Dan Snow's History Hit Henry VIII's Tudor Christmas
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Dec 11, 2024 
Tracy Borman, Chief Curator at Historic Royal Palaces, and Richard Fitch from the Historic Kitchens Team explore the extravagant Christmas celebrations of Henry VIII. They reveal how the King feasted on lavish dishes like roast swan and venison pasties, famously spending £13 million on festivities. The discussion unveils the complex interplay of festive traditions, from the grandeur of the royal court to the simpler celebrations of commoners, and the essential role of kitchens in Tudor charity and communal dining.
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Hampton Court's Royal Status
- English monarchs never settled on one palace, but Hampton Court became a key residence.
- Its location near hunting grounds and the Thames made it ideal for Henry VIII.
Henry VIII's Additions
- Henry VIII enlarged Hampton Court, focusing on kitchens and sports facilities.
- He decorated it for Anne Boleyn, some of whose emblems still remain.
Tudor Christmas Festivities
- Tudor Christmas was a major event, celebrated for 12 days with feasts and decorations.
- Hampton Court's Great Hall hosted these festivities, though also served as a staff canteen.