Henry VIII gets Civic reception and Tudor Cathedral service in Exeter

Published: 13 June 2024

Henry VIII was the guest of honour in Exeter during a national project to reenact his journeys around the realm.

Led by Historic Royal Palaces, Henry VIII on Tour aims to further the study and interpretation of the Tudors in schools and heritage sites.

As well as contributing to our understanding of the famous King, his wives and court and the relationship with his people in historical terms, the project is reflecting on what monarchy and visibility means to people today.

Even though King Henry VIII never visited Exeter during his reign, he had strong links to the city. His assumed itinerary was carefully recreated with visits to the historic Guildhall and Exeter Cathedral.

A reception was held at the Guildhall hosted by the Lord Mayor, and the guest of honour was an actor playing the young King Henry VIII. The Civic party then processed to the Cathedral and were greeted with ceremonial Tudor music and a Tudor Service.

In 1497 Exeter’s citizens successfully resisted the rebel army of Perkin Warbeck, who besieged Exeter in his bid to win the English throne from Henry VII.

Grateful for the city’s loyalty, Henry awarded symbols of his special favour: the Cap of Maintenance and the Ceremonial Sword.

The original cap, of simple black felt without a brim, may have been the king’s own and was intended to signify a close personal tie between the giver and the receiver.

Along with the Cap of Maintenance, Henry also gave a sword - a symbol of nobility and bravery. Exeter’s Cap and Sword were ceremonially presented to King Henry VIII.

On Saturday 15 June a lavish banquet will take place in the Tudor splendour of Exeter’s historic Guildhall.