Lunchtime Talk: Margaret Beaufort - Survivor, Rebel, Conspirator
Historian Lauren Johnson explores the extraordinary life of Lady Margaret Beaufort, the driving force behind the Tudor dynasty, in this revealing talk.
Join Lauren Johnson as she traces the life of one of the most remarkable and influential women of the Middle Ages, Lady Margaret Beaufort. With a particular focus on motherhood and kingship, discover how she navigated family, faith and politics and how her influence helped to secure a new royal future for England.
About the Lunchtime Talk Series
Held on the second Wednesday of every month at St Margaret’s Church, our Lunchtime Talk series invites visitors to explore different aspects of Westminster Abbey’s rich history. Each talk features expert speakers and unique perspectives, perfect for anyone interested in art, architecture, and heritage.
About Laura Johnson
Lauren Johnson is a public historian and author of works including the critically acclaimed Shadow King: The Life and Death of Henry VI and Margaret Beaufort: Survivor, Rebel, Kingmaker. Lauren graduated with a First Class degree in History and an MSt in Medieval Historical Research from Wadham College, Oxford University. Her thesis explored the impact of the Wars of the Roses on women. She is currently studying for an AHRC-funded Collaborative Doctorate with Manchester Metropolitan University and the National Archives investigating ‘Refugees, Religion and Diplomacy in Early Modern Europe’. With a passion for restoring marginalised narratives to our History, she has worked in heritage since 2008 and acted as Historical Consultant for creative and heritage producers including Historic Royal Palaces, Wellcome Library, Sky History and the Royal Shakespeare Company.
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.
If you would like to look around the rest of the Abbey during your visit then we recommend you do so before you attend the Lunchtime Talk. This is to allow you enough time to see as much as possible.
Free for Associates but booking is required. Admission will be granted upon presentation of a valid Association membership card.
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
Doors will open at 12:45pm and the talk will begin at 1:00pm. There will be time for an audience Q&A from 1:40pm.
Meeting location
This event takes place in St Margaret's Church, please follow main visitor entry route through the security check where the event will be signposted.
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.
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 in St Margaret's. See our photography policy for more information.
