On the anniversary of Katherine of Aragon’s death, a special commemorative service was held in the Kimbolton School Chapel on 7 January at 3:00pm to honour her life as the first wife of Henry VIII and one of the most compelling figures of the Tudor period. The service marked almost 500 years since her death.
Organised by the Kimbolton Local History Society, the ceremony celebrated Katherine’s resilience, dignity and enduring legacy. Readings and historical reflections explored her significance in English history and her close association with Kimbolton Castle, which stands proudly within our school grounds.
Katherine of Aragon spent her final years at Kimbolton Castle, arriving in May 1534 following her divorce from Henry VIII. She lived her last months as a semi-prisoner in rooms in the south-west corner of the Castle, attended by a small number of loyal servants. The service reflected on this poignant period of her life and her lasting historical impact nearly five centuries later.
The day’s commemoration was supported by coverage from BBC Radio Cambridgeshire, which broadcast an interview on the anniversary with Kimbolton School Headteacher, Will Chuter, and Castle Historian, Andrew Bamford. The interview discussed Katherine’s final years at Kimbolton, the significance of the Castle as her last home, and the importance of remembering her story today as part of daily school life and Kimbolton’s core values.
In addition, Kimbolton Castle featured in a recent episode of The Tudor History & Travel Show podcast. Recorded on location at the Castle, the episode, entitled ‘The Final Days and Death of Katherine of Aragon’, explores the circumstances surrounding her final months, further highlighting Kimbolton’s unique place in Tudor history.
Together, the service, the BBC broadcast interview and the Tudor history podcast have helped to bring renewed attention to Katherine of Aragon’s life, legacy and enduring connection to Kimbolton School.
You can listen to the BBC Radio Cambridgeshire piece, here:
You can listen to The Tudor History & Travel Show podcast, featuring Andrew Bamford, here:
