Search Historic Royal Palaces

Henry VIII: heads and hearts - an introduction

Join King Henry for his wedding celebrations at Hampton Court Palace
From 10 April 2009

Step back in time

What if you could take part in one of the great events of history and rub shoulders with the celebrities of the past? Well now you can!

Come to Hampton Court Palace and commemorate 500 years since Henry VIII's accession to the English throne. Be part of the celebrations of Henry's wedding to his sixth wife, Kateryn Parr, a truly unique daily experience. Video: Click here to watch the trailer of Henry VIII: heads and hearts »

Henry VIII takes a sixth bride

England’s five times unlucky but still most eligible widower/divorcé will be tying the knot at his favourite home, Hampton Court Palace. Meet his beautiful bride to be, Kateryn Parr, help her to make the decision which will change her life and advise her on her wedding dress. Commiserate with her disappointed ex, hear the behind the scenes gossip from those who know the couple best and learn what it takes to be a Tudor A-lister.

Order of service

Click here to see the order of service for the marriage of His Majesty King Henry VIII to Kateryn Parr at Hampton Court Palace.

Henry VIII's Tapestries Revealed

See how our conservation scientists have recreated the original dazzling colours on one of Henry's most magnificent tapestries. Shows five times daily. Click here to find out more >

Other special events

Celebrate Henry’s loves and passions and see Hampton Court Palace come alive with an unmissable programme of spectacular celebrations, live re-enactments and special events throughout 2009. From Tudor cookery to a Tudor music festival, there is something for everyone. Click here for more information >

Take a piece of Henry home

Why not take something home for yourself or that special someone? There is a fabulous range of specially crafted memorabilia for Henry VIII: heads and hearts. Click here for more information >

Message board

If Henry VIII was still alive today, but wasn't a king, what do you think he would be? A gangster, rock star or politician?. We would love to hear your thoughts. Click here to visit the Henry VIII: heads and hearts message board >

Find out more

Click here to find out more about Henry VIII: heads and hearts and the King's own loves and passions.

Joust in a tournament for Henry VIII and his new bride, Kateryn Parr, in our online game. Play the game now >

Prepare to meet the King

Visiting Henry's court is full of pitfalls for the unwary. Make sure you prepare well in advance to make a big impression on the King and his new Queen. Here are some tips to help you prepare...

How to greet the King

Don’t forget to bow or curtsey whenever you enter the royal presence.

How to greet the King Gentlemen, you may either fall to your knees or show off your well turned legs with one of these continental bows which are just coming into fashion.

Ladies, practice curtseying as low as you can go.
Best tone up those calves, as you will need to stay bowed until the royal couple pass. It’s also considered bad form if you don't bow or curtsey three times before you leave their presence. The more agile courtier can do this whilst walking backwards but, whatever you do, don't ever turn your back on the King.

Gentlemen, remember to take off your hats or even throw them in the air! A few shouts of ‘God save the King and Queen!’ should go down well too. You can never be too respectful if you want to get on at Court.

Video: Watch our videos on how to bow and curtsey »

How to dress for Court

What are the best dressed people of 1543 wearing?

There will be Tudor gowns available for all guests to wear around the palace, but you may like to make some preparations beforehand. Only the highest members of society, like yourselves, are allowed bright colours and rich fabrics for their clothes. Make sure the servants accompanying you wear dowdy and drab clothes as fixed by law. This will help show off the expense and elegance of your own wardrobe.

Take a look at what the best dressed women are wearing by following the link below (not you, Your Majesty – it’s bad luck to see the bride’s dress before the wedding – you know what happened last time!).