News from the Old Royal Navy College at Greenwich:

A weekend of Tudor-themed festivities will take place in Greenwich to help mark the 500th anniversary of Henry VIII’s accession and coronation.

Jointly organised by Greenwich Council and the Greenwich Foundation for the Old Royal Naval College, ‘Henry Days’ will take place on Saturday June 13th and Sunday June 14th at the Old Royal Naval College and is a part of “The Story of London”, a month-long celebration of the city’s past, present and future.

The Old Royal Naval College is the former site of Greenwich Palace, the birthplace of Henry VIII and his main residence of choice throughout his reign as the King of England.
The weekend of activities will be suitable for all the family and will offer a wonderful opportunity to learn first hand about Henry and Tudor life.

The huge range of activities on show will include actors re-enacting a typical 15th century hunting parade, knights battling each other in combat in the extensive grounds of the College as well as opportunities for visitors to test their archery skills, join in Tudor dancing and feast at a Tudor food court.

There will also be face painting and flag making workshops running throughout the day, a range of games and entertainment suitable for children and lots of other activities.
All outdoor performances will be free of charge.

Full news release

I’ve also added Simon Thurley’s lecture (which I would LOVE to attend!) and the Henry VIII days events to the anniversary calendar.

By the way, if any of you happen to be in the area, but sure to visit the Royal Observatory at Greenwich and help them celebrate another big anniversary – the first use of the telescope for astronomical observations in 1609 and the International Year of Astronomy.