Robert Burnell (sometimes Robert Burnel) (circa 1239 – 25 October 1292) is an English bishop who serves as Lord Chancellor of England from 1274 to 1292.
A native of Shropshire, he serves as a minor royal official before entering into the service of Prince Edward, the future King Edward I of England.
When Edward goes on the Eighth Crusade in 1270, Burnell stays in England to secure the prince's interests.
He serves as regent after the death of King Henry III of England while Edward is still on crusade.
He is twice elected Archbishop of Canterbury, but his personal life—which includes a long-term mistress who is rumored to have borne him four sons—prevents his confirmation by the papacy.
In 1275, Burnell is elected Bishop of Bath and Wells, after Edward had appointed him Lord Chancellor in 1274.
Burnell is behind the efforts of the royal officials to enforce royal rights during his term of office as chancellor, including the implementation of the Quo warranto procedures.
He also helps with the legislative and legal reforms of Edward's reign.
During Burnell's tenure, the chancellor's office and records become fixed in London rather than traveling with the king.
Burnell goes abroad on diplomatic missions for Edward, and for a time governs Gascony.
He continues to enjoy the king's trust until his death in 1292; one historian has suggested that Burnell may have been the most important royal official of the 13th century.
