Photograph of Tudor rose within stained-glass window in Westminster Abbey

Lunchtime Talk: The Tudors, Faith, Family and Fortune

Date Time Location Price
Wednesday, 11th December 20241.00pm - 1.50pmSt Margaret's Church £5

Leanda de Lisle considers the role of religion in the dramatic story of the Tudor succession and explores the faith of Edward VI, Mary I and Elizabeth I.

When Henry VIII died, and his young son Edward succeeded him, the hope of stability was soon shattered.  With Edward’s accession came a religious revolution. England was to become, for the time, a Protestant country.  

Within six years Edward was dead – buried in Westminster Abbey. As one sister reigned, then another, the impact of religious instability was felt across the whole country.  

Join leading Tudor historian Leanda de Lisle as she sheds light on the contrasting attitudes that Henry VIII’s children displayed towards religion during their reigns and the far-reaching implications this had for the country that they governed.  

This event is part of our monthly Lunchtime Talk series. On the second Wednesday of every month, join us at St Margaret’s Church for an in-depth exploration of part of the Abbey’s history. 

About Leanda de Lisle

Leanda de Lisle is the author of bestselling Tudor and Stuart history. Tudor, her biography of the Tudor family 1437-1603, was a top ten Sunday Times best seller, BBC History book of the year, Daily Telegraph book of the year, and History Today book of the year. The Sisters Who Would Be Queen was a New York Times best seller. She has also written two books about the Stuart Period, The White King and a biography of Henrietta Maria.

Ticketing information 

This event does not include entry to Westminster Abbey. We recommend looking at the Visit us pages to plan a visit during opening hours. 

​​If you would like to look around the rest of the Abbey during your visit then we recommend you do so before you attend the Lunchtime Talk. This is to allow you enough time to see as much as possible.  

Tickets will be available to buy with card payment on the day.  

​​Free for Associates - Admission will be granted upon presentation of a valid Association membership card. 

Age suitability 

This event is for adults and young people over the age of 16, please see our family pages for information and events to explore this theme as a family.  

Timings 

​​Doors will open at 12.45pm and the talk will begin at 1.00pm. ​​There will be time for an audience Q&A from 1.40pm. 

Meeting location 

This event takes place in St Margaret's Church, please follow main visitor entry route through the security check where the event will be signposted.

Access and security 

Please have your ticket ready to show our staff (either printed or on your mobile phone). 

​​On your arrival, your bag will be searched and we ask you not to bring any large items with you (for example suitcases, large backpacks or folding bicycles) as these will not be allowed inside and we are unable to store them for you. 

​​The Abbey is committed to creating inclusive and accessible events for all. If you have any access requirements or questions about your visit, please contact us when booking. [email protected] 

Filming and photography 

​​Please note that filming and sound recording are not permitted in St Margaret's. See our photography policy for more information.