Royal Bolthole

On my spring visit to London, I came across the site of King Edward III’s manor house by the Thames at Rotherhithe, above. Back in the 1350s, this was a mere hamlet, the relatively modest house occupying a small island looking onto the great river. On my summer visit, I stumbled across Cheyne Mews, below, which was the site of King Henry VIII’s beloved manor house at Chelsea.

Both of these powerful, medieval and early modern monarchs owned castles and palaces unequalled in scale and splendour, yet they both sought retreat to comfortable little getaways. These were not located far from the seats of power, but they were far enough to make them think they could have some peace and relaxation.

Somehow, heaven will contain the most splendid palaces in the entire cosmos; it will be the seat of all universal power and regal majesty; it will be the gigantic governmental hub of angelic and human civilisation…yet it will be as peaceful and soothing as any country retreat or secret bolthole.

He makes me to lie down in green pastures;
He leads me beside the still waters.
He restores my soul;
He leads me in the paths of righteousness
For His name’s sake. Ps 23:2-3