Church of St Mary and All Saints, Fotheringhay

The Church of St Mary and All Saints in Fotheringhay is a medieval parish church with a distinctive octagonal lantern tower standing between the River Nene and Willow Brook. Inside, fan-vaulted ceilings and elaborately decorated tombs from the Elizabethan period showcase the work of prominent families.

This church originated in the Middle Ages and later became a burial place for the Dukes of York during the Wars of the Roses. In 1476, Richard III brought his father and brother here for reburial, establishing it as a family mausoleum.

The painted pulpit displays the arms of House Plantagenet alongside Yorkist symbols: a white boar, white lion, and black bull representing royal heritage. These heraldic marks tell the story of the royal family whose memory is woven into the building itself.

The building underwent extensive renovation in 2017-2018 with modern heating, storage areas, and restrooms for visitors. The updated facilities make it comfortable to spend time exploring the interior at your own pace.

Elizabeth I funded the creation of elaborate tombs for Duke Richard and Earl Edmund, decorated with Falcon and Fetterlock symbols representing fulfilled duty. This royal patronage underscores the dynasty's connection to the place and its occupants.

Location: Fotheringhay

Inception: 1370

GPS coordinates: 52.52586,-0.43907

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:55