queen of England suffering the ultimate punishment.

Claire Ridgway talks about how Anne Boleyn showed Henry VIII he didn't need the pope. #anneboleyn #henryviii #reformation #englishhistory #churchofengland You can find my books on Amazon at http://viewauthor.at/claireridgway

Henry VIII's great matter, his quest for an annulment of his marriage to Catherine of Aragon, caused him to break with Rome and was the beginning of the English Reformation. However, Henry chose to marry Catherine and their marriage was happy for many years. In this talk, Claire Ridgway explores how they came to be married, the early years of their marriage, and how and when it began to go wrong.

Merry Christmas! Today, historian Claire Ridgway shares some Christmassy words from 16th century poet and farmer Thomas Tusser.

Lady Jane Grey, or Queen Jane, was a highly intelligent young woman and a staunch Protestant, and in today's "The Tudors in their own words", historian Claire Ridgway shares a couple of quotes from Jane regarding religion.

In today's "The Tudors in their own words", historian Claire Ridgway shares words from Queen Elizabeth I regarding a woman known as her nemesis, Mary, Queen of Scots.

In today's "The Tudors in their own words", historian Claire Ridgway shares a funny story and quote from Queen Elizabeth I regarding Edward de Vere, 17th Earl of Oxford.

In today's "The Tudors in their own words", historian Claire Ridgway shares poetry from the famous Elizabethan poet, Sir Philip Sidney.

In today's "The Tudors in their own words", historian Claire Ridgway shares an excerpt from a letter written by an imprisoned Thomas Cromwell to Henry VIII in 1540.

In today's "The Tudors in their own words", historian Claire Ridgway shares a couple of verses from a ballad written by the famous Protestant martyr Anne Askew.

In today's "The Tudors in their own words", historian Claire Ridgway shares some words Sir Thomas More spoke regarding his master, King Henry VIII, words that show he knew the king incredibly well.

In today's "The Tudors in their own words", historian Claire Ridgway shares some poignant words Mary, Queen of Scots, said to a distressed servant while on her way to her execution in 1587.