A celebration of Tudor times

The Katharine of Aragon Festival, which runs from January 28 - 31, is a collaboration between Peterborough Cathedral and Vivacity Peterborough.

Katharine of Aragon, the first wife of Henry VIII, was buried at Peterborough Cathedral on January 29, 1536, and this important link with Tudor history is commemorated every year .

Schoolchildren, families and history enthusiasts are all invited to enjoy the Festival events at Peterborough Cathedral and Peterborough Museum.

On the Friday at around 10am a procession of civic dignitaries, schoolchildren and the period musicians of Hautbois will proceed from Peterborough Museum to the Cathedral for a Service of Commemoration. During the service wreaths will be laid on Katharine of Aragon’s tomb, and her moving last letter to Henry VIII will be read.

In the evening, TV historian and writer Dr Jonathan Foyle will give an illustrated talk about “The forgotten origins of the Tudor rose”.

Dr Foyle, one of the panellists on BBC2’s Great History Quiz on Christmas Eve and is a former curator at Hampton Court, will explain some of the mysteries behind the Tudor rose symbol in King Henry and Queen Katharine’s time.

Before the talk a Tudor-style Pottage and Ale supper will be served in the Becket Chapel at the cathedral, served by staff in Tudor costume, with Tudor music from Hautbois.

At Peterborough Museum on the 30th and 31st visitors will be able to travel back in time and discover what life was like “At home with the Tudors”. With the help of historical re-enactors they will be able to handle arms and armour, try Tudor food and hear about some of the gruesome cures offered by the Barber Surgeon.

For more call the cathedral on 01733 355315 www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk