Historic Royal Palaces Podcast - Historic Royal Palaces

James I and the Witch Hunts: A War on Women? Oct 31, 2024

When James VI of Scotland ascended the English throne as James I, he sparked the English witch hunts into a fire. They would become one of the largest miscarriages of justice against women in the 17th century, but what prompted them, and why did James become such a ruthless champion of this war on women?

For this Halloween Episode, we join Joint Chief Curator Tracy Borman and historian Gareth Russell, as they explore the witch hunts under James I.

Please be aware that this episode contains themes of sexual violence and torture that some listeners may find distressing.

A Space I Love S3 – The Queen’s Staircase at Hampton Court Palace Oct 24, 2024

In this final episode of our A Space I Love Series, we join Deputy Chief Curator Sebastian Edwards in the Queen’s staircase at Hampton Court Palace. The stairs are the hub of the palace, and they represent a surprisingly unique space with a lot to say.

Once the main thoroughfare to the queen’s private apartments, but largely unused after Henry VIII’s time, the grand staircase has remained unchanged since the last monarchs left the palace in the 18th century.

To view the Queen’s stairs, take our virtual tour with Google Arts & Culture

Take a look at Honthorst’s painting of Apollo and Diana.

A Space I Love S3 – Chapel of St John the Evangelist at the Tower of London Oct 10, 2024

This week is the third part of our mini-series on spaces we love. We’ll be joining Assistant Curator Alfred Hawkins, who has chosen to take us into the Chapel of St John the Evangelist, at the Tower of London.

As the most important space in the White Tower, the Chapel Royal holds huge historic significance in representing the Norman Conquest’s power, control and religious dominance. Alfred explores how a recent project will protect this space of immeasurable importance, for generations to come.

To view inside the Chapel of St John the Evangelist, take our Virtual Tour with Google Arts & Culture.

A Space I Love S3 – The Dining Room at Hillsborough Castle Sep 26, 2024

This week we’re continuing our mini-series on treasured spaces with a trip to Hillsborough Castle and Gardens in Northern Ireland.

We’ll follow Research and Interpretation Producer Emma Lawthers, into the magnificent state dining room – a space that represents the political history of Northern Ireland, with a curious and unexpected connection to the birth of the United States of America.

Find out more about the history of Hillsborough Castle and Gardens:

https://www.hrp.org.uk/hillsborough-castle/history-and-stories/the-story-of-hillsborough-castle-and-gardens/

A Space I Love S3 – The Oak Room at Hampton Court Palace Sep 12, 2024

In this four part mini-series, we’re back exploring a selection of treasured spaces in our palaces with the people who know them best, our curators.

Each space has been personally chosen by our resident experts, revealing how immersing ourselves in a place can connect us to the past, and make us reflect on the present.

In this first episode we’ll follow Assistant Curator Minette Butler into a deceptively domestic space at Hampton Court Palace. The Oak Room tells the story of the palace after the Royals left, and serves as a charming symbol of the small Grace and Favour community who inherited it.

The Tudor World - Beyond Hampton Court Palace Aug 29, 2024

The Tudor world ushered in an age of wealth, magnificence, challenge and opportunity in the early 16th century. Hampton Court Palace stood at the heart of this period, as the home of Thomas Wolsey, Henry VIII’s chief minister. But the Tudor story extends beyond the palace walls into the wider world, encompassing a time of exploration and exploitation.

In this episode, Curator Brett Dolman walks us through the oldest rooms at Hampton Court Palace, where a new permanent exhibition reveals the lives of the ordinary men and women who enabled the Tudor court to exist and thrive. Learn more about their everyday contributions to this fascinating period.

Explore more about The Tudor World in the Wolsey Rooms:

www.hrp.org.uk/hampton-court-palace/whats-on/the-tudor-world-in-the-wolsey-rooms/

The Princes in the Tower - Wars of the Roses Part Five Aug 15, 2024

Does the mystery of the Princes in the Tower remain of such interest today because it is unsolved? In this final episode of our Wars of the Roses series, Curator Charles Farris is joined by Joint Chief Curator Tracy Borman and Research Lead Dr Laura Tompkins, to discuss the complex and divisive ‘end’ to the Wars of the Roses with the disappearance of the Princes in the Tower, and the reputation of their uncle Richard III. Learn more about Charles II and the discovery of the Princes in the Tower at the Tower of London with Charles Farris: www.hrp.org.uk/blog/charles-ii-and-the-discovery-of-the-princes-in-the-tower-in-1674/

Women of the Wars of the Roses - Part Four Aug 01, 2024

Women played vital roles in the power struggles of the Wars of the Roses, but history hasn’t always been portrayed this way.

In this episode we’re putting women back in the narrative, from Margaret of Anjou right the way through to Elizabeth of York and the start of the Tudor Dynasty. Curator Charles Farris and Dr Joanna Laynesmith talk us through the key women of the Wars of the Roses.

Further Reading:

Tracy Borman’s articles on Elizabeth of York:

https://www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london/history-and-stories/elizabeth-of-york/

https://www.hrp.org.uk/blog/death-of-elizabeth-of-york-at-the-tower-of-london/

Rachel Delman’s article about Margaret of Anjou and Greenwich Palace:

https://rsj.winchester.ac.uk/articles/10.21039/rsj.326

Dr Joanna Laynesmith, The last medieval queens : English queenship 1445-1503

Dr Joanna Laynesmith, Cecily Duchess of York

Wars of the Roses Part Three – Edward IV to Richard III Jul 18, 2024

The middle and end of the Wars of the Roses is arguably the most complicated period of this history, with big personalities and power players fighting for the top spot in the game of thrones.

In episode three of this series, we hope to unpack the reigns of Edward IV through to the Battle of Bosworth, asking along the way when the real end to the Wars of the Roses was?

Curator Charles Farris is joined by Historic Royal Palaces' Research Lead Dr Laura Tompkins and Dr James Ross from the University of Winchester.

Wars of the Roses Part Two – The Reign of Henry VI Jul 04, 2024

In this second episode of our five-part series on the Wars of the Roses, we investigate the reign of Henry VI and the start of the dynastic struggle that was the Wars of the Roses. Henry has often been blamed for the start of the conflict because of his methods of kingship. His experience with mental health challenges was little understood by his contemporaries, and arguably by historians today. This episode will explore the explosive atmosphere of his reign, what factors created it, and ultimately how the Wars of the Roses began. Curator Charles Farris is joined by Historic Royal Palaces' Head of Research Anthony Musson, and Lynsey Metcalfe who is studying for her PhD at the University of Cambridge. Read more on the life of Henry VI: https://www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london/history-and-stories/henry-vi/

Wars of the Roses Part One - Origins and Context Jun 20, 2024

The Wars of the Roses was a turbulent period of conflict in the 15th century that ultimately ushered in a new dynasty with the Tudors.

In this first episode of our new five-part series, Historic Royal Palaces Curator Charles Farris leads us into the stormy dynastic struggle by laying out the context and origins behind the Wars. Who were the major power players, and what initiated such a period of unrest?

Recorded in the Wakefield Tower at the Tower of London, this episode will situate the Tower at the very heart of the conflict, and set us up for the series ahead.

If you’re interested in seeing inside the Wakefield Tower, you can see it on Google Street View here: The Wakefield Tower at Tower of London - Google Maps

The Wars of the Roses - NEW SERIES Jun 13, 2024

In this new five-part series, Historic Royal Palaces Curator Charles Farris leads us into the stormy world of the Wars of the Roses.

We aim to reveal how and why such a turbulent period of conflict occurred in the 15th century, and ultimately how it ushered in a new dynasty with the Tudors.

Charles will be joined by expert historians and Curators from Historic Royal Palaces, to help unpack what has made the Wars of the Roses so legendary.

Join us next Thursday, for the first episode on the context behind the Wars of the Roses.

Graffiti at the Tower of London – New Research at the Palaces Jun 06, 2024

The Tower of London holds an incredible collection of historic graffiti, from the prisoners of the Tudor dynasty, right through to the 20th century. But there is still so much that we don’t know about who made the graffiti and why.

In this episode, we follow Postdoctoral Research Associate Jamie Inghram into the Salt Tower, a legendary prisoner tower in the precinct of the Tower of London. The Salt Tower is rich with graffiti including some examples that have never been investigated before. Jamie talks us through the very early stages of a new research project that is hoping to reveal the secrets of this history.

This episode is part of a series where we’re exploring fresh research that is taking place in our Palaces. We won’t be releasing this sequentially, so these episodes will appear throughout the year.

To see Hugh Drapers Graffiti visit:

https://artsandculture.google.com/asset/FAGcYgdjb7Sflg

Please note that POW is an abbreviation for Prisoner of War.

Outliers – Pinpricks of Light May 23, 2024

Caroline Herschel stares at the stars. Recognition as an astronomer and scientist seems further away than even the most distant constellations. But her discovery of comets and her love for her work is contagious. It’s not long before Queen Charlotte, wife of King George III, takes notice.

Outliers – Stories from the edge of history is an historic fiction podcast that explores how big events are viewed and shaped by the people in the shadows. Listen to Outliers - Stories from the edge of history wherever you get your podcasts or go to: https://sites.libsyn.com/109217/site

Please note, these episodes are released in a different order than on the original podcast.

Outliers – Secrets of the Bedchamber May 09, 2024

Catalina served Katherine of Aragon for years, proudly, passionately, and loyally following her from Spain all the way to the side of King Henry VIII. But Henry’s interest has turned. He is intent on divorce, and his henchmen are digging up the secrets of Katherine’s first marriage to Arthur Tudor. They think Catalina is the weakest link and their method is intimidation. But have they underestimated Catalina’s strength and loyalty?

Outliers – Stories from the edge of history is an historic fiction podcast that explores how big events are viewed and shaped by the people in the shadows. Listen to Outliers - Stories from the edge of history wherever you get your podcasts or go to: https://sites.libsyn.com/109217/site

To learn more about Catalina of Motril watch this mini documentary:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vGCehukyT6A

Please note, these episodes are released in a different order than on the original podcast.

Outliers – Crack of Thunder Apr 25, 2024

Leech is a man who knows about fire, how it burns and how it feels. But when Whitehall Palace, the largest palace in Europe, becomes the greatest kindling pile for a seemingly unquenchable blaze, even he is left dazzled. Everything burns, even the home of kings.

Outliers – Stories from the edge of history is an historic fiction podcast that explores how big events are viewed and shaped by the people in the shadows. Listen to Outliers - Stories from the edge of history wherever you get your podcasts or go to: https://sites.libsyn.com/109217/site

Please note, these episodes are released in a different order than on the original podcast.

To read more about the lost palace of Whitehall go to:

https://www.hrp.org.uk/banqueting-house/

https://artsandculture.google.com/project/banqueting-house

Outliers – Fresh Sweat and Cloves Apr 11, 2024

As lady-in-waiting to an ageing queen and wife to a failed adventurer, Bess Raleigh has learnt to fight her corner against all adversity. Her life is spent in the shadow of the Tower of London with her husband Sir Walter Raleigh. But will she manage to keep her head whilst others around her lose theirs?

Outliers – Stories from the edge of history is an historic fiction podcast that explores how big events are viewed and shaped by the people in the shadows. Listen to Outliers - Stories from the edge of history wherever you get your podcasts or go to: https://sites.libsyn.com/109217/site

Please note, these episodes are released in a different order than on the original podcast.

Outliers – Mehmet and Peter Mar 28, 2024

Outliers – Stories from the edge of history is an historic fiction podcast that explores how big events are viewed and shaped by the people in the shadows.

It’s late spring in 1726 at Kensington Palace, and the lavish court of King George I is in residence. Meanwhile, Mehmet, the Turkish valet to the King, is having some problems with Peter from Hanover, 'the wild boy' who is kept for the King’s amusement. A comical cat-and-mouse chase ensues, but perhaps it is Peter who has some unexpected lessons to teach Mehmet.

Listen to Outliers - Stories from the edge of history wherever you get your podcasts or go to: https://sites.libsyn.com/109217/site

To find out more about Peter’s life go to:

https://www.hrp.org.uk/blog/peter-the-wild-boy-from-hanover/

Untold Lives is an exhibition that explores the forgotten stories of those who worked at the royal palaces over 300 years ago.

https://www.hrp.org.uk/kensington-palace/whats-on/untold-lives

Please note, these episodes are released in a different order than on the original podcast.

Henry VIII's Royal Progresses - New Research at the Palaces Mar 14, 2024

The practice of journeying around the country on royal progress is one that monarchs used to strengthen their rule. But they can reveal a lot more than you’d think about kingship and queenship, even for tried and tested subjects such as Henry VIII and his six Queens.

We follow Post-Doctoral Research Assistant Kirsty Wright, as she guides us through the importance of new research into where and why Henry VIII went on royal progress. Kirsty also reveals how the progresses of Henry’s Queens are contributing to highlighting their individual roles and personalities, helping to answer bigger questions about 16th century queenship and monarchy.

In this series, we'll be exploring fresh research that is taking place in our Palaces. We won't be releasing this series sequentially, so these episodes will appear throughout the year.

To find out more about the Henry VIII on Tour research project go to:

www.hrp.org.uk/about-us/research/henry-viii-on-tour-landscapes-communities-and-performance/

Day in the Life of...A Yeoman Warder Feb 29, 2024

The Yeoman Warders have guarded the Tower of London for 500 years, and is perhaps the oldest of jobs that still exists in our palaces today. In this final episode of a Day in the Life, we meet the Chief Yeoman Warder himself, Rob Fuller, and Curator Charles Farris fills us in on the storied history of this role.

To find out more about the forgotten stories of those who worked at the royal palaces over 300 years ago, a new exhibition is opening at Kensington Palace.

https://www.hrp.org.uk/kensington-palace/whats-on/untold-lives/

Day in the life of...A Bricklayer Feb 15, 2024

Hampton Court Palace was built and maintained by craftspeople, and this is a practice that endures to this day at the palaces. We follow Master Bricklayer Emma Simpson into her workshop where she describes the joy of her work and how it connects her to history. We then hear from Assistant Curator Alexandra Stevenson as she tells us about her research into female craftspeople who had a hand in building the palaces.

To find out more about the forgotten stories of those who worked at the royal palaces over 300 years ago, a new exhibition is opening at Kensington Palace.

https://www.hrp.org.uk/kensington-palace/whats-on/untold-lives/

Day in the Life of...A Gardener Feb 01, 2024

In this episode we meet Senior Gardener Jane, who works at Hampton Court Palace. Jane takes us behind the scenes into the Nursery as we contemplate the hard work that goes into creating beautiful gardens. To help contextualise the work of an historic gardener, Curator Lee Prosser takes us on an informative stroll around the gardens that have been worked for hundreds of years.

For the next few episodes, we’re going to be following some of the people who work in our Palaces today. We’ll be exploring how these jobs have a historic context to them, and how surprisingly, there are similarities in the work they do now, from the work that was done in the past.

To find out more about the forgotten stories of those who worked at the royal palaces over 300 years ago, a new exhibition is opening at Kensington Palace.

https://www.hrp.org.uk/kensington-palace/whats-on/untold-lives/

Day in the Life of...A Wardrobe Manager Jan 18, 2024

For the next few episodes, we’re going to be following some of the people who work in our palaces today. We’ll be exploring how these jobs have a historic context to them, and how surprisingly, there are similarities in the work they do now, from the work that was done in the past.

Today we meet Erin, Historic Royal Palaces’ Wardrobe Manager. We step into the treasure trove that is the costume store and contemplate how Erin’s job may have existed in the past. To help contextualise this, Curator Charles Farris will then explore the Medieval world of wardrobe management.

To find out more about the forgotten stories of those who worked at the royal palaces over 300 years ago, a new exhibition is opening at Kensington Palace.

https://www.hrp.org.uk/kensington-palace/whats-on/untold-lives/

New Research at the Palaces – Antarctic Exploration and Grace and Favour Jan 04, 2024

Hampton Court Palace has an unexpected connection to the Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration, the wedding of famous explorer Captain Scott and sculptor Kathleen Bruce took place in the Chapel Royal.

We follow Assistant Curator Minette Butler as she explores a shut-off part of the Palace, highlighting how new research into Grace and Favour residents is revealing such curious connections, as well as opening up the lives of the Palace’s most recent residents.

In this new series, we’ll be exploring fresh research that is taking place in our Palaces. We won’t be releasing this series sequentially, so these episodes will appear throughout the year.

To read more about the wedding of Captain Scott and Kathleen Bruce go to:

www.hrp.org.uk/blog/captain-scott-and-kathleen-bruces-wedding-at-hampton-court-palace

The Six Tudor Queens – Katherine Parr with Sarah Gristwood Dec 28, 2023

Katherine Parr is the final Tudor Queen in our series. Was she the nursemaid who looked after and survived her husband, or was she much more than that?

In this final episode of our Six Queens Series, Tracy Borman and historian Sarah Gristwood acquaint us with the woman behind the myths, an intelligent, strong and resourceful champion of her own agenda.

This episode also concludes the series with a reflection on the legacy of the Six Tudor Queens.

To view the painting of the Family of Henry VIII, and the Haunted Gallery where it is kept go to:

www.google.com/maps/@51.4036169,-0.337082,2a,75y,93.52h,94.19t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sZaJgI28yRfgAAAQsEn4lPA!2e0!7i13312!8i6656?entry=ttu

www.rct.uk/collection/themes/exhibitions/painting-paradise/the-queens-gallery-buckingham-palace/the-family-of-henry-viii

The Six Tudor Queens – Catherine Howard with Gareth Russell Dec 14, 2023

Catherine Howard has been judged by generations as promiscuous, a silly girl, a victim. But of course, there is more to her story than these assumptions allow for.

In the fifth episode of our Six Tudor Queens series, Tracy Borman is joined by historian and author Gareth Russell, to bring Catherine to life. They paint a picture of a vivacious young woman whose life deserves to be revealed without the layers that centuries have placed upon her.

See inside the Haunted Gallery with this virtual tour of Henry VIII’s Tudor Palace:

https://artsandculture.google.com/story/oAVRshA9gG0J9w

This six-part series aims to do The Six Tudor Queens justice by stripping away unhelpful narratives and myths, to better understand them as women in their own time.

To read about Catherine Howard go to: www.hrp.org.uk/hampton-court-palace/history-and-stories/catherine-howard/

A History of Royal Christmas Celebrations Dec 07, 2023

Dive into the history of Royal Christmas celebrations in our palaces with this bonus seasonal episode. Chief mischief-maker Curator Charles Farris is joined by fellow Curator Lee Prosser, and Historic Kitchens Manager Richard Fitch, to kick off the season of revelry with some Christmas tomfoolery.

We'll be back next week to continue The Six Tudor Queens series.

For the Victorian Christmas pudding recipe go to:

www.hrp.org.uk/blog/a-christmas-pudding-recipe-with-a-victorian-twist/

And to find out what’s on in our Palaces this Christmas go to:

www.hrp.org.uk/whats-on-all-the-palaces

The Six Tudor Queens – Anne of Cleves with Tracy Borman Nov 30, 2023

Tracy Borman talks about her favourite of the Six Tudor Queens, Anne of Cleves. Divorced, so the rhyme goes, for being the ‘ugly’ Queen.

Anne’s looks were the least interesting thing about her, but her story has been dominated by them for centuries. Tracy is joined by fellow Curator Brett Dolman to unpack this fixation on appearance and reveal the woman beneath the myths.

This six-part series aims to do The Six Tudor Queens justice by stripping away unhelpful narratives and myths, to better understand them as women in their own time.

Read about Anne of Cleves here: www.hrp.org.uk/hampton-court-palace/history-and-stories/anne-of-cleves

The Six Tudor Queens – Jane Seymour with Nicola Tallis Nov 16, 2023

This week we’re talking about Queen number three, Jane Seymour. Once again Tracy Borman is joined by a fantastic guest, Dr Nicola Tallis will bring Jane to life for us.

Always thought of as the favourite wife, Jane Seymour is best known for giving birth to the male heir that her husband so desired, and for being the one in the rhyme who sadly died. But we don’t know very much about her as a woman and as an individual. In this episode Tracy and Nicola will shed light on this, revealing that Jane may have had more to her than history has allowed.

This six-part series aims to do The Six Tudor Queens justice by stripping away unhelpful narratives and myths, to better understand them as women in their own time.

The Six Tudor Queens – Anne Boleyn with Owen Emmerson and James Peacock Nov 02, 2023

The one you’ve been waiting for! Tracy Borman is joined by Dr Owen Emmerson and Palace Host James Peacock, to take on the mammoth task of disrupting the reputation of the second and most famous of the six Tudor Queens, Anne Boleyn. They’ll explore this in the Great Hall of Hampton Court Palace, which remains a symbol of Anne’s triumph and her downfall.

Please be aware that this episode contains references to miscarriages, still births and infant mortality.

This six-part series will aim to do The Six Tudor Queens justice by stripping away unhelpful narratives and myths, to better understand them as women in their own time.

Watch Tracy's mini documentary on the Downfall of Anne Boleyn: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YQ_fPZsgSD0

See the palace come to life while you listen and explore inside the Great Hall, with this virtual tour of Henry VIII's Tudor Palace:

https://artsandculture.google.com/story/oAVRshA9gG0J9w

The Six Tudor Queens – Katherine of Aragon with Elizabeth Norton Oct 19, 2023

Tracy Borman opens our new series on the Queens Consort of Henry VIII with renowned historian Dr Elizabeth Norton. To better understand the six Queens, they first explore the context of the turbulent times in which these women lived.

As the first Queen of Henry VIII, Katherine of Aragon’s reputation as the dowdy wronged wife has endured for 500 years, but Tracy and Elizabeth call this into question. They reveal that Katherine’s iron-will was both her strength and arguably her undoing.

Please be aware that this episode contains references to miscarriages, still births and infant mortality.

This six-part series will aim to do The Six Tudor Queens justice by stripping away unhelpful narratives and myths, to better understand them as women in their own time.

The Six Tudor Queens with Tracy Borman Oct 12, 2023

In this new series Chief Curator Tracy Borman will guide us through the well-known lives of the six Tudor queens who all had one man common.

This six-part series will aim to do the Queens justice whilst discussing some of the interpretations that history has offered of them. We’ll talk about what they might have been like as women in their own time, and reflect on the language we use when we talk about them now. To get a sense of the context in which they lived, we’ll be stepping into the parts of our palaces where they would have walked, in a court that was both exciting and toxic in its temperament. 

Tracy will explore all this with a stellar cast of historians, all experts on the Queens. So join us next Thursday, and every two weeks after that, as we dive into the world of The Six Tudor Queens.

The Indian Army at the Palace – Legacy of Empire Oct 05, 2023

In this week’s episode, exhibition lead Zakira Begum and Community Curators Rav Singh and Dr Tej Pal Singh Ralmill explore the impact of the World Wars on the Indian Army, how they moved the Indian Subcontinent towards independence from the British Empire, and ultimately how the legacy of this history is still relevant today.

This is the second of two episodes where we’re celebrating the opening of our new exhibition at Hampton Court Palace called The Indian Army at the Palace. For tickets go to: www.hrp.org.uk/hampton-court-palace/whats-on/the-indian-army-at-the-palace

Please be aware that this episode contains themes of scientific race theories.

The Indian Army at the Palace – Context of Empire Sep 21, 2023

In the early 20th century soldiers from the Indian Army camped at Hampton Court Palace on a number of occasions for coronations and peace celebrations. But behind all the pomp and ceremony was a much darker side.

In this episode, Exhibition Lead Zakira Begum and Community Curators Rav Singh and Dr Tej Pal Singh Ralmill cover the background and context of the British Empire and the Indian Army, unpicking how the two are connected through the rise of the East India Company, to the birth of the British Raj in India.

This is the first of two episodes where we’re celebrating the opening of our new exhibition at Hampton Court Palace called The Indian Army at the Palace. For tickets go to: www.hrp.org.uk/hampton-court-palace/whats-on/the-indian-army-at-the-palace

Please be aware that this episode contains themes of scientific race theories.

A Space I Love S2 – The Hidden Tudor Chapel with Dan Jackson Sep 07, 2023

This week we’re back with the final episode from series two of A Space I Love.

Today Head of Historic Buildings Dan Jackson takes us into a space that for him, sums up what Hampton Court Palace is all about, the hidden east wall of the Chapel Royal.

Tucked away for 400 years, this jigsaw puzzle of a space reveals a lot about the history of this extraordinary palace, as well as its mysteries.

If you want to see this space when visiting Hampton Court Palace, it is on the Georgian Story route. Our Palace Hosts are easy to spot in red coats and will be able to direct you.

A Space I Love S2 – Queen Charlotte's Drawing Room with Polly Putnam Aug 24, 2023

This week marks the penultimate episode in our six-part mini-series on special places in our palaces. We’re following Curator Polly Putnam into Queen Charlotte’s Drawing Room in Kew Palace, the home of the Royal Family during the illnesses of George III.

This small and domestic-feeling room holds a lot of sadness from the past, but from this Polly is able to reflect on finding joy in the meaning of home.

If you’d like to find out more on visiting Kew Palace go to: https://www.hrp.org.uk/kew-palace/visit

To learn more about the lives of Queen Charlotte and George III go to: https://www.hrp.org.uk/kew-palace/history-and-stories

A Space I Love S2 – The Banqueting House roof with Lee Prosser Aug 10, 2023

In the fourth part of this series, Curator Lee Prosser takes us into a hidden space at the Banqueting House, once part of the great Whitehall Palace.

It may not be the famous Rubens ceiling, but Lee will reveal how the roof space of the Banqueting House is a piece of living history, with a rich past and an important role for the future.

For information on visiting the Banqueting House, go to:

https://www.hrp.org.uk/banqueting-house/

A Space I Love S2 – The Tower of London's Chapel Royal with Alfred Hawkins Jul 27, 2023

This week is the third part of our mini-series on spaces we love. We’ll be joining Assistant Curator Alfred Hawkins who has chosen to take us into the Chapel of St Peter Ad Vincula at the Tower of London.

As the burial place of Anne Boleyn, the Chapel Royal holds a special place to many history fans, but there is so much more to this community place of worship. Alfred reveals that the myths of history can be just as important as the truth.

To find out more on the Chapel of St Peter Ad Vincula go to:

www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london/whats-on/chapel-royal-of-st-peter-ad-vincula

Watch our mini documentary on the Downfall of Anne Boleyn:

Anne Boleyn | The Downfall and Execution of a Tudor Queen

A Space I Love S2 – The Royal Ceremonial Dress Collection with Matthew Storey Jul 13, 2023

This week we’re continuing our mini-series on treasured spaces with a trip through a place full of historic clothing, the Royal Ceremonial Dress Collection.

We’ll follow Curator Matthew Storey into this hidden store, to find out how we can learn from the stories that are carried in the historic clothing we look after, and how they really do hold relevance for today.

If you would like to find out more or visit the Royal Ceremonial Dress Collection, go to:

www.hrp.org.uk/about-us/conservation-and-collections/royal-ceremonial-dress-collection

A Space I Love Series 2 – The King’s House with Alden Gregory Jun 29, 2023

Welcome back to series two of A Space I Love.

In this six-part mini-series, we’re back exploring a selection of treasured spaces in our palaces with the people who know them best, our curators.

In this first episode we’ll follow Alden Gregory behind-the-scenes into the King’s House at the Tower of London, a place that is intimately connected with the Gunpowder Plot, and the interrogation of Guy Fawkes.

Please be aware that this episode contains themes of torture, death and execution, which some listeners may find upsetting.

For more on the Gunpowder plot you can listen to our previous episodes on the plot from November 2022, or visit:

https://www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london/history-and-stories/guy-fawkes-and-the-gunpowder-plot

A Space I Love SERIES TWO coming soon Jun 22, 2023

Coming next week on Thursday 29th June.

In this six-part mini-series, our curators are back sharing their favourite spaces with you. We’ll be exploring a selection of treasured spaces in our palaces, from behind-the-scenes stores, to rooms of immense importance to British history.

Some spaces will be grand and some modest, some aren’t even open to the public. But each space has been personally chosen by our resident experts to reveal how immersing ourselves in a place can connect us to the past, and make us reflect on the present.

Behind-The-Scenes in the Conservation Studio Jun 15, 2023

For today’s episode, we’re at Hampton Court Palace and we’re going behind the scenes into a very special place; the Textile Conservation Studio.

We’ll speak to our specialist conservators to hear about the care and craftsmanship that goes into looking after historic dress, as well as the challenges around preparing for a blockbuster exhibition.

This is the final episode in a series where we’re celebrating fashion, identity and the opening of our new exhibition at Kensington Palace called Crown to Couture.

To find out more about conserving historic dress go to:

Conserving a Rare 360-Year-Old Dress | Behind the Scenes at Hampton Court Palace

For tickets to Crown to Couture at Kensington Palace go to:

https://www.hrp.org.uk/kensington-palace/whats-on/crown-to-couture/

Curator Tour - Crown to Couture at Kensington Palace Jun 01, 2023

In this episode join Curators Polly Putnam and Claudia Acott-Williams for a mini tour of the Crown to Couture exhibition at Kensington Palace. They'll talk about their favourite pieces on display, as well as the craftsmanship that goes into making high fashion, from the Georgian Court to the Red Carpet of today.

This is the third episode in a series where we're celebrating the opening of our new exhibition at Kensington Palace.

For tickets to Crown to Couture go to:

https://www.hrp.org.uk/kensington-palace/whats-on/crown-to-couture

Fashion is Political – the Legacy of Georgian Power Dressing May 18, 2023

From Beyoncé to Billie Eilish, fashion is undeniably personal and political. But the legacy of harnessing fashion as a tool for power and representation goes back to the 18th century and beyond. In this episode Curators Matthew Story, Polly Putnam and Claudia Acott-Williams celebrate the joy of fashion as a symbol of identity at the Georgian Court, and its importance on the Red Carpet today.

This is the second episode in a series where we’re celebrating fashion, identity and the opening of our new exhibition at Kensington Palace called Crown to Couture.

For tickets to Crown to Couture at Kensington Palace go to:

https://www.hrp.org.uk/kensington-palace/whats-on/crown-to-couture/

Red Carpet Fashion and the Georgian Court - From Royal Palace to Met Gala May 04, 2023

The fashion history of the Georgian Court has a lot of similarities with the Red Carpet and Met Gala glamour of today. In this episode Curators Matthew Story, Polly Putnam and Claudia Acott-Williams unpick these parallels, and take us on a journey through getting ready in the 18th century, revealing how surprisingly, it’s not that different from how celebrities are styled and prepared for the Red Carpet today.

This is the first episode in a series where we’re celebrating fashion, identity and the opening of our new exhibition at Kensington Palace called Crown to Couture.

For tickets to Crown to Couture at Kensington Palace go to:

https://www.hrp.org.uk/kensington-palace/whats-on/crown-to-couture/

A History of Coronations Apr 20, 2023

Join us for a whistle-stop tour of the History of Coronations. Curators Charles Farris, Alden Gregory and Lee Prosser will lead you on a merry dance through time, from medieval pre-coronation baths, to a man rolling down the steps at Queen Victoria's coronation. There's never a dull moment!

To find out more about the history of coronations, and how Historic Royal Palaces are celebrating visit:

https://www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london/history-and-stories/coronations-past-and-present/

https://www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london/whats-on/coronation-bench-trail/

For the Crown Jewels go to:

https://www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london/history-and-stories/the-crown-jewels/

Henry VIII's Portable Palaces Part 2 Apr 06, 2023

For this week’s episode we’re bringing you another talk from our archives given by our Curator Charles Farris.

We all know Henry VIII was an extravagant King, but in this talk we hear how he carried this extravagance into temporary palaces that travelled with him to events such as the Field of Cloth of Gold. These temporary structures really help to contextualise the importance of show and display for a renaissance king.

In the second part of this talk, Charles Farris will talk through the experimental archaeology project Portable Palace.

These live talks were recorded in 2018 in the run up to the 500th Anniversary of the Field of Cloth of Gold.

For further reading on Charles and Aldon’s research, as well as more on tents!

https://blog.hrp.org.uk/curators/portable-palaces-henry-viii-tents/

https://blog.hrp.org.uk/curators/portable-palaces-royal-tents-timber-lodgings/

https://blog.hrp.org.uk/curators/portable-palaces-field-cloth-gold-1520/

https://blog.hrp.org.uk/curators/a-tent-fit-for-a-king/

Henry VIII's Portable Palaces Part 1 Mar 23, 2023

For this week’s episode we’re bringing you another talk from our archives given by our Curator Alden Gregory.

We all know Henry VIII was an extravagant King, but in this talk we hear how he carried this extravagance into temporary palaces that travelled with him to events such as the Field of Cloth of Gold. These temporary structures really help to contextualise the importance of show and display for a renaissance king.

In part one we’ll hear from Aldon Gregory on timber temporary structures, and in the second part, Charles Farris will talk through the experimental archaeology project Portable Palace.

These live talks were recorded in 2018 in the run up to the 500th Anniversary of the Field of Cloth of Gold.

For further reading on Charles and Aldon’s research, as well as more on tents!

https://blog.hrp.org.uk/curators/portable-palaces-henry-viii-tents/

https://blog.hrp.org.uk/curators/portable-palaces-royal-tents-timber-lodgings/

https://blog.hrp.org.uk/curators/portable-palaces-field-cloth-gold-1520/

https://blog.hrp.org.uk/curators/a-tent-fit-for-a-king/

21 Questions with Lucy Worsley Mar 09, 2023

In today’s episode we’re celebrating International Women’s Day with our Chief Curator Lucy Worsley.

In this second episode Lucy joins us for a chat about why the past is important, and who we should be celebrating for International Women’s Day.

To find out more about the Crown to Couture exhibition go to:

https://www.hrp.org.uk/kensington-palace/whats-on/crown-to-couture/

21 Questions with Tracy Borman - International Women's Day Mar 08, 2023

In this episode we’re trying something new. Today is International Women’s Day, and what better way to celebrate than with two special episodes featuring our Chief Curators.

In this first episode Tracy Borman answers a quick-fire round of 21 Questions. We find out about her work, historic women who inspire her and what she always has on her desk!

We’ll be back tomorrow with another 21 Questions but this time with Lucy Worsley.

To find out more about our new displays at Hampton Court Palace visit:

https://www.hrp.org.uk/hampton-court-palace/whats-on/great-hall/

Jewish Medieval History at the Tower of London Feb 23, 2023

The Jewish medieval history of the Tower of London remains relatively unknown to our everyday visitors, and yet it is foundational to the first 200-years of the life of the fortress, as well as medieval England itself.

In this episode Curator Charles Farris is joined by Dr Rory MacLellan and Professor Miri Rubin, to reflect on how new research at Historic Royal Palaces has helped give a more nuanced picture of life for the Medieval Jewish community in England.

For more on this subject go to:

https://www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london/history-and-stories/jewish-medieval-history-at-the-tower-of-london/

For Dr Rory MacLellan’s exploration of the Jewish prisoners, sanctuary-seekers, and staff of the medieval Tower, including access to his research findings, go to:

https://www.hrp.org.uk/about-us/research/the-jewish-history-of-the-medieval-tower-of-london/

Sophia Duleep Singh - Suffragette and Revolutionary Feb 09, 2023

For this week’s episode we’re bringing you a talk from our archives by journalist and author Anita Anand, on the extraordinary life of Princess Sophia Duleep Singh

As the daughter of the deposed Maharaja Duleep Singh and Goddaughter to Queen Victoria, Sophia learned to use her fame and position to passionately fight for gender equality as a suffragette. She even campaigned regularly outside Hampton Court Palace.

It's difficult to do justice to the life of this incredible woman, but Anita Anand dives into Sophia's story and brings it into the light, from her Sikh family heritage to her involvment in the fight for women's suffrage.

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