Step Back in Time: Celebrate Katherine Parr at Sudeley Castle This September
A Week-Long Celebration of the Extraordinary Life of Katherine Parr at Sudeley Castle This September
Visitors are invited to step back in time this September as Sudeley Castle hosts a special week-long celebration honouring the extraordinary life of Katherine Parr, Henry VIII’s sixth wife and England’s last Tudor queen. Running from 1–7 September 2025, the historic castle will bring her story to life through a series of engaging talks, re-enactments and unique experiences.
Throughout the week, guests can immerse themselves in Tudor history with captivating performances by historical re-enactors in period costume. Expert-led talks will be held in St Mary’s Chapel on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday at 11.30am and 2.30pm, and on Thursday at 2.30pm. On Sunday, visitors can enjoy performances by Past Times in the Chapel at 12.30pm and 2.30pm, along with character meet-and-greets around the castle grounds.
Katherine Parr is remembered as the only wife of Henry VIII to outlive him, and the only English queen to be buried on private land, resting in St Mary’s Chapel at Sudeley Castle. Her remarkable legacy is woven throughout the grounds – from tranquil gardens she once walked to exhibition spaces showcasing rare artefacts connected to her reign.
As part of the celebrations, anyone named Catherine or Katherine (spelled with a C or a K) will enjoy free entry throughout the week, with valid photo ID. This unique gesture allows namesakes of the queen to honour her memory and walk in her footsteps.
Katherine Parr was a true pioneer of female leadership. Acting as Regent-General during Henry’s campaign in France, she played a key role in government, while also helping to reconcile the King with his daughters, Mary and Elizabeth – the latter modelling much of her queenship on Katherine’s example.
Visitors can also take advantage of Sudeley Castle’s new Annual Pass, providing unlimited access throughout the visitor season, exclusive golden hour entry and special events. Passes start at £35 for children and £85 for adults, with a Local Annual Pass available for GL54 residents from £17.50.
For more details on the Katherine Parr celebrations and annual membership options, visit Sudeley Castle.
Explore Gloucestershire
27 August 2025
For further information.
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