Pack your finest doublets and gowns, time travellers, because we’re heading to London for a royal wedding that changed the course of English history. On January 18, 1485, Henry VII, the first Tudor king, married Elizabeth of York, uniting the warring houses of Lancaster and York after three decades of bloody conflict known as the Wars of the Roses.
This city break offers a front-row seat to the wedding that symbolised peace, cemented the Tudor dynasty, and gave us a rose with a dash of PR flair. Let’s dive into the festivities and the politics behind the most strategic nuptials in medieval England.
Why Visit London in January 1485?
London in the late 15th century is bustling with medieval grandeur, its streets alive with the energy of a city celebrating a new era. Henry VII’s reign has just begun after his victory at the Battle of Bosworth Field, and his marriage to Elizabeth of York marks the symbolic end of the Wars of the Roses.
For Londoners, this union brings hope for peace and stability after years of dynastic chaos. For history buffs, it’s a chance to witness the blending of two rival royal lines into a single, enduring dynasty: the Tudors.
Your Itinerary
Day 1: Prepare for the Wedding
Start your journey with a visit to the Tower of London, where much of the intrigue surrounding the Wars of the Roses played out. The Tower housed kings, queens, and claimants to the throne—and not all of them left alive. Wander through the White Tower, marvel at the royal jewels, and ponder the fate of the missing Princes in the Tower, Edward V and Richard of Shrewsbury.
In the afternoon, stroll along Cheapside, where London’s merchants are abuzz with wedding excitement. Stop at a market stall for some medieval delicacies—honey cakes, mead, and perhaps a steaming bowl of pottage to keep warm.
Day 2: The Royal Wedding at Westminster Abbey
Make your way to Westminster Abbey, the site of Henry and Elizabeth’s grand wedding. The abbey is bedecked with tapestries, candles, and fresh greenery in honour of the union. The atmosphere is jubilant, with nobles, courtiers, and clergy gathered to witness the moment that will unite England’s rival factions.
The ceremony is a blend of solemnity and spectacle. Henry VII, dressed in regal finery, looks every inch the victor, while Elizabeth, radiant in a gown of cloth of gold, symbolises the House of York’s submission to the new dynasty. As the couple exchanges vows, the crowd erupts in cheers, and the Tudor Rose, a fusion of the red rose of Lancaster and the white rose of York, becomes the new emblem of unity.
After the ceremony, follow the procession to a lavish feast at Westminster Hall, where roasted swan, spiced wine, and sugared confections are served amid music and merriment.
Who Were Henry VII and Elizabeth of York?
Henry VII was the last serious claimant of the House of Lancaster. His victory at Bosworth in August 1485 ended Richard III’s brief reign and brought an end to the Wars of the Roses. A shrewd and pragmatic ruler, Henry sought to consolidate his power through marriage and the careful balancing of rival factions.
Elizabeth of York, the eldest daughter of Edward IV, was a prize in her own right. Her Yorkist lineage gave her a strong claim to the throne, and her marriage to Henry VII legitimised his reign in the eyes of Yorkist loyalists. Together, they embodied the reconciliation of England’s bitterly divided nobility.
Why This Wedding Matters
The marriage of Henry VII and Elizabeth of York marked a turning point in English history. It symbolised the end of decades of civil war and the beginning of the Tudor dynasty, which would rule for over a century. Their union also set the stage for an era of relative stability, economic growth, and cultural flourishing—including the English Renaissance under their grandson, Henry VIII, and great-granddaughter, Elizabeth I.
Politically savvy, this marriage wasn’t just a love story—it was a masterstroke of diplomacy that neutralised opposition and established the Tudors as England’s unchallenged rulers.
Travel Tips for 1485 London
- Dress to Impress: This is a royal wedding, so don your finest medieval attire—velvets, silks, and plenty of gold trim.
- Mind the Streets: London’s medieval roads can be muddy and crowded, so keep an eye on your belongings and watch your step.
- Bring a Gift: A small token for the royal couple (perhaps a gilded trinket or embroidered cloth) will ensure you blend in with the nobles.
What’s on the Menu?
Feasting is central to medieval celebrations, and this royal wedding is no exception. Look for:
- Roast Peacock or Swan: Served with feathers reattached for dramatic effect.
- Marchpane: A sweet almond confection sculpted into elaborate shapes.
- Spiced Wine: Warm, mulled wine infused with cinnamon and cloves.
Fun Trivia About Henry and Elizabeth’s Marriage
- Did you know? Henry and Elizabeth were distant relatives. Their shared ancestor was John of Gaunt, making this union both dynastic and slightly awkward.
- Odd but true: The marriage agreement was finalised months before the ceremony, ensuring Yorkist support for Henry’s claim to the throne.
- Legacy: Their children included Henry VIII, who famously had six wives, and Margaret Tudor, whose descendants would unite the crowns of England and Scotland.
Want to Know More?
Books
- The Winter King: Henry VII and the Dawn of Tudor England by Thomas Penn.
- Elizabeth of York: A Tudor Queen and Her World by Alison Weir.
Articles
- “The Wars of the Roses: A Dynastic Struggle” in History Today.
- “How the Tudor Rose United England” by the Royal Historical Society.
Web Resources
- Historic Royal Palaces: www.hrp.org.uk
- Westminster Abbey’s History: www.westminster-abbey.org
The Final Word
January 18, 1485, wasn’t just a wedding—it was the beginning of a dynasty. Visiting London during this historic moment offers a unique opportunity to witness the marriage that united a war-torn kingdom and laid the foundation for one of history’s most famous royal families.
Whether you’re admiring Westminster’s splendour, indulging in a medieval feast, or reflecting on the Tudor legacy, this city break promises a mix of romance, politics, and plenty of pomp.
Have you attended a historic wedding or seen a dynasty in its infancy? Share your tales—we’ll toast your adventures with a goblet of spiced wine!
