After Henry died in 1189 Thurnham served his son and successor, Richard I, with the same loyalty and skill.
In 1190 he accompanied Richard on the Third Crusade, visiting Jerusalem in 1192, and in 1193 he escorted Queen Berengaria, Joan of England and the Damsel of Cyprus on their journey from Palestine to Rome.
After this his work was limited to England, managing royal Demesnes and Escheats, as well as vacant Bishoprics.
Although these jobs made the holder unpopular, he apparently had a good reputation, with Adam of Eynsham describing him as 'a faithful and godly man and devoted to our holy bishop'.
His royal favour faltered after 1200, but he was still a favorite of John, serving at various times as warden to Eleanor, Fair Maid of Brittany,[2] Isabella of Angoulême and the future Henry III.