Terrible Tudors at Hampton Court Palace this May half term

This May half term, join Historic Royal Palaces at Hampton Court Palace, as the world of the Terrible Tudors comes to life in Henry VIII’s back garden with a theatrical production by the Birmingham Stage Company. From the horrible Henries to the end of ‘evil’ Elizabeth, hear the legend (and the lies!) about the Terrible Tudors, right where the real drama happened.

Terrible Tudors offers the history-hungry the chance to revel in over 100 years of Tudor history – from the bloody Battle of Bosworth in 1485 to the crowning of James I in 1603 – in all its drama, danger and delight that tells theatre of how the first Terrible Tudor came to the throne and his son Henry's succession of poor, put-upon wives.

From the Spanish and staunchly Catholic Catherine of Aragon to Catherine Parr, who found six to be a lucky number, discover what happened to each Queen as the famously fickle King tired of them. Meet the elegant Anne Boleyn - history’s most famous second wife – and learn the romantic reason behind Henry’s fateful falling out with the Pope. And in true Horrible Histories style, expect guts, gore and lots and lots of humour of the kind you won't find in school.


Performances last 1 hour and take place in the palace’s historic East Front Gardens, once the pleasure grounds of the Tudor monarchs. All performances are open-air and with unreserved grass seating – you are welcome to bring a blanket, as you’re in for a bumpy historical ride!

Suitable for ages 6-12