St Olave Lecture - The Hidden History & Legacy of Tudor Espionage

Sally Gibbins, Principal of the Francis Bacon Society, reveals the hidden world of Tudor Spies and intrigue centred around St Olave Hart St St Olave’s Lecture: The Hidden History & Legacy of Tudor Espionage Tuesday 22nd September 2026 Choral Evensong (free to attend) 5.30pm-6.15pm St Olave Lecture (Tickets £5) 6.30pm-7.30pm. Sally Gibbins, Principal of the Francis Bacon Society, joins us to talk about the hidden world of Tudor Spies and intrigue centred around St Olave’s Hart Street. Step back in time and discover the shadowy world of Tudor espionage nestled in the heart of London. From the secretive corners of St Olave’s Hart Street to Walsingham House opposite to the imposing presence of the nearby Tower of London, this talk reveals how plots, spies, and whispered intrigues shaped the fate of a nation and gave birth to the present-day intelligence services. With music, letters and readings from the Tudor period, we will explore the important connections among notable parishioners of St Olave’s, including Elizabeth I’s spymaster Sir Francis Walsingham, poet Sir Philip Sidney, statesman Sir Francis Bacon, his brother cryptographer and spy Anthony Bacon, and court favourite the Earl of Essex. The histories associated with these people and landmarks highlight the complex relationships and activities that shaped the perilous political affairs of the Tudor era and would leave a lasting legacy to the world of espionage and national security. Join us every month for insight, history and thoughtful conversation in the spectacular surroundings of our medieval church. Discover other talks in our programme at this link.