Katherine Parr Celebration at Sudeley Castle & Gardens
Monday 1 - Sunday 7 September 2025
Life, Loves & Legacy: A Celebration of Katherine Parr
Join Sudeley Castle for a week-long tribute honouring the extraordinary life of Katherine Parr, the only wife of Henry VIII to be buried on private grounds.
From regal diplomacy to royal duty, clues to Katherine’s remarkable journey as a queen, regent, and stepmother are scattered across the castle grounds, historic exhibition spaces and the beautifully restored chapel where she now rests.
Stateswoman & Stepmother
Katherine Parr was far more than a consort. While Henry VIII waged war in France, Katherine served as Regent-General, exercising political authority and fostering reconciliation between the king and his daughters, Mary and Elizabeth. Her legacy directly shaped the future of the English monarchy.
Bringing History to Life
Step back in time as Tudor reenactors in elaborate period costume bring the courtly world of Katherine Parr to life throughout the castle grounds.
The Forgotten Burial
After Sudeley Castle fell into ruin during the English Civil War, Katherine’s burial site was lost to history for over two centuries.
A Queen’s Reburial
With the restoration of the castle and chapel, Katherine’s remains were respectfully reinterred. A magnificent canopied tomb, designed by George Gilbert Scott and sculpted in white marble by John Birnie Philip, now honours her memory.
Paying Tribute
Katherine Parr remains the only one of Henry VIII’s wives to have a likeness preserved in effigy. Visitors are invited to pay their respects in the chapel during this special anniversary week.
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