Geograph - photograph every grid square

One of the best preserved and most poignant parts of Bradgate House is Lady Jane's Tower at the south eastern corner of the site. Lady Jane Grey was the great granddaughter of Henry VII and lived here as a child; it is said that she used to visit this tower as a retreat, perhaps from her over-bearing and ambitious parents. She had the terrible misfortune to become embroiled in the power struggle that ensued after the death of Edward VI and the attempt to prevent Mary Tudor, a Catholic, from acceding to the throne. Jane was declared Queen in 1553 four days after the death of Edward with the support of her father-in-law the protestant Duke of Northumberland. But Mary had the better claim and more widespread support; Jane's 'reign' lasted only nine days. Jane was imprisoned and beheaded for high treason in February 1554 at the age of only 16.