Kenilworth Castle - Robert Dudley

Who was Robert Dudley?

Robert Dudley was the Earl of Leicester and was considered the favourite of Queen Elizabeth.

When did Robert Dudley join the Privy Council?

He was appointed to the Privy Council in October 1562.

Who was Robert Dudley's father?

Robert Dudley's father was John Dudley, who was executed in 1553 for attempting to oppose Mary I's succession.

What was Robert Dudley's family like?

The Dudleys were very proud of their ancestry and would display their family emblem wherever possible. They were also very close and loyal to each other.

What was the controversy surrounding Robert Dudley?

Robert Dudley was a potential marriage suitor for Elizabeth. However, his first wife, Amy Robsart, was found dead at Cumnor Place after apparently falling down the stairs. Some believed Dudley was involved in her death.

What was Robert Dudley's relationship with Elizabeth like?

Elizabeth and Dudley's relationship changed over time:

• ❖ Dudley was born in 1532 and Elizabeth in 1533. They had known each other since they were children.
• ❖ They befriended each other during the reign of Mary I, when they were both under threat.
• ❖ When Elizabeth came to the throne she immediately appointed Dudley as Master of the Horse. He assisted the queen whenever they went riding.
• ❖ Despite Dudley being married already, there were rumours about the two of them being lovers.
• ❖ In 1560 his wife died in suspicious circumstances. Many thought this was his chance to marry the queen, but lingering suspicions over his involvement meant Elizabeth could never marry him.
• ❖ Elizabeth gifted him Kenilworth Castle in 1563, and a year later gave him the title Earl of Leicester.
• ❖ In 1573 he was rumoured to have married Lady Sheffield. The two did have an affair and she bore him a son.
• ❖ In 1578 he privately married the queen's cousin, Lettice Knollys, which made Elizabeth furious.
• ❖ Despite this, they reconciled their friendship and remained friends until Dudley's death in 1588.