Hampton Court - A Wealth of History

2007: The Tudors - Michael Hirst

Financial planning done well might include planning ahead for those special events in life. As an Independent Financial Adviser based locally near Wimbledon, I'm on the doorstep of many wonderful treats. One is Hampton Court Palace, which is only a few minutes away and is obviously of great historical significance. Hampton Court was originally effectively a Bank and Accounts depot - well storage and accounting, used by the Knights Hospitallers since 1236. It wasn't for about another 300 years before Cardinal Wolsey, the Lord Chancellor of England transformed the buildings into a Palace (designed for diplomatic entertaining) though of course famously lost the favour of Henry VIII.

Wolsey himself was rather wealthy, in his day a career in the church was highly lucrative. As a Cardinal he was arguably superior to even the Archbishop of Canterbury. Wolsey was also responsible for introducing better accounting of personal wealth - so that it could be properly taxed with his tax "The Subsidy" which was at a rate of one shilling per pound. This made taxes rather fairer to the poor and enabled significant sums to be collected to fund Henry VIII's lifestyle and exploits.

Every year Hampton Court welcomes thousands of new visitors to experience a taste of history and the magnificent Palace created by Wolsey and Henry VIII. Given the passage of time and it is possible to turn a one time accountancy hall into a vibrant festival of music. The Hampton Court Palace Festival has announced that Liza Minnelli will be performing the opening act of the 2012 festival on Thursday 14th June. It is the 20th anniversary of the festival this year and the organisers are delighted to have Liza Minnelli begin the celebrations. The festival runs throughout June and the line up of acts is increasing. So far these include Jools Holland and His Rhythm and Blues Orchestra, a Classical Gala and Fireworks, James Morrison, Caro Emerald, Katie Melua, Franki Valli and the Four Seasons. Tickets are now on sale.