An Evening with Helen Castor: The Eagle and the Hart
Renowned medieval historian Helen Castor explores the fateful relationship between the complex King Richard II and his usurper cousin King Henry IV in this thought-provoking talk with live Q&A.
Experience the beauty of Westminster Abbey after hours by joining us in the historic Lady Chapel for a thought-provoking talk on medieval kingship followed by a live Q&A.
Within metres of Richard II’s tomb, celebrated medieval history expert Helen Castor will explore the strange dynamic between two monarchs whose struggle for power nearly brought the nation to the brink of catastrophe.
At this exclusive event, celebrating the paperback launch of Helen’s acclaimed book The Eagle and the Hart, hear about the events that led up to Henry IV’s dramatic rebellion against Richard II and discover how this familial power struggle changed the course of English history forever.
About Helen Castor
Helen Castor is an acclaimed medieval and Tudor historian, a Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature and a Fellow Commoner of Sidney Sussex College, Cambridge. Her books include the prize-winning Blood & Roses, She-Wolves: The Women Who Ruled England before Elizabeth, and Joan of Arc, dubbed ‘a triumph of history’. She has presented a range of radio and television programmes for the BBC and Channel 4, including documentaries based on She-Wolves and Joan of Arc. Her new book, The Eagle and the Hart, tells the story of the tumultuous reigns of Richard II and Henry IV.
Ticketing information
This event does not include entry to Westminster Abbey. We recommend looking at the Visit us pages to plan a visit during opening hours.
Age suitability
This event is for adults and young people over the age of 16, please see our family pages for information and events to explore this theme as a family.
Timings
You are welcome to attend Evensong at 5:00pm before the talk.
Doors will open at 6:30pm and the talk will begin at 7:00pm.
This will be followed by an audience Q&A from 7:45pm.
Following the Q&A, there will be a book signing until 8:30pm
Access and security
Please have your ticket ready to show our staff (either printed or on your mobile phone).
On your arrival, your bag will be searched and we ask you not to bring any large items with you (for example suitcases, large backpacks or folding bicycles) as these will not be allowed inside and we are unable to store them for you.
Please be aware that the Lady Chapel is located up a flight of 12 medium-height steps.
The Abbey is committed to creating inclusive and accessible events for all. If you have any access requirements or questions about your visit, please contact us when booking. [email protected]
Filming and photography
Please note that filming and sound recording are not permitted at the Abbey. See our photography policy for more information.
