Elizabeth of Lancaster

Elizabeth of Lancaster, born between early January and 21 February 1363, was the third offspring of John of Gaunt, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and Blanche of Lancaster. In 1378, she was appointed a Lady of the Garter. Elizabeth’s upbringing took place in the royal household of her father, overseen by Katherine Swynford, who Elizabeth greatly respected. Known for her strong-willed and lively nature, Elizabeth contrasted with her more reserved elder sister.

Her first marriage was to John Hastings, 3rd Earl of Pembroke, at Kenilworth Castle when she was seventeen, and the groom was eight. The union was annulled six years later. Elizabeth’s subsequent relationship with John Holland, half-brother to Richard II, led to a hastened marriage after her first marriage’s annulment. Following Holland’s execution in 1400, Elizabeth married Sir John Cornwall, 1st Baron Fanhope and Milbroke, with whom she had a reportedly happy marriage and two children. She passed away in 1426 and was laid to rest at St Mary’s Church, Burford, Shropshire.