This is a sponsored article on behalf of the British Library.
Related by blood, divided by faith: the tale of Elizabeth I and Mary, Queen of Scots' deadly relationship is one that has enthralled history lovers for centuries.
With its critically-acclaimed exhibition, Elizabeth & Mary: Royal Cousins, Rival Queens, the British Library invites you to step into a 16th century London filled with intrigue and treachery. Watch the tumultuous relationship between Elizabeth and Mary unfold, by way of original manuscripts, paintings, letters and personal items belonging to the queens and their closest confidants — some never seen in public before.
Pore over the books and bibles, which were published and peddled in the capital 500 years ago. Step into the Elizabethan Houses of Parliament to discover MPs scheming behind the Queen's back. Read the letter Elizabeth wrote before she was imprisoned by her sister Mary I in the Tower of London. Watch the Virgin Queen's coronation procession, then fast-forward in time to join the mourners at her funeral 45 years later.
Forget what you've seen in the movies: Elizabeth & Mary: Royal Cousins, Rival Queens uses real objects, artefacts and evidence to reveal the most intimate and desperate moments of these two figureheads, and the events that led to their deaths.
But there's not much time to catch this blockbuster show, which was awarded ★★★★★ by The Times. Elizabeth & Mary: Royal Cousins, Rival Queens is only on until February 2022, so start planning your visit now.
All visitors get £2 off when they book online. There are also half-price discounts for seniors, students, young people, and registered unemployed visitors visiting the exhibition Mondays-Wednesdays*. Disabled visitors and Art Pass holders get 50% any day of the week.
Elizabeth & Mary: Royal Cousins, Rival Queens, British Library, until 20 February 2022
*Excludes bank holidays and school holidays.
