About this episode

Tracy Borman explores the life of Thomas Cromwell and his role in the Reformation during the Tudor period.

Thomas Cromwell might have pulled off the most meteoric social climb of the 16th century. From the rough shores of Putney to the illustrious court of Henry VIII, his journey to power reveals so much about the opportunities and dangers of the Tudor period. In this final episode of our series on Henry VIII's ministers, Tracy Borman explores the real story of a man often seen as a villain. Joined by Chief Curator Eleri Lynn, she discusses the Reformation, Anne Boleyn, and Cromwell's all-important relationship with Henry VIII. Turn on video on Spotify, or watch this episode on YouTube to see Tracy and Eleri in the amazing Tudor Great Hall at Hampton Court Palace.

People in this episode

Host: Tracy Borman

Guest: Eleri Lynn

Topics covered

• Thomas Cromwell
• Reformation
• Tudor period
• Henry VIII
• social climb
• historical analysis

Keywords

• Thomas Cromwell
• Reformation
• Tudor history
• Henry VIII
• Anne Boleyn
• social climb
• historical podcast

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Henry VIII

Places: Putney, Hampton Court Palace

More episodes of Historic Royal Palaces Podcast

• What Happened to Anne Boleyn's Family After Her Fall? · June 10, 2026 · 53 min
• Growing Up in the House of Boleyn · June 3, 2026 · 52 min
• Thomas More – The Man Who Defied Henry VIII? · May 6, 2026 · 50 min

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