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[title]She’s “the only one he ever loved”, but just who is the queen who captured the heart of the King of England? Jane Seymour – third wife of Henry VIII, and widely regarded as the great love of his life – was essentially the Tudor poster girl for tragic endings. A kind, gentle and fiercely loyal woman who gave the king his one and only surviving son, she was also a pillar of strength and support who was responsible for facilitating a reunion with the monarch and his daughter Mary. And then (here comes the sad part) she died from complications of childbirth.
But if an early demise hadn't befallen this beloved queen, what would her perfect day in the city look like? Because we're all for giving Seymour her happily ever after, it involves cute baby animals, crafty delights and plenty of family-friendly fun. Here’s our ultimate guide to spending a day in Melbourne like Jane Seymour.
With a nurturing soul and warm demeanour, it is easy to understand why someone like Seymour would gravitate towards the Collingwood Children’s Farm. This not-for-profit organisation provides care for a menagerie of creatures both great and small, supports people who are facing adversity and offers city kids the chance to experience a taste of farm life. It’s a wonderful spot to spend a morning, especially if you score a snuggle from one of the lambs or time your visit to coincide with the farmers’ market.
As the unofficial mum figure of the Six the Musical gang, Seymour would be in charge of making sure the queens were fed and watered, so a hearty brunch is high on the agenda. For quality produce and friendly service head to Carlton North’s newest hot spot: Florian Eatery. This cosy café does all the brunch classics with flair, like mushies on toast with macadamia cream and Hungarian pickled enoki. You’ll need to channel some of Seymour’s patience, though (remember, this is a woman who served as a lady in waiting and a maid of honour before she made it on the throne), because it’s notoriously hard to snag a table here.
Fun fact: Seymour was actually quite gifted in needlework, so it would make total sense for her to be keen to check out the Rose Street Artists’ Market in Fitzroy. Held every Saturday and Sunday, this is where some of Melbourne’s most talented creators, designers and makers come to show off their wares. You can browse everything from jewellery and ceramics to illustrations, clothing and even pet products. The artists are usually on hand to discuss their work, so you might even get some tips on improving your own skills.
Seymour wanted nothing more than to watch her only son grow up to be king, and a fun-filled family excursion would’ve been a dream come true for her. And if there’s one place that caters for the whole brood, it’s Melbourne Museum – home to many fascinating collections, themed displays and interactive areas. See the exclusive Open Horizons: Ancient Greek Journeys and Connections (an extraordinary showcase of items from the National Archaeological Museum in Athens) until August 14, and don’t miss Horridus – a 67-million-year-old triceratops that is the most complete real dinosaur in Australia.
Next, head to the Comedy Theatre to catch the hottest show in town: Six the Musical, of course! And in true Seymour style, make it a matinee session so that you can still enjoy an early-ish dinner afterwards. This up-tempo production features the six spirited wives of Henry VIII hitting the stage to reclaim their crowns and retell their stories in a rebellious celebration of female empowerment. It’s 75 minutes of pure, pop-tastic fun, with an incredible cast that will blow you away.
Finish off the night with a lovely banquet feast at Longrain, which is conveniently located just around the corner from the theatre. This Thai institution does a mean caramelised pork belly, while the turmeric curry with braised lamb, kipfler potatoes and pickled kohlrabi is another winner. And because Seymour doesn’t mind the odd cheeky cocktail (even a responsible, ever-reliable queen needs to let her hair down once in a while!), be sure to try a Phuket Pash – a lemon-infused vodka concoction with lime, passionfruit and lychee.
Six the Musical is showing at the Comedy Theatre until August 21. To book your tickets, head to the website.