The office of Lord High Admiral was the most senior naval office in England. During the period 1485 – 1625, there was no navy as we would understand it today. The Crown owned some ships, but in time of war would charter ships either from other monarchs, or from merchants.

In 1513, Henry VIII wanted to charter his brother-in-law, James IV’s, enormous vessel the ‘Great Michael’, for his war with France. James’ refusal – he was allied to France – severely damaged the relationship between them, and was one of the contributing factors in the Anglo-Scottish war that culminated at Flodden.

Henry VIII was interested in ships, and committed to increasing the number he owned. He commissioned several, including the Peter Pomegranate, the Katherine Pleasaunce, the Mary Willoughby, the Henry Grace a Dieu (the Great Harry) and, most famously, the Mary Rose.

The office of Lord Admiral therefore grew in importance. It was expected that appointees would take an active part in naval life, inspecting and commanding ships, and using them for both offensive and defensive warfare. With no professional navy, there was no possibility of the office being held by a career sailor – instead, it was held by men directly appointed by the monarch.

The Lord Admiral would be supported by Vice-Admirals.