Perhaps the best-known family in English royal history, the Tudors helped to make England one of the world’s leading colonial powers. Discover more about how the Tudor dynasty helped to shape Britain, from promoting global trade and industry, to establishing England’s first national navy.

Find out more about Henry VIII

Find out more about Elizabeth I

22 Dec 2021
Three portraits, one unique display – the Armada Portraits of Elizabeth I
In February 2020, the three surviving Armada portraits of Queen Elizabeth I went on display together for the first time in their history. As the National Portrait Gallery’s portrait leaves Greenwich, we reflect on what we learned from bringing the three paintings together.
How to bring Queen Elizabeth I to Life
Make learning fun with this dressing-up activity. You will be able to construct Elizabeth’s image by choosing outfits from Her Majesty’s extensive wardrobe.
Mary I facts and myths
During her turbulent life, Mary I became the first ruling queen of England and attempted to restore the Catholic faith. 'But was she really known as Bloody Mary'? Find out more about the facts and myths surrounding her reign
The Spanish Armada: history, causes and timeline
Learn more about the defining moment of Elizabeth I's reign
Greenwich Palace and the Tudors
Situated beside the River Thames, Greenwich had been a popular royal residence for centuries
Why are there three versions of the Armada Portrait?
Did you know there are three versions of the 'Armada Portrait' of Elizabeth I? Take a closer look at the different faces of a Queen...
Queens of the Queen’s House
Greenwich has been a key location for the royal family for over 500 years
Henry VII | Where was he born and how did he die?
Henry VII is known for being the first Tudor King, and for being the father of King Henry VIII. A shrewd king, he gathered huge wealth for the Crown
Tudor fashion
Do you know your Spanish farthingale from your Drum? Or your English hood from your French? Types of Tudor fashion evolved throughout the period.
08 Jul 2016
Elizabeth I and the build-up to the Spanish Armada 1588
On 22 July 1588 the Spanish Armada, a force of 130 ships and 18,000 men, left northern Spain and headed for the English Channel. Its objective was to rendezvous with a large army assembled in the Netherlands, commanded by the Duke of Parma