What's in a name?

The Bishops of Winchester live on in a number of road names throughout Farnham, but it's especially interesting to note the juxtaposition of Wykeham Road and Beaufort Road.

William Wykeham, gifted and talented in so many areas, was not only Bishop of Winchester, the richest diocese in the country, but was also King Edward Ill's Lord Chancellor. This gave him immense political power which John of Gaunt, the King's illegitimate son, deeply resented. He believed Wykeham should stick to Church business and not meddle in politics. Using his royal connections and the increasing incapacity of his elderly father, King Edward, John of Gaunt managed to strip Wykeham of his considerable wealth and political positions, forcing him to rely on the charity of friends.

However, as events which Gaunt could not control unfolded, and the old King died, Wykeham was eventually restored to favour; a full pardon was granted to him, and his revenues were restored under the new king, Richard II.

Gaunt and Wykeham died within a few years of each other (1399 and 1404 respectively). Two towering men of their age, Gaunt cemented the Plantagenet dynasty as the father and grandfather of the future Henry lV and Henry V, whilst Wykeham's lasting legacy includes Winchester College and New College, Oxford, both of which he founded.

Now, back to the naming of the roads. Wykeham was succeeded as Bishop of Winchester by none other than Gaunt's illegitimate son, Henry Beaufort. These two roads, situated at right angles to each other, meeting, but going in different directions - a coincidence or a reminder of a personal power struggle from times past?

Farnham's Bishop's Palace is filled with stories, fascinating personalities and intriguing insights into our country's history. There are guided tours most Wednesday afternoons from 2pm - 4pm (last tour 3:30pm). If you've admired the Castle from afar, why not see us close up? No need to book. Don't miss this jewel in Farnham's crown.

https://www.farnham-castle.com/