William Hastings

William Hastings, Lord Chamberlain of England

The rise and sudden unexpected fall of William Hastings makes for a colourful story. Yet it is lost amongst the great tales told of Edward IV and Richard III. William rose from a mere Squire to be a Peer of the Realm, a great Landowner and Lord Chamberlain.

William was very close to King Edward IV and for many years perhaps the second most influential man in the Kingdom. He fulfilled many roles including politician, administrator, soldier, diplomat, businessman, landowner and lord. Everything he had was due to Edward who he served loyally for over two decades from 1461 to 1483.

William supported Edward at or after Mortimer's Cross, was knighted at Towton, commanded wings of Edward's army at Barnet and Tewkesbury. William was the Head of the Royal Household. William wined, dined and more with Edward and fell out of favour with Queen Elizabeth Woodville for so doing.

Edward IV died unexpectedly in April 1483. William suddenly found himself caught between the Woodvilles, and the future Richard III, with whom he chose to ally. William was executed for treason and was buried in the north aisle of St George's Chapel at Windsor alongside his lifetime friend Edward IV.