The Death of Henry I and the End of Norman Rule in England (1135 CE)

After spending the autumn of 1135 campaigning to strengthen the southern frontier of Normandy, King Henry I of England traveled to Lyons-la-Forêt in November to enjoy a period of hunting, still seemingly in good health.

However, while there, Henry fell suddenly ill—according to the chronicler Henry of Huntingdon, he had ignored his physician’s advice and consumed an excessive number of lampreys. His condition worsened over the course of a week, marking the end of his 35-year reign.

Final Days and Death (December 1, 1135)

• As his illness became clearly terminal, Henry made final preparations for his passing:
  • He gave confession, ensuring his spiritual readiness for death.
  • He summoned Archbishop Hugh of Amiens, along with Robert of Gloucester (his illegitimate son and most trusted noble) and other members of the royal court.
  • In accordance with tradition, efforts were made to settle his debts and revoke outstanding sentences of forfeiture.

On December 1, 1135, Henry I died, bringing an end to the longest and most politically stable reign of an Anglo-Norman king.