Royal Hall

Two queens. One crown. A decision that would change the monarchy forever.

After the success of their 2026 tour, acclaimed historians Suzannah Lipscomb and Kate Williams are back on tour for this unmissable live event exploring Mary, Queen of Scots and Elizabeth I—two women caught in one of the greatest political and personal crises of the 16th century.

Working back from the fall of the axe at Fotheringhay Castle, the discussion explores the chain of events and decisions that led Elizabeth to sign her cousin’s death warrant. What went so wrong between these two women? Why was Elizabeth so threatened—and could this tragedy have been avoided?

Through vivid storytelling, drawing on the latest research, Kate and Suzannah will examine espionage, treason and gender politics in the Tudor world, from William Cecil’s spy networks and Mary’s defiant embroideries to the Babington Plot. They’ll challenge how male historians have long pitted these women against each other and will reframe their choices as acts of courage and consequence.

A gripping evening of queenship, legacy and power, this is the story of how two queens acted at the greatest crisis point of their lives.

This is a Harrogate Theatre event. For ticketing enquiries please contact Harrogate Theatre at boxoffice@harrogatetheatre.co.uk or 01423 502116.

PLEASE NOTE: The Royal Hall and Harrogate Convention Centre are able to accept card and contactless payments only.