Uncovering the Gloucester: Norfolk’s Mary Rose
In May 1682, royal warship the Gloucester sank off the Norfolk coast while carrying the future King James II of England. James survived, though hundreds lost their lives. More than three centuries later, two Norfolk brothers found the wreck of the Gloucester. Its discovery has remained a closely kept secret - until now.
UEA researchers are starting to unearth the mysteries behind the ship’s tragic end and assess its wider maritime career. Professor Claire Jowitt and Dr Ben Redding of UEA’s highly regarded School of History have embarked on a major research project to explore why the disaster happened and the political consequences of the event. Funded by the Leverhulme Trust, they will also work to tell the stories of some of the 130-250 people who drowned in the disaster.
A major exhibition, The Last Voyage of the Gloucester: Norfolk’s Royal Shipwreck 1682, runs from 25 February to 25 July 2023 at Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery. The exhibition is co-curated by Norfolk Museums Service and UEA researchers.
Explore the Gloucester
© Norfolk Historic Shipwrecks
Our world-leading research
UEA research is making real-world impact. That’s why 91 per cent of UEA research has been rated 'world-leading' or 'internationally excellent' by the Research Excellence Framework (REF2021). We’re also in the UK top 20 for research quality*.
UEA is a globally significant centre of research that drives global change. We bring fresh thinking to the major challenges facing society, helping to create a better future for all.
*Times Higher Education REF2021 Analysis
UEA’s world-leading research covers science, health and medicine, social sciences and the humanities. It addresses some of the biggest issues facing society today, from transforming the lives of children in state care to providing the global temperature records which inform international climate change.
We also have an enduring culture of working beyond subject and geographical boundaries. We think without borders.
Our climate story
UEA’s world-leading scientists helped uncover humankind’s impact on our climate and pioneer our understanding of global warming.
Today, we’re a vibrant research and teaching community. We work around the world to share our pioneering climate science, demystify the political process, support our students, and help find answers to humanity’s most urgent question. This year, UEA's Climate Research Unit celebrates its 50th anniversary.
Find out more about our groundbreaking work below.
Latest News
Maternal microbiome promotes healthy development of the baby
A mother’s gut microbes can help in the development of the placenta, and the healthy growth of the baby - according to new UEA research.
Cutting-edge 4D flow MRI scans could revolutionise blood flow assessment in the heart
UEA researchers have developed cutting-edge imaging technology to help doctors better diagnose and monitor patients with heart failure.
Built infrastructure, hunting and climate change linked to huge migratory bird declines
Migratory birds are declining globally because of the way that humans have modified the landscape over recent decades, UEA research shows.
Latest Research
Widening Participation: Transparency Return