Hampton Court Courtyard

This was where the Queen was insulted by Lord Hunsdon.

Location: Hampton Court, London

Description: In 1599 Elizabeth paid her last visit to Hampton Court, as determined as ever to be young and frivolous. She was seen through a window by Lord Hunsdon dancing a Spanish dance, none being with her but the Lady Warwick.

The Scottish Ambassador also reported that when she left Hampton Court she wished to go on horseback as usual from this courtyard, though she was 'scarce able to sit upright,' and 'the day being passing foul, my Lord Hunsdon said It was not meet for one of Her Majesty's years to ride in such a storm.

She answered in great anger, My years! Maids, to your horses quickly, and so rode all the way.' As she passed Kingston an old man fell on his knees praying God 'that she might live a hundred years, which pleased her so as it might come to pass.'

Three and a half years later Elizabeth died at Richmond Palace.

Themes: Royalty Royalty Theme