One of several Bishops of Ely with dedicated chapels, the Eton and Cambridge-educated Nicholas West had a distinguished career. He was involved in the negotiations at the Field of the Cloth of Gold, the establishment of two English universities, and was chaplain to Queen Katherine of Aragon, supporting her during divorce proceedings from King Henry VIII.

The Norman-built Ely Catherdral, with its 14th century Octagon tower and unique wooden lantern, is regarded as one of the wonders of the medieval world.