Mary of Waltham

Mary of Waltham, born on 10 October 1344, was the daughter of King Edward III of England and Philippa of Hainault. She became the Duchess of Brittany through her marriage to John IV, Duke of Brittany, and was known in England as ‘John V’ and ‘The Conqueror’. Mary was made a Lady of the Garter in 1378. Her birth took place at Bishop’s Waltham Palace, Hampshire, and she was raised alongside her future husband in the royal nursery, an arrangement stemming from her father’s diplomatic efforts to strengthen his claim to the French throne.

Mary was betrothed to John since birth and was considered titular Duchess of Brittany from a very young age. They were married at Woodstock Palace around 3 July 1361. Despite the marriage, Mary’s situation remained unchanged as she continued to reside at the English court. She developed a lethargic disease and died before 13 September 1361 without ever traveling to Brittany. Her burial took place in Abingdon Abbey, Berkshire.