Finchampstead and Word of a Royal Bride

The stretch of the walk between Fleethill Farm and Finchampstead is along an ancient road. According to some sources, it was here, in November 1501, that Henry VII and his sons Arthur and Henry, rode to meet Catherine of Aragon following her arrival from Spain. The King and the two princes had been hunting near by when they learnt that Catherine had reached Henry's hunting lodge at Dogmersfield.

Years earlier, Henry VII had dreamed of a marriage alliance with Spain. The youngest daughter of Ferdinand and Isabella of Spain, Catherine was born in December 1485. She was just nine months older than Prince Arthur. When Catherine was nearly three years old, a treaty was signed which permitted them to marry when they were both of a suitable age.

A member of the enormously powerful Spanish royal family, Catherine was addressed as 'the Princess of Wales' from a very early age. She spent many years preparing for the day when she would finally leave Spain and set sail for England.

Eventually that day dawned, and in September 1501, Catherine began her journey. She would never return to her native Spain. On her arrival at Plymouth, she heard Mass and gave thanks for her safe passage. Meanwhile, a messenger began the lengthy journey to the King's residence at Easthampstead to inform his majesty that the long wait was over.

When word eventually reached Henry and his two sons, they made their way to Dogmersfield, arriving there on the evening of 4 November. But Catherine had retired for the night and would see no one. Deeply suspicious, Henry insisted on seeing her and eventually his wish was granted. Lifting her veil, he was relieved to discover Catherine was a pretty girl, with red gold hair, blue eyes and a fair complexion. Henry thought she was a perfect bride for Arthur.

Ten days later, on 14 November, 1501, Catherine and Arthur were married in St Paul's Cathedral. He was just 15 and she was nearly 16. Little did Catherine realise what lay ahead. Arthur died six months after the wedding and his father passed Catherine on to his younger son, Henry, who duly married his brother's widow in 1509. As the Church forbade such a union, a special dispensation was obtained from the Pope. By about 1527, Henry, now King, was desperate for an heir, but all his children by Catherine, with the exception of one, had died in infancy. Having met and fallen in love with Anne Boleyn, Henry VIII was anxious to dissolve his marriage as soon as possible. The Pope refused to bow to his wishes and it was this decision that eventually triggered the Reformation in England.

Where to eat and drink

The Queen's Oak is handy for a drink and something to eat. Snacks and other fare are available and there is a large enclosed beer garden at the side, pleasantly shaded by trees.

What to look for

Close to the Queen's Oak is another royal connection. Encased by creeper is a plaque which reads: 'The oak tree near this stone was planted 21 June 1887 in commemoration of Queen Victoria's completion of the 50th year of her reign'. The stone was placed here in June 1897 to mark her Diamond Jubilee.

While you're there

Step into Finchampstead church, built on an ancient earthwork with a steep scarp on three sides. The brick tower was either replaced or rebuilt and over the chancel arch are fragments of 12th- and 15th-century wall paintings.