NONSUCH PALACE
Nonsuch Palace was built by Henry VIII. When erecting this building the King destroyed the entire village of Cuddington, including the church and the old manor house. Judging from its name, which signifies “beyond compare,” the palace, when furnished, must have presented a noble appearance. One author waxes quite enthusiastic: “Here Henry VIII, in his magnificence, erected a structure so beautiful, so elegant and so splendid, that in whatever direction the admirer of florid architecture turned his eye he will say that it easily bears off the palm, so great is the emulating Roman Art, so beautiful are the paintings, the sculpture, gildings and decorations of all kinds that you would say it is a sky spangled with stars.”
Paul Hentzer, who described the early London theatres, also took notice of this handsome building and lovely grounds. On the death of the King, Queen Mary sold it to the Earl of Arundel, and in the next reign the noble earl entertained the Queen in right royal state. Balls, masques, and plays were given in alternate evenings, the children of St. Paul’s acting in a play especially composed for the occasion. After this visit the Queen much favoured this beautiful summer retreat, and a few years later she purchased the entire estate from Lord Lumley, the Earl of Arundel’s son-in-law. Elizabeth kept open house here, daily hunting over the neighbouring downs, and in the evenings masques and plays were held; sometimes for divertissement she would dance a galliard with her courtiers. Nonsuch was pulled down in 1671, and the surrounding lands were converted into farms. Even in the present day a residence named Nonsuch House will be found in the neighbourhood.
“1559. A play was performed here before the Queen by the Children of St. Paul’s, under their Master, Sebastian Westcott.”
No other play is mentioned as performed in this Palace.