June 21 – Henry VIII goes to the Tower, and Lady Jane Grey is chosen as Edward VI’s successor

On this day in Tudor history, 21st June 1509, the new king, the nearly 18-year-old Henry VIII, travelled from Greenwich to the Tower of London.

Why was Henry VIII going to the Tower?

Let me explain...

And on this day in Tudor history, 21st June 1553, in the reign of King Edward VI, letters patent were issued stating that the dying king's heir was Lady Jane Grey.

Jane was the eldest daughter of Edward's cousin, Frances Grey (née Brandon), Duchess of Suffolk.

Why was Lady Jane Grey his heir when Edward had two half-sisters, Mary and Elizabeth, and who else was listed in his "devise for the succession".

Find out more about Edward VI's plan for the succession...