The English Heritage Podcast

The illuminating story of stained glass Jun 05, 2025

Churches and buildings around England are home to beautiful stained glass enjoyed by communities and visitors every day. But less well known are the fascinating stories and histories behind these national treasures.

This week on the English Heritage Podcast, Amy Matthews is joined by Michael Carter and Susan Harrison to piece together what collections both in situ and in store can tell us about Christianity, the dissolution of monasteries, and the journey of stained glass into churches and buildings that stand today. Glass held both symbolic and intrinsic value to many people, from skilled glaziers to parish priests and opportunistic individuals. After monasteries were dissolved, their glazing lived some surprising second lives.

Plus, Susan explains how we are painstakingly piecing together the fragments of glass that were overlooked by our ancestors.

Don’t forget to follow this podcast and leave a review if you love the show.

Join: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/join/

Support our work: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/support-us/

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People of 1381: stories from the Peasants’ Revolt May 29, 2025

The summer of 1381 saw one of the biggest popular uprisings in Medieval Europe. Now, an innovative online resource is revealing how the Peasants’ Revolt impacted the lives of women, children and whole communities.

This week, Amy Matthews is joined by English Heritage’s Dr Will Wyeth to unlock the complex social and political issues of the revolt and how we feel these forces today.

The University of Glasgow’s Dr Andrew Prescott and The University of Reading’s Dr Helen Killick share snapshots of lives from the People of 1381 database and explore how stories are pieced together from documents and records of this period to add depth to popular chronicles.

Don’t forget to follow this podcast and leave a review if you love the show.

Join: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/join/

Support our work: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/support-us/

People of 1381 database: https://www.1381.online/

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Gladiators: finds, fans and fame May 22, 2025

This week on the English Heritage podcast, Amy Matthews dips into the rivers of Northern England for an insight into Roman beliefs and the celebrity culture of gladiators.

English Heritage’s Dr Frances Mcintosh and Dr Philippa Walton from the University of Leicester discuss gladiator memorabilia and the celebrity status of these icons in Roman Britain, with the aid of some amazing objects. The offerings made by Romans to the rivers at Piercebridge Roman Bridge and Corbridge Roman Town give us a snapshot into everyday lives, diverse beliefs and rituals.

Don’t forget to follow this podcast and leave a review if you love the show.

Join: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/join/

Support our work: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/support-us/

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The camera, the cook and the chauffeur: a country house love story May 15, 2025

Today we head to Brodsworth Hall and Gardens in Yorkshire and step back in time to discover a love story from the early 20th century. And it all starts with a camera.

Join Amy to unravel the story of two country house servants who met and fell in love against the background of the First World War in a Downton Abbey-worthy tale. English Heritage curator Eleanor Matthews explains how a very special bequest of items revealed valuable insights into Brodsworth Hall and its past residents – including the lives of Alf and Caroline Palmer. Their grandson Gordon also joins us to share their story, their memories of life in service at a country house, and a surprising inheritance.

Don’t forget to follow this podcast and leave a review if you love the show.

Join English Heritage: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/join/ 

Support our work: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/support-us/ 

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Computers, protection and peace in the Cold War era May 08, 2025

The shadow of the Cold War loomed over the 20th Century. But how did this affect day-to-day life for ordinary people and how was anxiety about the possibility of conflict normalised?

Starting with an innovative piece of technology from York's Cold War Bunker, Amy and her guests discuss civilian volunteers, the protest movement and the ever-present threat of war, using living memory and oral history to connect the past to our present.

Megan Thomas, a PhD student at the University of Liverpool, tells us about her research into imagined futures in our culture. Kevin Booth, Head Collections Curator at English Heritage, shares stories from Noreen, a Royal Observer Corps volunteer who spent 30 years serving in York’s bunker as part of the British nuclear deterrent.

Don’t forget to follow this podcast and leave a review if you love the show.

Join: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/join/ 

Support our work: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/support-us/ 

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From bobbins to skyscrapers: the story of Shrewsbury Flaxmill May 01, 2025

What does the view from London’s tallest building have in common with your kitchen tea towels and your favourite summer holiday outfit?

This week on the English Heritage Podcast, Amy Matthews and her guests dive into the history of Shrewsbury Flax Mill and the industrial revolution.

Find out how a humble bobbin can unravel a story about the linen and textile industries; how technical innovation changed the lives of working people and how it offered us the architecture that makes modern day skyscrapers possible. English Heritage’s Dr Steven Brindle and Barrie Trinder, a historian with a passion for industrial Shropshire explore the minds and the hands behind the mill, all the way through to its present-day impact.

Don’t forget to follow this podcast and leave a review if you love the show.

Join: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/join/ 

Support our work: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/support-us/ 

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Georgian wallpaper and an enduring fashion trend Apr 24, 2025

When Wrest Park’s Jemima, Marchioness Grey, was widowed, she unleashed her purse strings to install lavish Chinese art across the Bedfordshire estate: perfect for taking tea with friends.

You can get lost in the intricate birds, plants and people featured in Wrest Park’s Chinese wallpapers, but how was this part of a wider fashion in textiles, design and landscaping?

Dr Andrew Hann and volunteer Richard Luscombe join writer and comedian Amy Matthews to find out how trade between Europe and China started a centuries long love affair with Chinese design and textiles, and how consumer demand and exotic ideals were used by skilled manufacturers to develop the Chinoiserie style we still enjoy in our clothes, homewares and furnishings today.

You can plan your visit to see Wrest Park and its Chinese wallpapers at https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/wrest/

Don’t forget to follow this podcast and leave a review if you love the show.

Join: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/join/ 

Support our work: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/support-us/ 

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Fish, feminism and working women in the 20th Century Apr 17, 2025

How does a fish connect us to a story of working women’s rights?

Join comedian, writer and history fangirl Amy Matthews and her guests find out about tough and resilient seasonal workers in the Great Yarmouth fishing industry. From frozen fingers to salty cuts and a work hard play hard attitude (not to mention the stench of fish at the end of the day), working women travelled the coastlines on the trail of herring shoals, bolstering local fishing industries with seasonal work and bringing a whole new vibe to the towns they landed in.

English Heritage’s Dr Megan Leyland and researcher Dr Jill de Fresnes explore the lives of working people in Great Yarmouth’s Row Houses during the peak of the fishing industry, and the essential role of women in the supporting textile industry in the early 20th Century.

You can find out more about Great Yarmouth Row Houses at https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/greatyarmouthrowhouses

Don’t forget to follow this podcast and leave a review if you love the show.

Join: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/join/

Support our work: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/support-us/ 

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Speaking with shadows: The Workhouse at Framlingham Castle Apr 10, 2025

We’re still busy behind the scenes, so in the meantime we wanted to share a special series with you called Speaking with Shadows.

Framlingham Castle was home to the fiercely powerful Dukes of Norfolk for 400 years – so how did it end up as a workhouse in the 17th century? Join Josie Long as she delves into the castle’s second life and English society’s changing attitudes towards poverty over the centuries. Hear about people who lived and worked in the workhouse, and why life wasn’t always like a scene from Oliver Twist.

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Speaking with shadows: Bolsover Castle’s Philosopher Duchess Apr 03, 2025

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Speaking with shadows: Witchcraft, Women and Power Mar 27, 2025

We’re still busy behind the scenes, so in the meantime we wanted to share a special series with you called Speaking with Shadows.

It sees Josie Long teaming up with English Heritage to uncover some of the most fascinating forgotten stories from England’s past. We hope you enjoy it.

At Pevensey Castle in East Sussex, we learn about Joan of Navarre, the medieval Queen of England who was accused of witchcraft and imprisoned at the castle by her stepson, Henry V.

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From the archive: Alice Thornton: a woman’s experience of the English Civil Wars Mar 20, 2025

We’re working behind the scenes to make the podcast better than ever. In the meantime, we’re diving into our archive to bring you some of our favourite episodes.

Discover the story of a 17th century woman who left an amazing literary legacy. Alice Thornton wrote four books, including three autobiographies, which provide a remarkable insight into life during the English Civil Wars.

To discover more about Middleham Castle or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/middlehamcastle

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Speaking with shadows: The medieval massacre of the Jews of York Mar 13, 2025

We’re still busy behind the scenes, so in the meantime we wanted to share a special series with you called Speaking with Shadows.

It sees Josie Long teaming up with English Heritage to uncover some of the most fascinating forgotten stories from England’s past. We hope you enjoy it.

Clifford's Tower in York was the site of a tragedy in 1190 where the entire Jewish population of the city was persecuted to their deaths. We ask how and why such a shocking event could take place and hear how the local Jewish community reflect on it today.

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From the archive: The extraordinary life and times of Eleanor of Aquitaine Mar 06, 2025

We’re working behind the scenes to make the podcast better than ever. In the meantime, we’re diving into our archive to bring you some of our favourite episodes.

One of 12th century Europe’s richest and most powerful women, Eleanor became Queen of France as the wife of King Louis VII and then Queen of England as the wife of Henry II. Discover the story of her remarkable rise to power, her imprisonment following a plot to remove her second husband as king and her return to power as queen dowager.

To discover more about Eleanor of Aquitaine’s life, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/learn/histories/women-in-history/eleanor-aquitaine

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Speaking with shadows: Gwen Lalley - a 1930s pioneer Feb 27, 2025

We’re still busy behind the scenes, so in the meantime we wanted to share a special series with you called Speaking with Shadows.

It sees Josie Long teaming up with English Heritage to uncover some of the most fascinating forgotten stories from England’s past. We hope you enjoy it.

In this episode, Josie discovers the story of Gwen Lally, a former actress who directed thousands of performers in Battle’s 1932 pageant. We hear about Lally’s pioneering role as the first female pageant master and her exploration of gender roles both on and off stage.

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From the archive: Exploring LGBTQ+ history in the Wernher Collection at Ranger’s House Feb 20, 2025

We’re working behind the scenes to make the podcast better than ever. In the meantime, we’re diving into our archive to bring you some of our favourite episodes.

Join senior interpretation manager Nick Collinson, properties historian Andrew Roberts and young producer Katie Burke to discuss the LGBTQ+ history connected to a selection of the objects in the Wernher Collection at Ranger’s House.

To discover more about Ranger’s House or to plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/rangershouse

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Speaking with shadows: the people of Hadrian's Wall Feb 13, 2025

We’re still busy behind the scenes, so in the meantime we wanted to share a special series with you called Speaking with Shadows.

It sees Josie Long teaming up with English Heritage to uncover some of the most fascinating forgotten stories from England’s past. We hope you enjoy it.

In this episode, Josie travels to Birdoswald Roman Fort on Hadrian’s Wall to learn about the complex and diverse communities that travelled there from across the Roman Empire.

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From the archive: The story behind reggae legend Bob Marley’s blue plaque in London Feb 06, 2025

We’re working behind the scenes to make the podcast better than ever. In the meantime, we’re diving into our archive to bring you some of our favourite episodes.

This week, we interview historian Howard Spencer to reveal the story behind the new blue plaque at the Chelsea house where reggae singing sensation Bob Marley lived in 1977 after fleeing from Jamaica.

To find out more about our blue plaque scheme, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/blue-plaques/

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Speaking with shadows: Richmond Castle’s Conscientious Objectors Jan 30, 2025

We’re still busy behind the scenes, so in the meantime we wanted to share a special series with you called Speaking with Shadows.

It sees Josie Long teaming up with English Heritage to uncover some of the most fascinating forgotten stories from England’s past. We hope you enjoy it.

Beside Richmond Castle’s imposing Norman keep lies an unassuming military cell block with an extraordinary secret. Its fragile walls are inscribed with thousands of graffiti, many of them left by conscientious objectors imprisoned there during the First World War. These were men from all walks of life, united by one belief: that war was wrong. Thanks to the very personal graffiti these men left behind, we’ve been able to piece together the stories of some of their lives.

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Speaking with shadows: The Caribbean Prisoners of Portchester Castle Jan 23, 2025

We’re still busy behind the scenes, so in the meantime we wanted to share a special series with you called Speaking with Shadows.

It sees Josie Long teaming up with English Heritage to uncover some of the most fascinating forgotten stories from England’s past. We hope you enjoy it.

In this episode, we visit Portchester Castle to hear about the black prisoners of war who were captured during the Napoleonic wars and brought all the way from the Caribbean to be imprisoned at the castle.

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From the archive: Ask the experts: Everything you want to know about England’s monasteries Jan 16, 2025

We’re working behind the scenes to make the podcast better than ever. In the meantime, we’re diving into our archive to bring you some of our favourite episodes.

In this episode, we put your questions on England’s monasteries to senior properties historian Dr Michael Carter and Janet Burton, Professor of Medieval History at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David. Discover what life was like for the monks and nuns who lived worked and worshipped at them, how they amassed such wealth, what happened to the monks and nuns after they were closed and much more.

To learn more about English Heritage’s monastic sites or to plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/learn/histories/monasteries-and-abbeys

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From the archive: Ask the experts: everything you want to know about castles Jan 09, 2025

We’re working behind the scenes to make the podcast better than ever. In the meantime, we’re diving into our archive to bring you some of our favourite episodes.

Did you know that English Heritage cares for more castles than anyone else? Join us as we discover the definition of a castle, why the Normans couldn’t stop building them and how they have changed over time. If you’ve ever wondered what a Motte and Bailey castle is or which was the most besieged English Heritage castle, this is the episode for you!

To learn more about our mighty collection of castles, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/castles

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From the archive: Ask the experts: Everything you want to know about the Neolithic Jan 02, 2025

We’re working behind the scenes to make the podcast better than ever. In the meantime, we’re diving into our archive to bring you some of our favourite episodes.

This week, we join archaeologist Dr Susan Greaney and Stonehenge curator Dr Heather Sebire to answer your questions about the Neolithic period. Discover what Neolithic people ate, how they navigated their way across the British Isles and if Neolithic people ever got married. Plus, learn the secrets of our most famous Neolithic monument, Stonehenge.

To learn more about the history of Stonehenge, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/stonehenge

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From the archive: Celebrating England’s post-Christmas winter traditions Dec 26, 2024

We’re working behind the scenes to make the podcast better than ever. In the meantime, we’re diving into our archive to bring you some of our favourite episodes.

With Christmas now (just) behind us, we’re joined by former English Heritage trustee and Professor of History at the University of Bristol, Ronald Hutton, to look at the origins of some of England’s other winter traditions. Discover the origins of Plough Monday, Wassailing, Mummers’ plays, Valentine’s Day, Shrove Tuesday and Kissing Friday.

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From the archive: Exploring Victorian Christmas traditions Dec 19, 2024

We’re working behind the scenes to make the podcast better than ever. In the meantime, we’re diving into our archive to bring you some of our favourite episodes.

This week, we join properties historians’ team leader Dr Andrew Hann, and director of the Dickens Museum in London Dr Cindy Sughrue, to take a very festive look back at the Christmas traditions that started in the Victorian period. We also examine the role that Charles Dickens played in shaping Christmas as we know it – and how the man himself celebrated the festive season with his family.

To learn more about the Victorian origins of some of today’s Christmas traditions, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/christmas/victorian-christmas-traditions

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Bonus episode: Victorian Christmas Tales and Traditions at Wrest Park Dec 17, 2024

Join us for a bonus episode created in partnership with The Gilded Gentleman podcast. English Heritage senior properties historian Dr Michael Carter and host Carl discuss Christmases past at Wrest Park in Bedfordshire. Starting with some special stories from the First World War, they then delve back into history to discover the origins of some of our most celebrated traditions, from plum pudding to Twelfth Night.

Wrest Park boasts some of the finest gardens in England, with dazzling parterres, fragrant borders, idyllic woodland walks, and hidden gems to discover. Book your visit here: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/wrest

For more information on the American Friends of English Heritage, visit https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/american-friends/

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From the archive: Celebrating the Roman midwinter festival of Saturnalia Dec 12, 2024

We’re working behind the scenes to make the podcast better than ever. In the meantime, we’re bringing you some of our favourite episodes from the archive.

This week, as Christmas festivities get into full swing, we’re delving into the history of the Roman midwinter festival of Saturnalia. Guiding us through the details of what it was, how it was observed, and its role in influencing today’s traditions is curator for Hadrian’s Wall and the North East, Dr Frances McIntosh.

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From the archive: Christmas entertaining at English Heritage’s houses Dec 05, 2024

We’re working behind the scenes to make the podcast better than ever. In the meantime, we’re diving into our archive to bring you some of our favourite episodes.

This week, we unwrap the history of Christmas party season at four of our English Heritage sites, with properties historians team leader, Dr Andrew Hann. Discover how their rich and powerful former residents celebrated, what was on the menu at festive feasts, and how the guests were entertained.

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From the archive: Who were the Romans of Britannia? Nov 28, 2024

Over the next few weeks, we’re working behind the scenes to make the podcast better than ever. In the meantime, we’re diving into our archive to bring you some of our favourite episodes.

This week, revisit the Romans of ‘Britannia’ with English Heritage properties historian, Andrew Roberts and curator, Cameron Moffett. Discover who the Romans living and working in Britain at that time were, where they had come from and how their way of life fitted in with existing British culture.

To learn more about life in Roman Britain, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/learn/story-of-england/romans

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Episode 294 - The 1266 siege of Kenilworth Castle Nov 21, 2024

In the summer of 2024, eight catapult shot were discovered at Kenilworth Castle during a project to improve paths in and around the castle. Ranging in weight between 1kg and 105kg, the stone balls are believed to have been fired during the momentous 172-day-long siege of the castle in 1266. We’re joined by properties historian Dr William Wyeth to discover the story of the siege, the people who took part and its legacy today.

To discover more about the history of Kenilworth Castle and Elizabethan Garden, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/kenilworth-castle/history-and-stories

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Episode 293 - A delicious history of the English pie Nov 14, 2024

This week, we’ve got a mouthwatering treat for you as we’re joined by food historian Sam Bilton to dig into the story and evolution of this much-loved winter warmer. Discover what constitutes a pie, the earliest record of one, the ingredients pie makers through the ages experimented with and whether the humble pie still has a place in our 21st century, health-conscious world.

To discover more about the history of the English pie, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/inspire-me/a-history-of-the-english-pie

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Episode 292 - Hailes Abbey and the Holy Blood Nov 06, 2024

This week, we’re looking back at the history of Hailes Abbey, a ruined monastery in the Cotswold countryside, which was once one of the most significant pilgrimage sites in medieval England. For centuries, visitors flocked here to see the Holy Blood of Hailes – a prized relic said to be a portion of the blood of Jesus Christ. We’re joined by English Heritage senior properties historian Dr Michael Carter and Hailes Abbey’s property manager Jess Eyres to discover how the Holy Blood came here, the miracles attributed to it, what happened to it and everything today’s visitors can expect to find.

To discover more about the story of Hailes Abbey and the Holy Blood, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/hailes-abbey/history-and-stories

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Episode 291 - Ask the experts: England’s medieval kings and queens Oct 31, 2024

Today, we’re joined by English Heritage’s senior properties historian, Dr Steven Brindle, and head properties curator, Dr Jeremy Ashbee,to answer all your questions about England’s medieval kings and queens. Join us as we reveal which medieval monarch had the greatest impact on English history, the perils of being a member of the Royal Family at the time, what happened to Henry VIII’s tomb and more.

To discover more about England’s kings and queens through history, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/inspire-me/monarchy

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Episode 290 - Halloween, All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day Oct 24, 2024

As we head into the darker part of the year, we’re preparing for a trio of historical events designed to commemorate the dead. Everyone knows Halloween, of course, but what about All Saints' Day and All Souls’ Day, which follow straight after? We’re joined by English Heritage’s senior properties historian, Dr Michael Carter, to find out more.

To discover more, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/halloween-saints-souls/

For more spooky stories, gruesome tales and unmissable Halloween events, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/Halloween

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Episode 289 - Women in politics in the 1920s Oct 17, 2024

Today, we’re marking 100 years since the 1924 general election, which saw 41 women compete for seats in the UK’s House of Commons. One of the candidates that year was Mary Katherine Middleton of Belsay Hall in Northumberland, northeast England. Joining us to talk about her life, her accomplishments, and the women’s political movement of the time are properties historian Andrew Roberts and historian of women and politics in modern Britain Dr Lisa Berry Waite.

To learn more about the Mary Middleton’s story, go to: www.english-heritage.org.uk/mary-middleton

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Episode 288 - Revealing the historic voices of Brixton Oct 10, 2024

We’re joined in the studio by the founders and young members from the Voices Project to learn about a new walking tour they’re creating to celebrate the Black history of Brixton, London. Discover the stories they uncovered, the blue plaques that feature on their route and what they hope their new tour will help to achieve.

To learn more about English Heritage’s youth engagement project, Shout Out Loud, go to www.shoutoutloud.org.uk

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Episode 287 - Beyond 1066: who was William the Conqueror? Oct 03, 2024

Many of us are familiar with ‘William the Conqueror’, but he was also William, Duke of Normandy and William the Bastard. So how did a duke with questionable legitimacy rise through the nobility on the opposite side of the Channel then seize a foreign crown? Who was he? What did he do after the invasion? And how did his story end? Joining us with the answers are senior properties curator Roy Porter and curator of collections and interiors Dr Kathryn Bedford.

To learn more about the legacy of William the Conqueror, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/inspire-me/blog/blog-posts/what-was-the-legacy-of-william-the-conqueror

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Episode 286 - John of Gaunt: the founder of a dynasty Sep 26, 2024

John of Gaunt was the Duke of Lancaster, a medieval prince and the richest man in England for most of his life. The founder of the Lancastrian dynasty, he ensured that three Henrys would become king and had connections to six castles that are cared for by English Heritage today. Joining us to discuss his life and legacy is curator of collections and interiors, Dickon Whitewood.

To discover more about John of Gaunt’s former home, Kenilworth Castle, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/kenilworth

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Episode 285 - Behind the Scenes of a Roman Villa Sep 19, 2024

This week, we're on-site at North Leigh Roman Villa in Oxfordshire – one of the larger villas of Roman Britain, which once included 16 mosaic floors and 11 rooms with underfloor heating. As a major conservation project gets underway, we find out about who lived here, how the site was discovered and the important work taking place to protect it. Joining us are senior properties curator (west) Win Scutt, collections conservator (west) Wendy Richardson, and national project manager Zoe Stubbs.

For more information on North Leigh Roman Villa, go to: www.english-heritage.org.uk/north-leigh-roman-villa

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Episode 284 - Lady Elizabeth Russell: Keeper of Donnington Castle Sep 12, 2024

This week, we’re getting to know possibly the first woman in England to be accorded the role of ‘Keeper’ of a castle. As well as possessing Donnington Castle, Lady Elizabeth Russell was highly educated and ambitious, and her extraordinary life even included a run-in with Shakespeare. Here to tell us more are English Heritage interpretation manager Jessica Freeland, and associate professor at the Shakespeare Institute Dr Chris Laoutaris.

To find out more about Donnington Castle, go to: www.english-heritage.org.uk/donnington

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Episode 283 - Vincent Van Gogh in London Sep 05, 2024

As a young man working for Dutch art dealer Goupil & Co, Vincent Van Gogh was sent to London in 1873 to work in the firm's Covent Garden branch. Two months later he moved to a house in Stockwell – a building now marked by a blue plaque. In this episode, we're joined by Van Gogh House London's Alice Childs and Livia Wang, and art critic Andrew Graham-Dixon, to explore Van Gogh's life in the city and the role it played in inspiring him to become an artist.

To find out more about London's blue plaques, go to: www.english-heritage.org.uk/blue-plaques

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Episode 282 - Life as a medieval nun Aug 29, 2024

Nuns played an important part in Anglo-Saxon religion and society, and remained integral to English religious, social, political and economic life for the rest of the Middle Ages. But what was daily life like, why did women choose to become nuns, and what happened to nunneries following the Dissolution? To find out more, we're joined by senior properties historian Dr Michael Carter and professor of medieval history Janet Burton.

To discover more about women and monasticism, go to: www.english-heritage.org.uk/abbeys

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Episode 281 - Harry Hotspur and Warkworth Castle Aug 22, 2024

Sir Henry 'Hotspur' Percy (1364–1403) was the most admired knight of his time. He fought in several campaigns against the Scots and the French during the Hundred Years' War, was a prime mover behind the deposition of Richard II, rebelled against Henry IV and was featured in plays by Shakespeare. Here to discuss his remarkable life is properties historian Dr William Wyeth.

To find out more about Warkworth Castle, go to: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/warkworth/

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Bonus episode - Summer with Queen Victoria: Life at Osborne Aug 20, 2024

In this special episode created in partnership with The Gilded Gentleman podcast, English Heritage curator of collections and interiors Christopher Warleigh-Lack joins host Carl to discuss Queen Victoria’s grand estate on the Isle of Wight.

Osborne House reveals an intimate view of the private life of Queen Victoria and her family. Book your visit here: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/osborne/

For more information on the American Friends of English Heritage, visit https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/american-friends/

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Episode 280 - Bad King John: England’s worst monarch? Aug 15, 2024

King John, who reigned from 1199 to 1216, has gone down in history as one of England's worst monarchs, thanks to his military failures and excommunication by the pope. Yet he is associated with significant historical events, including the signing of the Magna Carta. Senior properties historian Dr Steven Brindle and senior properties curator Roy Porter join us to determine why this medieval ruler's reputation is so terrible – and whether it's deserved.

To learn more about King John and the sieges of Dover Castle, go to: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/sieges-of-dover

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Episode 279 - Uncovering the prehistoric Uffington White Horse Aug 08, 2024

This week, we're in Oxfordshire to unravel the story of a landmark that has been here for around 3,000 years: the Uffington White Horse. As excavations of the site take place, we join senior properties curator Win Scutt and archaeologist David Miles to discover more about their research, and to find out about the work taking place to restore the oldest chalk-cut hill figure in Britain.

For more information on the Uffington White Horse project, go to: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/uffington-wh-project

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Episode 278 - Marble Hill: how to build a Georgian villa Aug 01, 2024

Today, we’re looking at the history of one of the last complete surviving Georgian villas along the River Thames in south-east London. Marble Hill belonged to Henrietta Howard and was created to provide an escape away from her life in Georgian court society. But how was it designed? And how did Henrietta start building this remarkable property? We’re joined by senior properties historian Dr Megan Leyland to find out more.

To learn more about Marble Hill or plan a visit, go to: www.english-heritage.org.uk/marblehill

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Episode 277 - In the Ayahs’ Home: Pioneering Indian and Chinese Women in Hackney Jul 25, 2024

Today we're marking South Asian Heritage Month with a look at the Ayahs' Home – the Hackney property for nannies and nursemaids from Asia that is now honoured by a blue plaque. Joining us to reveal the stories of the pioneering Indian and Chinese women who lived here in the early 1900s are blue plaques historian Dr Rebecca Preston and the manager of Hackney Museum, Niti Acharya.

To learn more about the Ayahs' Home, go to: www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/blue-plaques/ayahs-home

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Episode 276 - The lost art of the parterre garden Jul 18, 2024

Today, we meet English Heritage landscape advisor Emily Parker and head gardener Andrew Luke to explore the eye-catching parterre gardens at Wrest Park in Bedfordshire. Discover the history of these ornamental flower beds, what goes into planting and maintaining them today and where else you can admire similar schemes.

To learn more about our perfect parterres, go to: www.english-heritage.org.uk/learn/histories/perfect-parterres/

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Episode 275 - Secrets of the Corbridge Hoard Jul 11, 2024

On the 60th anniversary of the discovery of the Corbridge Hoard, we’re joined by English Heritage collections curator Dr Frances McIntosh and archaeologist and writer Mike Bishop to reveal the story of one of the most significant finds from Roman Britain.

To learn more about the Corbridge Hoard, go to: www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/corbridge-roman-town-hadrians-wall/things-to-do/the-corbridge-hoard

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Episode 274 - Heroes of the 1924 Paris Olympics Jul 04, 2024

As Team GB athletes prepare to compete at the Paris Olympics, we’re going back a hundred years to discover the stories of the Olympic heroes of Paris in 1924 who are commemorated with blue plaques in London today. Joining us to discuss their lives and achievements are blue plaques senior historian Howard Spencer and director of the International Centre for Sports History and Culture at De Montfort University, professor Martin Polley.

To learn more about our blue plaque Olympians, go to: www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/blue-plaques/blue-plaque-stories/olympic-heroes

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Episode 273 - Pandemic: how the Black Death ravaged medieval England Jun 27, 2024

This week, we’re looking back at the origins and effects of a global pandemic that shook the medieval world. Joining us on our journey back to the 1340s, when the Black Death started to claim its first victims in England, is Professor of Later Medieval History at the University of East Anglia, Mark Bailey. We discover its causes, how it swept across Europe and its legacy in England today.

To learn more about the history of our medieval monasteries, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/learn/histories/abbeys-and-priories

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Episode 272 - The decline of the English country house Jun 20, 2024

This week we’re joined by English Heritage historians’ team leader Dr Andrew Hann and senior properties historian Dr Steven Brindle to discuss the story of Sutton Scarsdale Hall in Derbyshire. We'll cover the decline of this Georgian mansion, the issues that affected many of England’s grand country houses and the work of charities such as English Heritage to save them for the nation.

To learn more about Sutton Scarsdale Hall or to plan a visit, go to: www.english-heritage.org.uk/sutton-scarsdale-hall

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Episode 271 - Ask the experts: Summer solstice at Stonehenge Jun 13, 2024

As we approach midsummer, we’re joined by English Heritage senior properties historian Jennifer Wexler to answer your questions about the summer solstice at Stonehenge. Discover why the solstice is important, how Neolithic people understood and celebrated it and how living traditions can help us to understand the function of the site. We’ll also reveal where the idea of creating stone circles came from, what happened to Stonehenge’s missing stones and more.

To learn more about Stonehenge or plan a visit, go to: www.english-heritage.org.uk/stonehenge

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Episode 270 - England’s rulers and their ‘favourites’ Jun 06, 2024

To mark Pride month this June, we’re taking a look at LGBTQ+ history and the private lives of four rulers who had same-sex relationships with their ‘favourites’. Joining us to discuss Roman Emperor Hadrian, Edward II, James I and Queen Anne are interpretation manager Nick Collison, head properties curator Dr Jeremy Ashbee, queer historian Kris Reid and curator of collections & interiors (Osborne House & Isle of Wight) Dr Christopher Warleigh-Lack.

To discover more LGBTQ+ history at our sites, go to: www.english-heritage.org.uk/learn/histories/lgbtq-history

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Episode 269 - Exploring the Roman Lake District May 30, 2024

Today, we’re discovering just how far Roman influence spread through Britain, as we explore the stories of three fascinating forts in spectacular locations in northwest England’s Lake District. Joining us to discuss the stories and functions of Ravenglass Roman Bath House, Hardknott Roman Fort and Ambleside Roman Fort in Cumbria are English Heritage properties historian Dr Andrew Roberts and free sites coordinator Lauren Emslie.

To find out more about the Romans in the Lake District, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/romanlakedistrict

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Episode 268 - Building better communities: celebrating two pioneering women May 23, 2024

Today, we’re joined by English Heritage historian Dr Rebecca Preston and Professor of real estate practice law, Carrie de Silva to reveal the stories of two 20th-century women who have recently been honoured with London blue plaques. During their lifetimes, both Irene Barclay and Lady Marjory Allen contributed to improving people’s lives through their surroundings – Barclay as a convention-breaking housing reformer and Allen as a landscape architect and pioneer of children’s adventure playgrounds.

To learn more about our blue plaque scheme, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/blue-plaques

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Episode 267 - Day of reckoning: remembering the events of D-Day May 16, 2024

We’re joined by senior properties historian Paul Pattison and independent historian and author of Mission France, Dr Kate Vigurs, ahead of the 80th anniversary of D-Day. We’ll reveal the story of the biggest landing by land, sea and air the world has ever seen, including how long it took to plan, the roles of Operation Neptune and Overlord and how the initial assault on northern France on 6 June 1944 helped to bring about the end of the Second World War.

To learn about Operation Fortitude South and the D-Day Deception, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/dover-castle/history-and-stories/d-day-deception

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Episode 266 - Art and Ideals: Vanessa Bell, Duncan Grant and the Bloomsbury Group May 09, 2024

This week, we’re discussing the lives, loves, work and legacies of two unconventional artists from the early 20th century. Vanessa Bell and Duncan Grant were part of the Bloomsbury group of writers, intellectuals, philosophers and artists in London – a group it was once said ‘lived in squares, painted in circles and loved in triangles’. They rejected the past, embraced their present and expressed themselves in new ways on canvas, cementing their place in art history.

Joining us to talk us through their stories and the London blue plaque that commemorates their achievements are English Heritage blue plaques historian Dr Rebecca Preston, art critic, author and current blue plaque panel member Andrew Graham-Dixon, and writer and historian Rosemary Hill.

To learn more about the London blue plaques scheme, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/blue-plaques.

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Episode 265 - Stonehenge and the Major Lunar Standstill May 01, 2024

A Major Lunar Standstill (MLS) – an astrological phenomenon which takes place once every 18.6 years, when moonrise and moonset are furthest apart along the horizon – is due to occur in 2024 and 25. It is believed that at least one MLS was marked during the early phase of Stonehenge and some academics believe there may be a connection between this and the placement of the Station Stones at Stonehenge.

Joining us to discuss the theory and the project putting it to the test are English Heritage senior properties historian Dr Jennifer Wexler, emeritus professor of archaeoastronomy at the University of Leicester Clive Ruggles and senior lecturer in archaeological modelling at Bournemouth University Dr Fabio Silva.

To learn more about Stonehenge or find out how you can get involved, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/lunar-standstill.

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Episode 264 - Ask the Experts: Everything You Wanted to Know About Medieval Knights and Jousts Apr 25, 2024

We’re joined by English Heritage curator of collections and interiors Dickon Whitewood and jouster, author and scholar of arms and armour Tobias Capwell to answer all the questions we received about medieval knights and jousts from English Heritage members and followers on our social media accounts.

Join us to discover the rules of a joust, what a frog-mouth helmet is, the weight of a suit of armour, the practicalities of going to the toilet while wearing one and much more.

To learn more about the history of tournaments, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/inspire-me/brief-history-of-knights-tournaments.

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Episode 263 - Saving our Paintings: Jan Wijnants at Brodsworth Hall and Gardens Apr 18, 2024

This week, we’re joined by two English Heritage curators of collections, Eleanor Matthews and Louise Cooling, to mark the acquisition of a painting by Dutch artist Jan Wijnants, which has a close link with Brodsworth Hall in South Yorkshire.

Join us to discover the story of this and some of the other Dutch masterpieces that can be seen at both Brodsworth Hall and Kenwood in London.

To learn more about Brodsworth Hall and Gardens or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/brodsworth-hall.

To learn more about Kenwood or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/kenwood.

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Episode 262 - Behind the Lord Warden's Secret Door at Walmer Castle Apr 11, 2024

This week we’re in Kent to take a peek into the hidden history of Walmer Castle, one of Henry VIII’s Device Forts on England’s southeast coast, where visitors are being invited to explore the private apartments of the Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports for the first time.

We’re joined by curator of collections and interiors Kathryn Bedford to discover the history of the castle, why the Lord Warden was stationed here and what the job involves. Plus, we meet the children of a former Lord Warden to find out what it’s like growing up in one of England’s iconic fortresses.

To learn more about Walmer Castle or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/walmer.

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Episode 261 - 900 years of history at Furness Abbey Apr 04, 2024

Nine hundred years after a community of monks settled in the ‘vale of nightshade’ on the Furness peninsular, we’re joined by Senior Properties Historian Dr Michael Carter and site manager Juliet Fellows to look back at the history of Furness Abbey – once the largest and wealthiest monastery in north-west England.

Discover how the abbey became so successful, why it was a prime target during Henry VIII’s Dissolution of the Monasteries and how we’re bringing its story back to life for visitors today.

To learn more about Furness Abbey or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/furnessabbey

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Episode 260 - The military history of the Isles of Scilly Mar 28, 2024

We’re heading to the Isles of Scilly – a small cluster of islands off the tip of Cornwall in the south-west of England. Today, this peaceful archipelago is treasured for its natural beauty and holiday charm, but, in centuries past, the islands were on the frontline of Britain’s military defence.

We’re joined by senior properties curator Win Scutt and author of Defending Scilly Dr Allan Brodie to explore the islands’ military history and the heritage sites left behind as a result.

To discover more about the historic sites of the Isles of Scilly, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/learn/histories/historic-sites-of-scilly.

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Episode 259 - Long lost shells returned: from Captain Cook’s voyage to Chesters Roman Fort (via a skip) Mar 21, 2024

This week we’re discussing the story of Bridget Atkinson, a Cumbrian woman who amassed a huge collection of shells from across the globe during the 18th century.

We’re joined by English Heritage Collections Curator Dr Frances McIntosh, Principal Curator at the Natural History Museum Dr Tom White, Bath Spa University lecturer Matthew Law and family researcher Richard Atkinson. They reveal who she was, how she collected her shells despite rarely leaving her home county and how a family connection led to a selection of her recently rescued treasures going on display in the Clayton Museum at Chesters Roman Fort on Hadrian’s Wall.

To plan a visit to see Bridget’s shells for yourself, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/chesters

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Episode 258 - Seeing Belsay Hall in a new light with artist Ingrid Pollard Mar 14, 2024

We're joined by Turner Prize-nominated artist and photographer, Ingrid Pollard, to discuss her new art installation, titled 'There is Light in the Fissures', at Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens in Northumberland.

Discover what inspired her artwork and what you can expect to find during a visit as a result. Plus, we chat to English Heritage's Chris Osborne who reveals the plans for other thought-provoking creative installations at English Heritage sites across the country.

To find out more about our creative programme plans, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/creative-programme/

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Episode 257 - Mum's the word: an exploration of maternity and motherhood Mar 07, 2024

This week, as we approach Mother's Day here in the UK, we're joined by senior properties historian Dr Megan Leyland and senior lecturer in history at the University of Derby Dr Ruth Larsen to examine how mothers raised their children in the past. Join us as we look back at life for mothers and those who helped them between the 16th and 19th centuries, drawing on the stories of people who lived and worked at English Heritage properties.

Content warning: this episode includes discussion of sensitive topics, including baby loss and miscarriage, that some listeners might find uncomfortable.

For inspiration for a family day out with your mum, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/familydaysout/mothers-day.

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Episode 256 - What happened after the Romans left Britain? Feb 29, 2024

Britain was part of the Roman Empire for over three-and-a-half centuries. Following the invasion under the emperor Claudius in AD 43, the province was part of a political union that covered most of Europe. But what happened in Britannia when rule from Rome ended in the early 5th century?

Cameron Moffett, English Heritage's curator of collections for the West Midlands, and Dr Roger White, honorary senior lecturer in archaeology at the University of Birmingham, explore the end of an empire.

To learn more about Roman Britain, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/romans.

To learn more about Wroxeter Roman City or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/wroxeter.

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Episode 255 - Walking Offa's Dyke Feb 22, 2024

This week, we head to Gloucestershire for a stroll along a section of Offa's Dyke — the great earthwork boundary dyke built along the Anglo-Welsh border by Offa, King of Mercia, and one of the most remarkable structures in Britain.

We're joined by professor in archaeology Keith Ray, who reveals when and why Offa's Dyke was built, who the Mercians were, how they used the structure, and how the dyke is protected and maintained today.

To learn more about Offa's Dyke or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/offas-dyke.

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Episode 254 - Art and activism: the life and legacy of Derek Jarman Feb 15, 2024

We're joined by senior historian for the blue plaques scheme Howard Spencer and writer and performer Mark Farrelly to explore the life and legacy of filmmaker, artist and activist Derek Jarman, who died 30 years ago and was commemorated by a London blue plaque in 2019.

Join us to discover the story of Jarman's career, his role as a gay rights activist and the new touring show that has been created to document his colourful life.

To learn more about Derek Jarman's blue plaque, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/blue-plaques/derek-jarman.

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Episode 253 - True romances: the perfect partnerships made at our sites Feb 08, 2024

Valentine's Day is on its way and romance is most definitely in the air, so we're focusing our attention on a selection of the love stories that played out at English Heritage sites.

Joining us to discuss the true romances formed at Osborne on the Isle of Wight, Brodsworth Hall in South Yorkshire, Wrest Park in Bedfordshire and Eltham Palace in London are collections curator Eleanor Matthews and properties historians team leader Dr Andrew Hann.

To learn more about Victoria and Albert's time at Osborne, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/osborne.

To learn more about life at Brodsworth Hall, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/brodsworth.

To learn more about life at Wrest Park during the First World War, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/wrest-park/history/wrest-park-at-war.

To learn more about the history of Eltham Palace, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/eltham.

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Episode 252 - Uncovering the mystery of the Corbridge dodecahedra Feb 01, 2024

Hidden among the collections at Corbridge Roman Town on Hadrian's Wall in Northumberland are a series of dodecahedra (12 sided objects) made of copper alloy that have been puzzling archaeologists since the 18th century. Each one is slightly different, but have common features, with a hole in the centre, decoration and knobs on each corner.

We're joined in the studio by collections curator Dr Frances McIntosh to discuss these rare Roman objects, the theories about their use and the new exhibition they have inspired.

To learn more about the dodecahedra at Corbridge Roman Town, go to https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/corbridge-roman-town-hadrians-wall/dodecahedron-exhibition/

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Episode 251 - The remarkable rise and fall of Old Sarum Jan 25, 2024

This week, we're joined by senior properties historian Dr Steven Brindle and historian John McNeill to discuss the story of Old Sarum in Wiltshire — one of the most eclectic and important sites in southern England, with over 2,000 years of history.

Continuously occupied since Roman times, it uniquely combines a royal castle and cathedral within the remains of an Iron Age fortification. Join us to discover how it was once the setting of the Oath of Sarum under William the Conqueror and the location of Salisbury's original Cathedral before becoming a rotten borough.

To learn more about Old Sarum or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/oldsarum.

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Episode 250 - Eels: medieval England's forgotten currency Jan 18, 2024

This week, we're tracing the fascinating story of an almost forgotten currency. In early medieval England, eels were exchanged for goods and services and to settle debts.

We're joined by medievalist and cartographic historian Dr John Wyatt Greenlee to reveal how these once abundant fish powered the medieval economy, why they were coveted as both a food and currency and what caused their eventual fall from favour.

To learn more about Meare Fish House or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/meare-fish-house.

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Episode 249 - Leap years, Candlemas and other archaic calendar traditions Jan 11, 2024

We're joined in the studio by senior properties historian Michael Carter to take a look at the annual traditions and events that mark the early part of the year — some we still celebrate today, while others have slipped into obscurity. Join us to discover the origins of Plough Monday, St Hilary's Day, Candlemas, Ash Wednesday and more. Plus, we reveal why we have leap years and why these take place on 29 February.

To learn more about Candlemas and why you shouldn't take your Christmas decorations down until 2 February, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/christmas/leaving-up-christmas-decorations.

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Episode 248 - England’s lost composer: George Jeffreys at Kirby Hall Jan 04, 2024

This week we're honouring the life of a 17th-century composer, who lived and worked at Kirby Hall in Northamptonshire. George Jeffreys was both a steward and in-house musician for the Hattons — a wealthy family who became entangled in the Civil Wars. But now, his music and memory have been reborn, thanks to a new album recorded on-site at Kirby Hall.

We're joined by curator of collections Dickon Whitewood, musicologist and performer Professor Jonathan Wainwright and Solomon's Knot artistic director Jonathan Sells to discover Jeffreys story and listen to his music in the place it was created.

To learn more about Kirby Hall or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/kirby-hall.

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Episode 247 - Kits Coty House and the Medway Megaliths Dec 28, 2023

Today, we're in Kent in southeast England to meet English Heritage properties historians Dr Jennifer Wexler and Dr Alastair Oswald and visit an ancient sacred site with a fascinating story.

Kit's Coty House and its neighbour, Little Kit's Coty House, are the remains of two megalithic 'dolmen' burial chambers. Discover who built them, how they were used and why this is a great time to visit on the 150th anniversary of Kits Coty House becoming a scheduled monument.

To learn more about Kits Coty House or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/kits-coty-house-and-little-kits-coty-house/history.

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Episode 246 - Ask the experts: everything you wanted to know about the history of Christmas Dec 21, 2023

We're joined in the studio by properties historian Dr Will Wyeth, senior properties historian Dr Megan Leyland and properties historian team leader Dr Andrew Hann to answer all the questions we received about the history of Christmas from English Heritage Members and followers on our social media accounts.

Join us to discover how the origins of Christmas date back over 2,000 years, when geese were first swapped for turkeys on the dinner table, how Boxing Day got its name and much more.

To learn more about the history of Christmas, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/christmas/the-history-of-christmas

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Episode 245 - Christmas misbehaviour and the Lords of Misrule Dec 14, 2023

This week, we're joined by senior properties historian Dr Michael Carter to find out how people in the past entertained themselves during the cold and dark midwinter — and the festive mischief they got up to at this time of year.

Join us to learn about Christmas irreverence through the ages, the curious traditions of boy bishops, the Bean King and the Lord of Misrule, and the English Heritage sites where these festivities took place.

To learn more about the Lord of Misrule, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/members-area/members-magazine/2021/the-lord-of-misrule.

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Episode 244 - Mead, mulsum and merrymaking: a brief history of booze Dec 07, 2023

As the Christmas party season gets into full swing, we're taking a look back at the history of alcoholic drinks through the ages. From mead to mulsum, beer to brandy, and wine to whisky — they're all on the menu in our figurative festive pub. Joining us to raise a glass and explain all are English Heritage curator of collections Cameron Moffett and drinks expert and writer Jane Peyton.

To learn more about mead and find some mead cocktail recipes, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/about-us/search-news/mead-resurgence.

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Episode 243 - St Milburga: princess, abbess, miracle worker Nov 30, 2023

Today, we're joined by English Heritage senior properties historian Dr Michael Carter to reveal the story of St Milburga, who was a princess, the second abbess of Wenlock Priory, and a woman of international renown. Discover the story of her royal roots, her rise to Christian renown and the miraculous cures attributed to this little-known saint.

To learn more about St Milburga, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/wenlock-priory/history/st-milburga.

To plan a visit to Wenlock Priory, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/wenlock-priory.

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Episode 242 - How to stay healthy in Roman Britain Nov 23, 2023

This week, we’re exploring the secrets to living a healthy life in Roman Britain. The Roman’s well documented love of bathing was one aspect of this, along with exercise, ancient medical science, religion and even superstition. Joining us to shine a light on Roman medicine and healthcare are English Heritage properties historian Dr Andrew Roberts and curators Cameron Moffett and Dr Frances McIntosh.

Content warning: this podcast contains graphic descriptions of historic medical procedures that some listeners might find uncomfortable.

To learn more about baths and bathing in Roman Britain, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/learn/story-of-england/romans/roman-bathing

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Episode 241 - Nye Bevan and the founding of the National Health Service Nov 16, 2023

Today, we’re looking back at the story of the man who brought free healthcare to the UK in the years after the Second World War. Aneurin Bevan – also known as Nye Bevan – was the founding father of the National Health Service or NHS, which 75 years on, remains at the heart of British life.

Joining us to discuss Bevan’s life and legacy, and the London blue plaque commemorating his achievements, is senior historian for the blue plaques scheme, Howard Spencer.

To learn more about our London blue plaques scheme, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/blue-plaques.

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Episode 240 - A history of England in stinking sewage Nov 09, 2023

This week, we’re holding our noses to tackle the history of toilets through the ages, from latrines, privies and reredorters to garderobes and even thunderboxes!

Joining us to flush out the stories of long drops, dung gatherers and the first public conveniences are senior properties historian Dr Michael Carter and historical archaeologist Dr Ian West.

To learn more about toilets through time, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/inspire-me/blog/blog-posts/top-10-toilets-through-time.

To find out more about Joseph Bazalgette and the location of his blue plaque, go to https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/blue-plaques/joseph-william-bazalgette/

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Episode 239 - The Lady of the Isle: Isabella de Fortibus and Carisbrooke Castle Nov 02, 2023

Join us to discover the story of one of England’s wealthiest and most powerful medieval noblewomen, Isabella de Fortibus (1237–1293). Married at an early age before becoming a wealthy young widow and heiress, she was pursued by many ambitious suitors hoping to acquire her wealth and lands while she lived at Carisbrooke Castle on the Isle of Wight.

And it’s here that we begin our story with our guests, English Heritage senior properties curator Sam Stones and documentation officer Dr Therron Welstead.

To learn more about Carisbrooke Castle or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/carisbrooke.

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Episode 238 - Stonehenge and the Festival of Neolithic Ideas Oct 26, 2023

This week, we’re making history at Stonehenge, as our most famous prehistoric site hosts its first ever Festival of Neolithic Ideas on 11 and 12 November 2023.

Joining us to tell us more about the event and how our understanding of Stonehenge and its Neolithic builders is continuing to develop are English Heritage properties historian Dr Jennifer Wexler and head of learning and interpretation Dr Dominque Bouchard.

To learn more about Stonehenge or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/stonehenge.

To find out more about the festival of Neolithic ideas, go to https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/whats-on/stonehenge-festival-of-neolithic-ideas/

To listen to some of the other prehistory podcasts we mention in this episode, go to https://soundcloud.com/englishheritage/sets/stonehenge-and-prehistory

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Episode 237 - The horrifying history of Farleigh Hungerford Castle Oct 19, 2023

As the nights grow long and Halloween approaches, we’re discussing the dark and sinister history of Farleigh Hungerford Castle near Bath. Home to the Hungerford family for over 300 years, it’s a place where you can see Britain’s best collection of human-shaped lead coffins, explore a creepy crypt and learn about murder, disaster and scandal – one part even linked to witchcraft.

Joining us to explain more is historian and author of the English Heritage guidebook to Farleigh Hungerford Castle, Charles Kightly.

To learn more about Farleigh Hungerford Castle or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/farleigh.

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Episode 236 - Unlocking the story of Portchester's black and mixed-heritage prisoners of war Oct 12, 2023

This week we’re shifting our attention to Portchester Castle in Hampshire on England’s south coast. Situated at the northern end of Portsmouth Harbour, this site has a history stretching back as far as the Romans. The later castle was also a place for thousands of international prisoners during the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic wars, including 2,000 black soldiers.

Joining us to talk about how the prisoners came to be here, what prison life was like for them and how their stories are being brought to life today are English Heritage’s head of learning and interpretation, Dr Dominique Bouchard, education visits officer, Laura Bosworth, and associate director at Soho Theatre, Lakesha Arie-Angelo.

To learn more about Portchester Castle or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/portchestercastle.

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Episode 235 - Ask The Experts: everything you want to know about the Battle of Hastings Oct 05, 2023

We’re joined in the studio by senior properties curator Roy Porter and curator of collections and interiors Kathryn Bedford to answer all the questions we received about the Battle of Hastings from English Heritage Members and followers on our social media accounts.

Join us to discover the conflict behind the battle, how the Normans managed to transport their cavalry from France and if Harold really did get killed by an arrow to the eye. Plus, we reveal how life changed for the average person in England following the battle and what might have happened if William the Conqueror had lost.

To learn more about the origins, events and legacy of the Battle of Hastings, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/learn/histories/1066-and-the-norman-conquest.

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Episode 234 - A royal raid: the 1303 burglary of the Crown Jewel treasury Sep 28, 2023

This week, we’re tracing the story of a historic heist. But it’s not the one from the 1660s involving the Crown Jewels and the Tower of London that some people might recognise. This raid dates back more than 700 years to 1303 and the reign of King Edward I, taking place in unlikely surroundings.

Helping us piece together the story are English Heritage’s head properties curator Dr Jeremy Ashbee and medieval historian Sally Dixon-Smith.

For more information about Chapter House and Pyx Chamber or to plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/chapter-house-and-pyx-chamber.

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Episode 233 - Celebrating the Women’s Freedom League with our 1,000th blue plaque Sep 21, 2023

This week, we’re celebrating a historic landmark for the London Blue Plaques scheme after our 1,000th plaque was unveiled to commemorate the work of the Women’s Freedom League.

To help us understand more about the plaque and the league’s role in the suffrage movement in the early 20th century, we’re joined by English Heritage’s blue plaque historian Howard Spencer, historian Susan Skedd and writer and historian Jill Liddington.

For details of our blue plaques scheme, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/blue-plaques.

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Episode 232 - A delight for the senses at our historic gardens Sep 14, 2023

This week you find us Audley End in Essex, where we’re joined by English Heritage landscape advisor and historian, Louise Crawley and PHD student, Helen Brown, to learn how our historic gardens were designed to stimulate different senses.

Join us to discover how sensory experiences can help to understand the past, how sensory experiences in the past differ from those we have now and what you should look out for during a visit to one of our historic gardens today.

For details of our historic gardens or to plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/inspire-me/historic-gardens.

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Episode 231 - History lesson: education at medieval schools Sep 07, 2023

As a new school year gets underway, we’re joined by senior properties historian Michael Carter to discover what education was like in the Middle Ages and how it compared to today’s classrooms.

Discover the different forms of medieval schools, the role of the monasteries as educators and how the educational opportunities differed for boys and girls. We’ll also reveal what the curriculum comprised, what a medieval school day looked like and where you can find out more today.

For details of the school visit opportunities at our historic sites, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/learn/school-visits.

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Episode 230 - Henry V at Kenilworth Castle and his 'pleasance in the marsh' Aug 31, 2023

This week, we’re talking about King Henry V, who is famous for his victory over the French at the 1415 Battle of Agincourt, his military abilities during the Hundred Years’ War with France and the Shakespeare play named after him.

Joining us to reveal more about this celebrated medieval king and the time he spent at Kenilworth Castle in Warwickshire are head historic properties curator Dr Jeremy Ashbee and emeritus professor of medieval history at the University of Southampton Anne Curry.

To discover more about the history of Kenilworth Castle and Elizabethan Garden or plan a visit, go towww.english-heritage.org.uk/kenilworth.

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Episode 229 - Reawakening Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens Aug 24, 2023

This week, we’re heading behind the scenes at Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens as the finishing touches are put on the major project to conserve and transform this historic country estate in Northumberland. Joining us to talk us through the project – which was partly funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund – and the history that has been brought to life as a result are national project manager Cheryl Moore, properties historians' team leader Dr Andrew Hann and senior gardens advisor Dr Michael Klemperer. To discover more about Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens or to plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/belsay.

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Episode 228 - Flowering interest: recreating the Stonehenge Dahlia Exhibition Aug 17, 2023

When we think of our most famous prehistoric site, Stonehenge, we don’t automatically think of flowers. But in 1842, the site played host to a huge dahlia exhibition, attended by around 10,000 people.

Joining us to reveal the story of this event and how it is being recreated over four days this autumn are English Heritage landscape advisor and historian Louise Crawley and archivist for the National Dahlia Society David Brown.

To learn more about the history of Stonehenge or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/stonehenge

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Episode 227 - Ask the experts: Everything you want to know about the Civil Wars and the Restoration Aug 10, 2023

We’re joined in the studio by senior properties historian Paul Pattison and senior properties curator Roy Porter to answer all the questions we received about the English Civil Wars and Restoration from English Heritage Members and followers on our social media.

Join us to discover the origins of the war, if the Roundheads always intended the country to become a republic and the role of Scotland, Ireland and Wales in the conflicts. We’ll also reveal if Oliver Cromwell really did cancel Christmas, how Charles II evaded the Parliamentary soldiers and what provided the turning point between the execution of Charles I and his son being crowned king.

To learn more about the origins, events and legacy of the English Civil Wars, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/learn/histories/the-english-civil-wars-history-and-stories/the-english-civil-wars.

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Episode 226 - Royal, rebel, suffragette: Princess Sophia Duleep Singh Aug 03, 2023

This week we’re joined by broadcaster and author Anita Anand and historian Susan Skedd to reveal the story of Indian princess, campaigner for women’s votes and goddaughter of Queen Victoria, Sophia Duleep Singh.

Join us as we reveal how she came to be part of the British royal family, her role in the Suffragette movement and the story behind her blue plaque at her former London residence near Hampton Court.

For more details about Princess Sophia Duleep Singh’s blue plaque, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/blue-plaques/sophia-duleep-singh.

With thanks to The Taylormade Trio who you can hear performing at the unveiling of Sophia’s plaque, in May 2023.

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Episode 225 - The extraordinary life of Margaret Cavendish Jul 27, 2023

This week we’re joined by English Heritage senior properties historian Dr Megan Leyland to look back at the remarkable life and achievements of this former duchess, philosopher, poet, playwright, science-fiction pioneer and socialite on the 400th anniversary of her birth.

Discover how Margaret Cavendish became one of the most published women of the 17th century, how she came to live at Bolsover Castle in Derbyshire and what you can learn about her during a visit today.

For more details about Bolsover Castle or to plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/bolsover.

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Episode 224 - Who was the real Robin Hood? Jul 20, 2023

Russell Crowe, Kevin Costner, Erroll Flynn and Sean Connery are just a few of the actors who have performed as Robin Hood on the big screen. But who was this legendary English outlaw, whose name continues to be recognised worldwide centuries later?

Helping us to understand the story of Robin Hood and his connection to English Heritage sites you can visit today are our two guests: English Heritage senior properties historian Dr Michael Carter and professor of late medieval and Reformation history at the University of Liverpool, Dr Martin Heale.

To plan a visit to the English Heritage sites referenced in this episode, go to: Whitby Abbey: www.english-heritage.org.uk/whitby Rievaulx Abbey: www.english-heritage.org.uk/rievaulxabbey Roche Abbey: www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/roche-abbey Rufford Abbey: www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/rufford-abbey

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Episode 223 - A portrait of artist Joshua Reynolds Jul 13, 2023

This week, we’re joined by two English Heritage curators of collections and interiors, Louise Cooling and Peter Moore, to paint a picture of one of the greatest portrait artists of the 18th century, Sir Joshua Reynolds.

Discover the story of his life and art, the Reynolds paintings you can find on display at Kenwood in London today and how we’re celebrating the 300th anniversary of his birth.

To discover more about Kenwood or plan a visit to see its art collection yourself, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/kenwood

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Episode 222 - Sailing the world with the Courtaulds 1930s-style Jul 06, 2023

As we head into the summer holidays, we’re turning back time to the early 20th century to explore the world with a very well-heeled couple. Stephen and Virginia Courtauld lived at Eltham Palace in southeast London, but when they weren’t in residence, which was often during the British winter, they could be found cruising the world in luxury on board ocean-going liners or their own private yacht. And their well-documented travels provide a fascinating insight into the lifestyles of the 1930s wealthy elite and an era before commercial flights had gone mainstream.

Taking a trip with us — and the Courtaulds — is English Heritage’s properties historians team leader Dr Andrew Hann.

To read more about the Courtauld’s travels, go to https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/courtaulds-cruises

To read more about Eltham Palace or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/eltham

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Episode 221 - Unearthing the story of Arthur's Stone Jun 29, 2023

This week, we’re joined by English Heritage properties curator Win Scutt at Arthur’s Stone in Herefordshire. We will be exploring the history of this 5,000-year-old neolithic tomb, where a team of archaeologists are about to embark on the latest round of excavations to uncover its secrets.

Join us as we discuss why this fascinating site was built, who used it, what we’re hoping to discover and how you can join us to see the excavations taking place.

To find out more about Arthur’s Stone or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/arthursstone.

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Episode 220 - Exploring the real lives of the English peasant at Wharram Percy Jun 22, 2023

When people think of the medieval peasant, they may conjure up images of the character Baldrick from the TV series Blackadder, who has arguably become the poster boy of peasantry. For most, the term ‘peasant’ suggests poverty, ignorance, missing teeth, threadbare rags and poor personal hygiene, but how close is this negative image to the truth? And what was daily life actually like for them? Joining us to separate fact from fiction are English Heritage properties historian Al Oswald and Emeritus Professor of History at the University of Leicester Christopher Dyer, who were both involved in the investigations at the famous deserted medieval village of Wharram Percy in North Yorkshire. To find out more about Wharram Percy Deserted Medieval Village or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/wharram-percy.

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Episode 219 - The Ridgeway: a walk through time along England's oldest road Jun 15, 2023

Today, we’re out for a walk to celebrate an anniversary. The Ridgeway is sometimes referred to as England's oldest road — and this year also marks its 50th anniversary as a designated National Trail. But how far back into history does this track go? What can you find along its route? And what is its link to the summer solstice?

Joining us to show us the way are anthropologist, TV presenter and author Mary-Ann Ochota and English Heritage properties historian Dr Jennifer Wexler.

To find out more about The Ridgeway or plan your own walk along the National Trail, go to www.nationaltrail.co.uk/en_GB/trails/the-ridgeway.

To find out more about the Uffington Castle — White Horse and Dragon Hill or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/uffington-castle-white-horse-and-dragon-hill.

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Episode 218 - Within these walls: Orford Castle Jun 08, 2023

How do you maintain a castle? And not just any castle – one that’s stood tall for over 850 years but has recently started to show its age. Well, that’s the question we’re putting to our English Heritage experts following a £1 million conservation project to rescue the unique keep of Orford Castle in Suffolk. This eye-catching stronghold has weathered many storms – both physical and metaphorical – in its time and, after a much-needed facelift, is ready to welcome a new generation of visitors.

Talking us through the transformation are head historic properties curator and castle expert Dr Jeremy Ashbee and senior properties curator Dr Shelley Garland.

To find out more or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/orford.

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Episode 217 - Pride of place: uncovering LGBTQ+ histories at our sites Jun 01, 2023

This week, we’re joined by English Heritage’s head of learning and interpretation Dr Dominique Bouchard and interpretation coordinator Nick Collinson to shine a light on the lives of the LGBTQ+ people from the past who have a connection to our properties or are commemorated through London blue plaques.

Join us to discover the stories of Lord Beauchamp, Anne Seymour Damer, Virginia Woolf and Radclyffe Hall, and what we’re doing to share more stories of LGBTQ+ people at our sites.

To discover more LGBTQ+ history, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/learn/histories/lgbtq-history.

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Episode 216 - Wroxeter: the heart of a Roman city May 25, 2023

This week, we’re joined by English Heritage properties historian Andrew Roberts and curator Cameron Moffet to explore the story of Wroxeter Roman city in Shropshire.

Though a small village today, Wroxeter was once the fourth largest town in Roman Britain, when it was known as Viriconium. It was almost the same size as Pompeii in Italy and its true size can best be judged by the scale of the surviving defences and ramparts. Discover how the city grew out of a legionary fortress, what life would have been like for its residents and how we’re sharing its story in new ways with visitors today.

To find out more or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/wroxeter.

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Episode 215 - Natural history at home: scientific collecting at Audley End in the Victorian era May 18, 2023

This week, we’re joined by English Heritage’s curator of collections and interiors Dr Peter Moore and Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences archivist Sandra Jane Freshney to reveal how Audley End House in Essex became home to a diverse collection of natural history specimens and curiosities dating back to the 19th century.

Discover the story of amateur scientific collectors Richard and Jane Neville, how and where they obtained their specimens and the objects from their collection that visitors to Audley End can see during a visit today.

To find out more or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/audleyend.

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Episode 214 - Richborough Roman Fort: gateway to Britannia May 11, 2023

From a military base to a thriving port town and back again, Richborough Roman Fort in Kent is a hugely significant Roman site in Britain, often referred to as the ‘gateway to Britannia’.

As work concludes on a major project to share its stories with visitors in new and innovative ways, we’re joined by senior properties historian Paul Pattison and curator of collections and interiors Kathryn Bedford to discuss the fort’s history, and the exciting new additions that today’s visitors can expect to find.

To find out more or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/richborough.

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Episode 213 - Making a mark: the historic graffiti at our sites May 04, 2023

This week we’re taking a look at how people literally left their mark on history through graffiti. Although we tend to think of graffiti as relatively modern phenomenon, the impulse to scratch, scrawl and draw on walls and buildings is nothing new — and there are plenty of examples at English Heritage sites.

Joining us to reveal more are English Heritage’s senior curator Kevin Booth and Emma Bryning, who is studying our historic graffiti as part of her PHD at the University of York.

To discover the story of the remarkable graffiti left by conscientious objectors at Richmond Castle, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/richmond-castle/richmond-graffiti.

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Episode 212 - Crowning glory: a history of coronations Apr 27, 2023

As the nation celebrates King Charles III’s coronation, we’re joined by English Heritage’s head historic properties curator Jeremy Ashbee and senior properties historian Steven Brindle to look back at the long and colourful history of royal coronations.

Discover who was the first English monarch to be formally crowned, how the ceremony, regalia and anthems have changed over time, and the previous coronations where things didn’t quite go according to plan.

To learn more about our kings and queens through history, please go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/inspire-me/monarchy.

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Episode 211 - Warkworth Castle: stories in stone Apr 20, 2023

This week we're focusing our attention on Warkworth Castle — once the favoured residence of the powerful Earls of Northumberland — to discover the fascinating history of this ruined medieval fortress and a project to share its stories in new and exciting ways with today's visitors.

Joining us in the studio to explain more are English Heritage properties historian Dr Will Wyeth and senior interpretation manager Joe Savage.

To discover more or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/warkworth.

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Episode 210 - Ask the experts: everything you want to know about the Georgians Apr 13, 2023

We’re joined in the studio by Senior Properties Historian Dr Amy Boyington to answer your questions about the Georgians. Famed for its fashions, grand houses and Industrial Revolution, this is a chapter of English history that many of us will be familiar with through Jane Austen novels, their TV and film adaptations, and, more recently, the Netflix series Bridgerton.

Join us to discover the difference between the Georgian and Regency period, what was on the menu, where the era-defining fashion for powdered wigs came from and much more.

To learn more about life in Georgian England, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/learn/story-of-england/georgians

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Episode 209 - Cartimandua And Boudica: Iron Age Queens Apr 06, 2023

This week, we’re at a temporal and cultural crossroads in the early story of the British Isles. It’s the Iron Age – a time when the political landscape of the British Isles was complex and fragmented, with competing and collaborating groups ruling different regions. But their way of life was under threat from a powerful empire from the south: The Romans. We’re joined by English Heritage Properties Historian Dr Andrew Roberts and the Curator of the European Iron Age collections at the British Museum Dr Julia Farley to discuss how two native queens responded in very different ways to full-scale Roman invasion, their fates, and, of course, their historic legacies. To learn more about Cartimandua, Queen of the Brigantes, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/learn/histories/women-in-history/cartimandua

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Episode 208 - Illuminating Lindisfarne Priory Mar 30, 2023

This week we’re joined by Collections Curator Susan Harrison, Senior Properties Historian Dr Steven Brindle and Interpretation Manager Ruth Haycock to discuss a new project to bring the story of Lindisfarne Priory on Holy Island in Northumberland to life.

Learn about the monks who lived here, the cult of St Cuthbert, the famous Lindisfarne Gospels, the vicious Viking raid of AD 793 and the new displays, artefacts and experiences that you can discover during a visit.

To discover more or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/lindisfarne

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Episode 207 - Jane Whorwood: Royalist Spy Mar 23, 2023

Today, we’re shining a light on the clandestine machinations of high-ranking spy Jane Whorwood, who worked for King Charles I during the English Civil War. Her story is one of mystery, intrigue, coded letters, codenames, ambiguous and strained relations, high stakes, high drama and personal disappointment.

Joining us to steer us through her life and legacy is our special guest contributor Nadine Akkerman, who is Professor of Early Modern Literature and Culture at Leiden University in the Netherlands.

To read more about Jane Whorwood’s life, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/carisbrooke-castle/history/jane-whorwood

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Episode 206 - Launceston Castle and the whale Mar 16, 2023

This week, we reveal the colourful history of Launceston Castle. This site has served as the administrative headquarters for the Duchy of Cornwall, a courthouse, a prison, a pleasure garden and a Second World War hospital. The castle is also home to an intriguing collection of artefacts discovered during site excavations, including a near-complete whale vertebra measuring more than half-a-metre across.

Joining us to pick up the story are Curator of Collections Ian Leins and Head of Historic Properties for Cornwall and Devon Georgia Butters.

To discover more about Launceston Castle or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/launceston

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Episode 205 - Celebrating the great and good of women's history Mar 09, 2023

Women's history is often lost to the ages, obscured or even unexplored. But there are numerous examples of women from the past who have played a pivotal role in shaping England and who are linked to sites that are now in the care of English Heritage.

Joining us to discuss some of these stories, and to explore why it's important to celebrate the achievements of women in the past, are Senior Properties Historian for English Heritage Dr Amy Boyington and British art historian Dr Janina Ramirez.

To discover more stories of inspiring women throughout English history, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/learn/histories/women-in-history

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Episode 204 - Building a legacy: the life and designs of Sir Christopher Wren Mar 02, 2023

This week, we’re joined by Senior Properties Historian Steven Brindle to discuss the life and legacy of Britain’s most famous architect, Sir Christopher Wren, as we approach the 300th anniversary of his death.

We discuss how he discovered his talent for design, his commission to create St Paul’s Cathedral and a possible link to Stonehenge in Wiltshire.

To discover the story of Christopher Wren’s blue plaque at his former London home, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/blue-plaques/christopher-wren

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Episode 203 - An ancient landscape: Thornborough Henges Feb 23, 2023

This week, we’re talking about one of the oldest and most important Neolithic sites in Britain, which has recently come into English Heritage’s care. Thornborough Henges comprises three circular earthworks that dot the landscape about seven miles north of the cathedral city of Ripon in North Yorkshire.

We’re joined by former Senior Properties Historian Dr Susan Greaney and Senior Interpretation Manager Joe Savage to reveal the history of these henges, their significance and how their story will be told to future visitors.

To learn more about English Heritage’s prehistoric sites or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/learn/histories/prehistoric-monuments

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Episode 202 - Roman reverence at the Temple of Mithras Feb 16, 2023

One of 16 forts along Hadrian’s Wall, Carrawburgh Roman Fort is also home to the Temple of Mithras, which was built to worship a Persian god. But who was Mithras, what was Mithraism and why was the temple built here, in northern England?

Joining us to reveal all are Senior Properties Historian Paul Pattison and Curator of Hadrian’s Wall and the North East Dr Frances McIntosh.

To learn more about Roman life along Hadrian’s Wall or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/hadrianswall

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Episode 201 - Exploring the history of Neolithic pottery at Stonehenge Feb 09, 2023

This week, we’re joined by two ancient pottery technology specialists – father and daughter team Graham Taylor and Sarah Lord – and Stonehenge Interpretation Manager Melanie Coussens to explore potted history at our most famous Neolithic site.

Discover the role of eating and drinking vessels in prehistoric daily life, where they’ve been found in the landscape, what they were made of and how replicas of them made today are helping visitors get closer to the ancient past.

To learn more about prehistoric life at Stonehenge or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/stonehenge

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Episode 200 - Little wonders: six hidden historic gems to visit in 2023 Feb 02, 2023

This week, we’re making our own little piece of history as we reach episode 200 of the English Heritage Podcast.

To celebrate, we’re joined by English Heritage’s Chief Executive Kate Mavor and Head of Learning and Interpretation Dr Dominique Bouchard to discuss six amazing but little-known sites to visit in 2023, which have all benefitted from a major project to re-tell their stories in new and exciting ways.

To plan a visit to any of our sites, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit

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Episode 199 - Lady Anne Clifford and the fight for five castles Jan 26, 2023

We’re joined by Senior Properties Historian Steven Brindle and historian Karen Hearn to discuss the story of Lady Anne Clifford (1590–1676).

As High Sheriff of Westmorland and the last member of one of England’s great medieval dynasties, she became something of a legend in her own lifetime and has remained a celebrated figure in the history of northern England ever since. We’ll reveal how, after fighting a 40-year battle for her right to inherit her father’s estates, she devoted herself to restoring and enhancing the castles and churches on her lands.

To read more about Lady Anne Clifford’s life, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/learn/histories/women-in-history/anne-clifford

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Episode 198 - Osborne and Victorian politics, diplomacy and Empire Jan 19, 2023

This week we’re returning to Osborne, Queen Victoria’s home on the Isle of Wight. With its sandy beach and beautiful gardens, it’s often been depicted as something of a holiday home for Victoria and her family. But, as we’ll discover, this impressive island retreat was also a real political powerhouse.

Joining us to explain more are English Heritage’s Properties Historians’ Team Leader Dr Andrew Hann and Dr Lee Butcher, who researched Osborne’s place as a global diplomatic hub as part of his PhD studies.

To discover more about Osborne or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/osborne

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Episode 197 - Ask the experts: everything you want to know about the Tudors Jan 12, 2023

This week, we’re joined in the studio by Senior Properties Historian Dr Amy Boyington and Properties Curator Roy Porter to answer all your questions about the Tudors.

Discover what Henry VIII’s relationship was like with his father, if Jane Seymour was the favourite of his six wives and whether he bonded with his own children. Plus, we’ll reveal what treats you might have found at a Tudor feast, what sports the Tudors liked to play and which Tudor monarch might be considered the greatest of them all.

To learn more about life in Tudor England, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/learn/story-of-england/tudors

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Episode 196 - The remarkable life and legacy of naturalist and explorer Alfred Russel Wallace Jan 05, 2023

This month marks the 200th anniversary of the birth of an English biologist, naturalist and explorer who helped develop the theory of evolution in the middle of the 19th century. No, we’re not talking about Charles Darwin, but rather his contemporary Alfred Russel Wallace.

Joining us to talk about Wallace’s life, his blue plaque and the role he played in the development of evolutionary theory, is Senior Historian for the blue plaques scheme, Howard Spencer, and Head Gardener at Home of Charles Darwin – Down House, Antony O’Rourke.

To learn more about our blue plaques scheme, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/blue-plaques To plan a visit to Down House, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/downhouse

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Episode 195 - Winter warmers: what our ancestors ate at the coldest time of year Dec 29, 2022

We’re joined by English Heritage’s Senior Gardens Advisor Dr Michael Klemperer and historian and author Emma Kay to embark on a culinary odyssey from prehistory to Victorian times and reveal what our ancestors ate during the cold months of winter.

Discover how Neolithic hunter gatherers sustained themselves, what the Romans did for our diet and the tasty treats you might have found on the table of a Tudor king.

To see a timeline of food in Britain, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/stonehenge/history-and-stories/history/food-and-feasting-at-stonehenge/food-timeline

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Episode 194 - From St Nicholas to Scrooge: exploring Victorian Christmas traditions Dec 22, 2022

This week, we’re taking a very festive look back at the Christmas traditions that started in the Victorian period and are still with us today. We'll also examine the role that Charles Dickens played in shaping Christmas as we know it – and find out how the man himself celebrated the festive season with his family.

Joining us are Properties Historians’ Team Leader, Dr Andrew Hann, and Director of the Dickens Museum in London, Dr Cindy Sughrue.

To learn more about the Victorian origins of some of today’s Christmas traditions, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/christmas/victorian-christmas-traditions

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Episode 193 - Celebrating Saturnalia: the history and traditions of the Roman midwinter festival Dec 15, 2022

As Christmas festivities get into full swing, we’re delving into the history of the Roman midwinter festival Saturnalia to discover what it was, how it was observed and its role in influencing today’s traditions.

Guiding us through the history of this ancient pagan celebration is Curator for Hadrian’s Wall and the North East region, Dr Frances McIntosh.

To find out more about the history of Christmas, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/christmas/the-history-of-christmas

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Episode 192 - Cobbler, tailor, candlestick maker: the role of servants at our medieval monasteries Dec 08, 2022

When you visit the ruins of abbeys and priories today, it can be hard to imagine that these places were once teeming with people – and not just monks and nuns, with an army of workers employed to keep them running smoothly.

We’re joined by Senior Properties Historian Dr Michael Carter to look back at working life at England’s medieval monasteries and discuss the role and importance of servants in their stories.

To find out more about our abbeys and priories, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/learn/histories/monasteries-and-abbeys

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Episode 191 - Jewel Tower: the building in the background Dec 01, 2022

Built around 1365 to house Edward III’s treasures and known as the ‘King’s Privy Wardrobe’, the Jewel Tower has a fascinating history stretching back over 650 years.

We’re joined by Head Curator Dr Jeremy Ashbee to discover the rich history of this intriguing building in the heart of Westminster that few people have heard of – but have almost certainly seen on TV.

To find out more about the Jewel Tower or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/jewel-tower

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Episode 190 - The Anglo-Irish Treaty and the founding of the Irish Free State Nov 24, 2022

On the centenary of the founding of the Irish Free State, we’re joined by English Heritage blue plaques historian Howard Spencer and senior lecturer in modern history at the University of Sheffield, Dr Caoimhe Nic Dháibhéid, to discover how it came to exist, who the key players were and how the story of its creation still resonates today.

To find out more about our London blue plaques, including those relating to the story of the Irish Free State, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/blue-plaques

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Episode 189 - From stage to silver screen: the life and career of Charlie Chaplin Nov 17, 2022

Charlie Chaplin was one of the greatest stars of early cinema, as well as a pioneer behind the camera. But less well known is the story of his impoverished upbringing in London.

We’re joined by historian Howard Spencer to discuss his journey from grim workhouses to Hollywood stardom, and the blue plaque that commemorates his time at 15 Glenshaw Mansions in Lambeth, where he lived with his brother Sydney from 1908–10 before departing for America.

To find out more about Charlie Chaplin’s blue plaque, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/blue-plaques/charlie-chaplin

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Episode 188 - Remembering the fallen at London’s most poignant war memorials Nov 10, 2022

As the nation honours members of the armed forces who died in the line of duty on Remembrance Day on 11 November, we’re joined by Head Properties Curator Dr Jeremy Ashbee and historic building specialist Dr Roger Bowdler to reveal the stories of six of London’s finest war memorials that are cared for by English Heritage. Together, all six memorials reflect the impact of the Great War, while their fascinating stories reveal different approaches to commemorating the dead.

To discover more about the story of the war memorials in our care, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/london-statues-and-monuments/london-wwi-memorials

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Episode 187 - The real story of Bonfire Night and Rushton Triangular Lodge Nov 03, 2022

Today, we’re joined by properties historian Dr Andrew Roberts and historian Dr Elizabeth Norton to take a look at the one of the people behind the Gunpowder Plot and his family home.

His name was Francis Tresham and the property was Rushton Triangular Lodge in Northamptonshire. Join us to learn about Tresham’s role in the Gunpowder Plot, what Rushton Triangular Lodge tells us about religious persecution and Catholic resistance, and why we continue to mark Bonfire Night on 5 November.

To discover more about the story of bonfire night, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/inspire-me/real-story-of-bonfire-night

To find out more about Rushton Triangular Lodge or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/rushton-triangular-lodge

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Episode 186 - Ask the experts: everything you want to know about England's country houses Oct 27, 2022

This week, we’re joined by Senior Properties Historian Amy Boyington to answer all the questions we received about England’s grand country houses from English Heritage Members and followers on our social media accounts.

Discover what the difference is between a house, hall, manor, palace, and stately home, what working life was like for the staff and how accurate the depictions in series such as Bridgerton and Downton Abbey really are.

To find out more about our historic houses, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/group-visits/inspiring-itineraries/historic-houses

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Episode 185 - Feasts through history: a royal reception at Gainsborough Old Hall Oct 20, 2022

For the third and final course of our mini-series on feasts enjoyed at English Heritage sites through the ages, we’re joined by Senior Properties Historian Dr Nick Holder and Senior Curator Kevin Booth to look back at the feasting and food preparation that took place at one of England’s biggest and best-preserved medieval manor houses: Gainsborough Old Hall. Discover who built the hall, who worked in its kitchens and the kings who came to dine here.

To find out more or plan a visit to Gainsborough Old Hall, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/gainsborough-old-hall.

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Episode 184 - Bram Stoker’s Dracula, Whitby Abbey and the Victorian Gothic Oct 13, 2022

This week, we’re joined by English Heritage Senior Properties Historian Dr Michael Carter and Dr Mary Going, a Research Associate at the University of Sheffield, to discuss how the dramatic ruins of Whitby Abbey in North Yorkshire played their part in inspiring Bram Stoker’s Gothic novel Dracula.

Discover what brought Stoker to the abbey, how the author developed his famous story and the Guinness World Record attempt inspired by the 125th anniversary of the publication of the book.

To find out more about Whitby Abbey and Dracula, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/whitby-abbey/history-and-stories/dracula

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Episode 183 - Revenants and Remains: using the dead to bring medieval monasteries back to life Oct 06, 2022

As the autumn nights draw in and our thoughts turn to chilling tales of death, darkness and the afterlife, we’re joined by Senior Properties Historian Dr Michael Carter to discuss historical beliefs about the supernatural and commemoration, and their significance to monastic sites in English Heritage's care.

Learn about ghost-story-loving monks, the Gothic imagination and a new series of free events that will use the dead to bring the past vividly back to life for today’s visitors.

To find out more or book one of the upcoming Revenants and Remains events, go to www.revenantsandremains.mmu.ac.uk

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Episode 182 - Circles of Stone: Stonehenge and Prehistoric Japan Sep 29, 2022

Join us for a sneak preview of the latest special exhibition at Stonehenge, which reveals the surprising parallels between our most famous Neolithic monument and the stone circles created in Japan at Isedotai and Ōyu during the same period.

Talking us through the similarities – and differences – are Interpretation Manager Melanie Coussens and Dr Simon Kaner, the executive director of the Sainsbury Institute for the Study of Japanese Arts and Cultures. Plus, we reveal the must-see exhibits, the colourful characters that have been created to guide visitors and what the objects in the exhibition tell us about prehistoric life at Stonehenge.

To find out more or plan your visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/stonehenge

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Episode 181 - The surprising history of Wellington Arch Sep 22, 2022

This week, we’re joined by Senior Properties Historian Steven Brindle to discuss the story of one of London’s more usual landmarks – the Wellington Arch.

Discover why it was built, how it came to be in one of the capital’s most coveted locations and why it’s giant quadriga sculpture courted controversy. We’ll also reveal the many ways it has been used over the last 200 years and what you can expect to find during a visit today.

To find out more about the Wellington Arch or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/wellington-arch

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Episode 180 - 1066 and all that: the rise, reign and fall of Harold Godwinson Sep 08, 2022

As we prepare to recreate the events of the Battle of Hastings, we’re profiling the man who lost on that battlefield in 1066. A man who (if you believe a certain tapestry) was killed by an arrow to the eye. Here to talk about the rise, reign and fall of Harold Godwinson is historian, author and expert on the middle ages, Dr Marc Morris.

Plus, we’re joined by English Heritage Event Manager Diana Evans to find out what you can expect to see at this year’s re-enactment.

To plan a visit to 1066 Battle of Hastings, Abbey and Battlefield, or book your place at this year’s event, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/battle

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Episode 179 - Bringing in the harvest at Brodsworth Hall and Leigh Court Barn Sep 01, 2022

As summer turns to autumn and harvest time approaches, we’re joined by curator of collections and interiors Eleanor Matthews and properties curator Winn Scutt to learn about the agricultural history of two very different properties – Brodsworth Hall in South Yorkshire and Leigh Court Barn in Worcestershire. Join us to discover how they were farmed, what working life at both sites was like and what would have been happening here during harvest time.

To discover more about Brodsworth Hall or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/brodsworth.

To discover more about Leigh Court Barn or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/leigh-court-barn.

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Episode 178 - Restormel Castle and the Duchy of Cornwall Aug 25, 2022

This week, we’re joined by Head Properties Curator Dr Jeremy Ashbee, to explore the history of Restormel Castle in Cornwall.

Standing in ruins surrounded by beautiful countryside in a valley with views down to the River Fowey, Restormel is one of the most remarkable castles in Britain. We discuss who built it, how it was used, its royal visitors and its links with the Duchy of Cornwall.

To discover more about Restormel Castle or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/restormel

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Episode 177 - Ask the experts: everything you want to know about the Romans Aug 18, 2022

This week, we’re joined by Properties Historian, Dr Andrew Roberts, and Curator of Hadrian's Wall, Dr Frances McIntosh, to answer all of your questions about the Romans. Discover why the Romans never conquered all the British Isles, how long it took to get a letter to Rome from Hadrian’s Wall, whether Romans ever really used urine as a mouthwash and much more!

To discover more about life in Roman Britain, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/learn/story-of-england/romans

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Episode 176 - Feasts through history: fine dining at Stokesay Castle Aug 11, 2022

For the second helping in our series about historic food and feasts, we’re joined by Curator of Collections and Interiors Cameron Moffett, and Senior Properties Curator Louise Bartlett, to discuss a 13th century feast that took place at Stokesay Castle in Shropshire.

We’ll discover who was hosting, their guest of honour, what was on the menu and the politics of the medieval dining table. To discover more about Stokesay Castle or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/stokesaycastle This series is brought to you by Côte at Home, who offer a wide range of luxury chilled meals and French wines, delivered direct to your door, from the kitchens of the Côte Brasserie restaurants.

To get a free bottle of French red or white wine with your first order over £60, go to www.coteathome.co.uk and use the promo code EH-RED or EH-WHITE at checkout.

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Episode 175 - Georgian garden tourists: a potted history of visiting gardens Aug 04, 2022

Visiting gardens became a favourite pursuit of 18th century upper classes. It’s also a passion that many of us enjoy today: visiting historic gardens, admiring carefully crafted landscapes and maybe even picking up a few ideas for our own outdoor spaces. But were the garden tourists of the Georgian era anything like us?

To answer that question and more, we’re joined by English Heritage Landscape Advisor, Emily Parker and PhD researcher, Jemima Hubbertsey.

To discover a selection of English Heritage’s finest historic gardens, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/inspire-me/historic-gardens

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Episode 174 - A history of the Great British seaside resort Jul 28, 2022

Britain’s beaches are a popular day trip destination when the sun is shining, but this wasn’t always the case. Joining us to discuss the origins of the beach holiday, the history of British seaside resorts and how visits to the seaside have changed over the centuries is Dr Allan Brodie, a senior investigator at Historic England and a visiting fellow at Bournemouth University.

To discover a selection of English Heritage’s best historic beach escapes, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/inspire-me/travel-guides/beach-escapes

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Episode 173 - Women in Civil War England: Alice Thornton and Middleham Castle Jul 21, 2022

This week, we’re discussing the story of a 17th century woman who left an amazing literary legacy. Alice Thornton wrote four books, including three autobiographies, which provide a remarkable insight into life during the English Civil Wars.

Joining us to discuss Alice’s story, including her connection to the English Heritage site of Middleham Castle in North Yorkshire, are Senior Lecturer in History at the University of Edinburgh Dr Cordelia Beattie, English Heritage Properties Historian Will Wyeth and Post-Doctoral Researcher Dr Jo Edge.

To discover more about Middleham Castle or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/middlehamcastle

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Episode 172 - A medieval mission: converting Anglo-Saxon England Jul 14, 2022

Today, we’re joined by Senior Properties Historian Michael Carter to discuss the story of Anglo-Saxon England’s conversion to Christianity and the key people behind it. Many of you will have heard of St Augustine, but what about St Hild, Hadrian or Milburga, or even Queen Bertha? Join us to discover the role these medieval missionaries played and the sites you can visit today to find out more.

To discover more about England’s top abbeys or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/inspire-me/travel-guides/top-abbeys

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Episode 171 - Holy water: Rievaulx Abbey and the Rye Valley Jul 07, 2022

This week we’re on the banks of the River Rye in North Yorkshire to discover how its precious water helped to sustain the monks who lived here for just over 400 years. This relationship between the monks and the river – and the ingenious ways they managed the water – is the focus of a new exhibition being hosted at the abbey.

Joining us to explain more are English Heritage Collections Curator Susan Harrison, Ryevitalise Programme Manager for the North York Moors National Park Authority Alexandra Cripps, and Ryevitalise Graduate Niamh Byrne.

To discover more about Rievaulx Abbey or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/rievaulxabbey

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Episode 170 - Curating human remains at St Peter’s Church Jun 30, 2022

Have you ever been to an historic site and wondered about the people who lived there? Or the people who died there? Or maybe even those who are buried there? St Peter's Church at Barton-on-the-Humber in north Lincolnshire is home to a large collection of human bones stored in its ossuary.

Joining us to reveal the story of the church, its ossuary, and the human remains housed here are Senior Curator Kevin Booth and Human Skeletal Biologist at Historic England, Dr Simon Mays.

To discover more about St Peter’s Church or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/st-peters-church-barton-upon-humber

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Episode 169 - White horses and hill figures in England Jun 23, 2022

This week we’re joined by Senior Properties Historian Dr Susan Greaney and Professor Ronald Hutton to investigate the mysterious white horses and giant chalk figures that adorn hillsides across England. Find out who created them, when and why they were created and the stories behind many of England’s most famous hill figures, from the Uffington and Westbury White Horses to the Cerne Abbas Giant and the Long Man of Wilmington.

To discover more about the Uffington White Horse or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/uffington-castle-white-horse-and-dragon-hill

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Episode 168 - Somerset v Stewart: the landmark trial that helped to end slavery Jun 16, 2022

Today we’re joined by English Heritage’s Head of Learning and Interpretation Dr Dominique Bouchard and Properties Historians' Team Leader Dr Andrew Hann to talk about a landmark case presided over by Lord Chief Justice, William Murray, 1st Earl of Mansfield, who lived at Kenwood in north London.

He was also a dissenting voice against slavery. Mansfield's ruling in the Somerset v Stewart case in 1772 paved the way for the abolition of slavery in Britain and beyond.

To discover more about Kenwood or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/kenwood

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Episode 167 - A history of the castle with John Goodall Jun 09, 2022

This week, we’re returning to one of our favourite topics of conversation on the podcast: castles. Joining us to discuss the evolution of Britain’s fortresses, before revealing his top five English Heritage castles, is John Goodall – a historian, the architectural editor of Country Life magazine and author of a new book called The Castle: A History.

To discover more about our castles or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/castles

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Episode 166 - The Edwardian discovery of Coria Jun 02, 2022

This week, we’re joined by Dr Frances McIntosh to discuss the story of the Edwardian archaeologists who discovered Corbridge Roman Town and the new exhibition that has been created to celebrate their work.

Corbridge – or Coria to use its original name – was a major settlement two-and-a-half miles south of Hadrian’s Wall in the north-east of England, and the ground-breaking excavations carried out here more than a hundred years ago uncovered one of the most important Roman collections in Britain.

To discover more about Corbridge Roman Town or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/corbridge

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Episode 165 - Making Marble Hill: the story of Henrietta Howard and her Georgian villa May 26, 2022

This week, we’re marking a new chapter in the story of Marble Hill, an eye-catching early Georgian villa set in 66 acres of parkland near the River Thames in Twickenham, south-west London. As it reopens following an 8-million-pound project to revive the house and grounds, we explore the history of this riverside Palladian home, its builder Henrietta Howard, its collections and its garden.

Joining us to pick up the story are Senior Properties Historian Dr Megan Leyland, Curator of Collections and Interiors Dr Tessa Kilgarriff and Landscape Advisor Emily Parker.

To discover more about Marble Hill or plan a visit, go to https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/marblehill

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Episode 164 - Hadrian's Wall part 4: legacy May 19, 2022

We’re back for the final instalment of our four-part mini-series on the story of Hadrian’s Wall on its 1,900th anniversary. From the end of Roman control in Britain to the medieval period and the rediscovery of the wall by early archaeologists, we’re looking at the legacy of Hadrian’s Wall. We also consider how the remains of the Wall and its forts are being conserved for future generations.

Joining us to guide us on this journey back to the present day are Properties Historian Dr Andrew Roberts and Curator of Hadrian’s Wall Dr Frances McIntosh.

To discover more about Hadrian’s Wall or to plan a visit, go to https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/hadrianswall

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Episode 163 - Feasts through history: dining and reclining at Lullingstone Roman Villa May 12, 2022

The first in a three-part mini-series on feasts that were enjoyed at English Heritage sites through the ages. To get us started, we’re headed back in time to visit Lullingstone Roman Villa in Kent. Giving us a flavour of what a Roman feast at Lullingstone would have looked (and tasted) like is Curator of Collections and Interiors Dr Kathryn Bedford.

This series is brought to you by Côte at Home, who offer a wide range of luxury chilled meals and French wines, delivered direct to your door, from the kitchens of the Côte Brasserie restaurants. To get a free bottle of French red or white wine with your first order over £60, go to www.coteathome.co.uk and use the promo code EH-RED or EH-WHITE at checkout.

To learn more about Lullingstone Roman Villa or to plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/lullingstone

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Episode 162 - Wars of the Roses part 2: Richard III May 05, 2022

This week, we’re concluding our two-part mini-series on the Wars of the Roses as we chart Richard III’s role in the final phases of the conflicts. He remains one of the most controversial kings in English history – accused of murdering his nephews to protect his throne. But who was the real Richard III?

We’re joined by Curator of Collections & Interiors, Dickon Whitewood to find out.

To discover more about Richard III’s childhood home, Middleham Castle, or to plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/middleham-castle

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Episode 161 - Hadrian’s Wall part 3: evolution and end Apr 28, 2022

Today, we’re back on the northern frontier of the Roman Empire for the third instalment of our Hadrian’s Wall mini-series. Discover what happened to the Wall following the death of Emperor Hadrian in AD 138 and how life along it evolved until the end of Roman rule in Britain.

Joining us to pick up the story are Properties Historian Dr Andrew Roberts and curator of Hadrian’s Wall and the North East region Dr Frances McIntosh.

To discover more about Hadrian’s Wall or to plan a visit, go to https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/hadrianswall

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Episode 160 - Behind the scenes of Netflix’s Bridgerton at Ranger’s House Apr 21, 2022

Ranger’s House is an elegant Georgian villa on the boundary of Greenwich Park and Blackheath, which houses The Wernher Collection, a world-class art collection amassed by the 19th-century businessman, Sir Julius Wernher. However, in more recent times, its façade has become famous as the star of Netflix period drama Bridgerton.

We’re joined by Senior Properties Historian Dr Megan Leyland and Head of Commercial Development Kingston Myles to learn about the history of Ranger’s House and how it was reinvented on-screen as Bridgerton House.

To discover more about Ranger’s House or to plan a visit, go to https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/rangershouse

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Episode 159 - King Edmund: Christian martyr, patron saint Apr 14, 2022

Edmund was King of East Anglia in the 9th century before becoming England’s original patron saint. Today, very little is known about his life, but the legends of his grisly death developed into a cult centred on his shrine at Bury St Edmunds Abbey, which was founded by King Cnut in 1020. As the cult grew, so did the abbey, which became one of the largest monastic sites in the country.

We’re joined by Senior Properties Historian Dr Steven Brindle and Interpretation Manager Jessica Freeland to learn about Edmund’s reign, death and canonisation, along with the plans to share his story with visitors to the abbey today.

To discover more about Bury St Edmunds Abbey or to plan a visit, go to https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/bury-st-edmunds-abbey

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Episode 158 - Ask the experts: Everything you want to know about the Victorians Apr 07, 2022

This week, we’re joined by Senior Properties Historian Dr Steven Brindle to answer all of your questions about the Victorian period.

Discover what the Victorians liked to eat and drink, their attitudes to child labour, how they expressed themselves through clothing, art and architecture, and Queen Victoria’s lifestyle at Osborne.

To discover more about Osborne or to plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/osborne

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Episode 157 - A new perspective on the history of Clifford's Tower Mar 31, 2022

Standing tall in the centre of historic York for almost 800 years, Clifford’s Tower has undergone a transformation to conserve its walls and create a multi-sensory celebration of its stories.

Joining us to explain more are Head Properties Curator Dr Jeremy Ashbee, Senior National Project Manager Rachael Baldwin and Interpretation Manager Ruth Haycock.

To discover more about Clifford’s Tower or to plan a visit to see it for yourself, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/cliffords

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Episode 156 - Out at Ranger’s House: Exploring LGBTQ+ history in the Wernher Collection Mar 24, 2022

A new tour launching this summer explores the LGBTQ+ history behind a number of objects in the Wernher Collection at Ranger’s House in Blackheath, London.

We’re joined by Senior Interpretation Manager Nick Collinson, Properties Historian Andrew Roberts and Young Producer Katie Burke to find out how and why they created the tour, and to reveal the LGBTQ+ history connected to a selection of the objects included.

To discover more about Ranger’s House or to plan a visit to take the tour, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/rangershouse

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Episode 155 - The country house at war: Military requisitioning 1939-45 Mar 17, 2022

The Second World War saw a number of England’s country houses requisitioned by the military to play their part in the war effort. We’re joined by Curator of Collections and Interiors Eleanor Matthews, Properties Historians' Team Leader Dr Andrew Hann and Collections Manager David Hanks to discuss how Brodsworth Hall in South Yorkshire, Wrest Park in Bedfordshire and Belsay Hall in Northumberland were reinvented as a barracks, offices and training facilities as the war raged.

To discover more about Brodsworth Hall, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/brodsworth

To discover more about Wrest Park, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/wrest

To discover more about Belsay Hall, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/belsay

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Episode 154 - Hadrian's Wall part 2: Life at Housesteads Roman Fort Mar 10, 2022

This week, we’re continuing our four-part mini-series on Hadrian’s Wall by looking at what life was like for the soldiers stationed at Housesteads Roman Fort in Northumberland. Lying half-way along the wall near Hexham in Northumberland, Housesteads is Britain’s most complete example of a Roman fort. It was built within 10 years of the wall’s initial construction, and for nearly three centuries was able to house 800 infantrymen.

Joining us for a march through the history of Housesteads are Senior Properties Historian Paul Pattison and Curator for Hadrian's Wall Dr Frances McIntosh.

To discover more or plan a visit to Housesteads Roman Fort, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/housesteads

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Episode 153 - National treasures: England’s groundbreaking female archaeologists Mar 03, 2022

Since the beginnings of modern archaeology in the early 20th century, women have made significant contributions to preserving and understanding our cultural heritage. However, their work has often been neglected. Many of them faced institutional sexism, worked in areas that were undervalued, or had their work attributed to male colleagues.

We’re joined by Senior Properties Historian Dr Susan Greaney and Curator Dr Frances McIntosh to take a look at the work of a number of pioneering female archaeologists who worked on sites now cared for by English Heritage, and consider how their investigations have enriched our understanding of the past.

To discover more about the archaeologists discussed in this episode, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/learn/histories/women-in-history/six-groundbreaking-female-archaeologists

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Episode 152 - The Wars of the Roses part 1: The battles begin Feb 24, 2022

Less than 100 years after the Black Death, England was again uprooted by dramatic upheaval. The Wars of the Roses, fought between the two powerful houses of York and Lancaster, pitted families against each other. The series of conflicts – which took place between 1455 and 1485 – spanned multiple different reigns, involved numerous foreign kingdoms, and heralded changes in English politics, social order and battlefield technology.

In this first episode of our two-part series, we’re joined by Curator of Collections and Interiors Dickon Whitewood to discuss what the Wars of the Roses were, how they started and the early battles that ended with Yorkist triumph.

To discover more about medieval warfare, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/learn/story-of-england/medieval/war

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Episode 151 - The extraordinary life and times of Eleanor of Aquitaine Feb 17, 2022

We’re joined by Senior Properties Historian Dr Steven Brindle and Professor Lindy Grant from the University of Reading to look back at the remarkable life of Eleanor of Aquitaine.

One of 12th century Europe’s richest and most powerful women, she became Queen of France as the wife of King Louis VII and then Queen of England as the wife of Henry II. Discover the story of her remarkable rise to power, her imprisonment following a plot to remove her second husband as king and her return to power as queen dowager.

To discover more about Eleanor of Aquitaine’s life, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/learn/histories/women-in-history/eleanor-aquitaine

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Episode 150 - Solving the mystery of Audley End's Indigenous American collections Feb 10, 2022

A quest to discover the origins of several mysterious Indigenous American objects in the collection at Audley End House led Curator of Collections and Interiors Peter Moore on a fact-finding mission across the Atlantic.

We’re joined by Peter and Curator of The Seneca Art & Culture Centre Michael Galban to reveal what they learned about the objects, how these came to be at Audley End and a surprising connection between the collections at Audley End House and the Seneca Art & Culture Centre.

To arrange a visit to Audley End House and Gardens to see its collections, including the indigenous American objects discussed in this episode, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/audley

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Episode 149 - Heritage crime watch: how we’re protecting our historic treasures Feb 03, 2022

Ten years after the Alliance to Reduce Crime against Heritage (ARCH) was established, we’re joined in the studio by Historic England’s Head of Heritage Crime Strategy, Mark Harrison, to learn about the different kinds of heritage crime, its impact on our historic sites and what is being done to tackle it.

Plus, we speak to Property Curator Win Scutt to reveal what has been happening at English Heritage to stop illegal metal detecting and catch criminals in the act.

To learn more about ARCH, go to www.historicengland.org.uk/advice/caring-for-heritage/heritage-crime/prevent/get-involved

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Episode 148 - Ask the experts: Everything you want to know about the Neolithic period Jan 27, 2022

This week, we’re joined by Senior Properties Historian Dr Susan Greaney and Stonehenge Curator Heather Sebire to answer all of your questions about the Neolithic period.

Discover what Neolithic people ate, how they navigated their way across the British Isles and if they ever got married. Plus, learn the secrets of our most famous Neolithic monument, Stonehenge.

To learn more about the history of Stonehenge, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/stonehenge

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Episode 147 - Hadrian’s Wall part 1: The man behind the wall Jan 20, 2022

To mark the 1,900th anniversary of the building of Hadrian’s Wall, we’re starting a new, four-part podcast series, piecing together the story of Britain’s most famous relic of Roman rule. In this first episode, we’re joined by Properties Historian Dr Andrew Roberts to take a look at the story of Hadrian himself, ahead of the former emperor’s birthday on 24 January.

Discover the story of his rise to become the Roman ruler, why he ordered the building of the wall along the northern frontier of the empire, and his vision for it.

To learn more about Hadrian’s Wall and the stories of the sites we care for along it, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/hadrians-wall

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Episode 146 - 1066 and all that: What happened after the Battle of Hastings? Jan 13, 2022

Following on from episode 130, in which we discussed the events and people behind the Battle of Hastings, we’re now shifting our attention to the turbulent years that followed. We often think of 1066 as a big turning point in English history, but it actually took another six years for the Norman Conquest to take hold.

Joining us to talk through William the Conqueror’s coronation and the measures he took to assert his authority are Senior Properties Curator Roy Porter and Curator of Collections and Interiors for the South East, Kathryn Bedford.

To learn more about the Norman Conquest, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/learn/histories/1066-and-the-norman-conquest

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Episode 145 - Celebrating England’s post-Christmas winter traditions Jan 06, 2022

With Christmas now behind us, we’re joined by Professor of History at the University of Bristol, Ronald Hutton, to look at the origins of some of England’s other winter traditions.

Discover the origins of Plough Monday, Wassailing, Mummers’ plays, Valentine’s Day, Shrove Tuesday and Kissing Friday.

For more inspiration for things to do with English Heritage in January, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/top-5-things-to-do-in-january/

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Episode 144 - Life on ice: Sir Ernest Shackleton and the blue plaque polar explorers Dec 30, 2021

On the centenary of the death of Antarctic explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton, we’re joined by senior historian Howard Spencer to discuss Shackleton’s adventures and the blue plaque that commemorates his achievements at his former London home. We also discuss the exploits of five other polar explorers honoured by blue plaques for their commitments to mapping the globe and pushing the limits of human endurance.

To learn more about English Heritage’s blue plaque scheme, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/blue-plaques

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Episode 143 - Christmas entertaining at English Heritage’s properties Dec 23, 2021

This week we’re joined by Properties Historians Team Leader, Dr Andrew Hann, to unwrap the history of Christmas party season at four of our English Heritage sites.

Discover how their rich and powerful former residents celebrated, what was on the menu at festive feasts, and how the guests were entertained.

To learn more about the history of Christmas, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/christmas/the-history-of-christmas

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Episode 142 - Holy warriors: The secrets of the Knights Templar Dec 16, 2021

This week we're joined by Senior Properties Historian Dr Steven Brindle to discuss the history of The Order of the Knights Templar.

Discover how they were established, their role in the crusades, the secrets of their military success, and the English Heritage sites linked to them that you can visit today.

For more details about Bristol Temple Church, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/temple-church

For details of Knights Templar Church in Dover, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/knights-templar-church-dover

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Episode 141 - Celebrating the Winter Solstice at Stonehenge Dec 09, 2021

As the days become shorter and darker, we’re joined by Senior Properties Historian, Dr Susan Greaney, and Senior Historic Property Curator for Stonehenge, Heather Sebire, to discover how the winter solstice was marked at Stonehenge thousands of years ago.

For more details about Stonehenge or to plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/stonehenge

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Episode 140 - Burning ambitions: The story of Derwentcote Steel Furnace Dec 02, 2021

Built in the 1720s, Derwentcote is the earliest and most complete steel-making furnace in Britain. We’re joined by Properties Historian Andrew Roberts and Volunteer Manager, Sophie Hearn to learn about the history of the furnace, its place within England’s steel-making history and how its story is being brought back to life for visitors today.

For more details about Derwentcote Steel Furnace or to plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/derwentcote-steel-furnace

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Episode 139 - Thomas, Earl of Lancaster and Dunstanburgh Castle Nov 25, 2021

Dunstanburgh Castle, a huge and jagged ruin on the Northumberland coast, was almost entirely the creation of one man – Thomas, Earl of Lancaster. Little known today, he was immensely wealthy, powerful and controversial. He fell out with rivals, supporters and family, was executed for treason, and nearly made a posthumous saint.

We’re joined by Head Historic Properties Curator Dr Jeremy Ashbee to discover the story of Dunstanburgh and what its landscape and buildings can tell us about Thomas's extraordinary career.

For more details about Dunstanburgh Castle or to plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/dunstanburgh

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Episode 138 - At home with London’s rock and pop stars: introducing the blue plaque supergroup Nov 18, 2021

On the 30th anniversary of the death of Queen frontman Freddy Mercury, we’re joined by English Heritage’s blue plaque historian Howard Spencer to discover the story behind Mercury’s blue plaque in Feltham, West London, along with those commemorating a supergroup of other rock and pop stars at their former residences across the capital. From Mercury to Marley and Lennon to Hendrix, discover the stories of these late greats and the places they called home.

For more details about our blue plaques scheme, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/blue-plaques

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Episode 137 - The history of Poppy Day Nov 10, 2021

As we mark Remembrance Day, we’re joined by historian Dr Fiona Reid and English Heritage audience development manager Rachel Morrison to look back the armistice, remembrance, and how the red poppy became a symbol of those who gave their lives in conflicts since the First World War.

We’ll also find out how and where the commemorative poppies are made today – 100 years since the first poppy appeal – and what’s happening at Marble Hill in London to commemorate its wartime history.

For more details about Marble Hill or to plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/marblehill

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Episode 136 - Who were the Romans of Britannia? Nov 04, 2021

This week we’re getting to know the Romans of Britain, or to use Latin, ‘Britannia’. But who were the Romans living and working in Britain at that time? Where had they come from? And how did their way of life fit in with existing British culture?

Joining us to answer these questions and more are English Heritage Properties Historian, Dr Andrew Roberts and curator, Cameron Moffett.

To learn more about life in Roman Britain, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/learn/story-of-england/romans

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Episode 135 - Medieval medicine, magic and superstition Oct 28, 2021

This week we’re investigating some of the medieval beliefs and practices that existed to keep illness and death at bay in the Middle Ages. At a time when good health was far from guaranteed, discover how many people turned to England’s monasteries as the healthcare providers of the day, while others put their faith in magic, miracles and the supernatural.

Joining us to reveal more are senior properties historian, Dr Michael Carter and Professor Catherine Rider from the University of Exeter’s Department of History.

To watch our video about medieval medicine, go to youtu.be/fuEuaSmDOec

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Episode 134 - The history of windows, and how we’re saving their stories Oct 21, 2021

As English Heritage launches an appeal to repair and restore the 13,000 historic windows at their sites, we’re joined by senior estates manager Nicola Duncan Finn, senior properties historian Steven Brindle and properties curator Kristian Kaminski to find out what is happening and why.

Discover the stories of the windows that witnessed and illuminated some of our most renowned history, from the attempted escape of Charles I and the revolutionary experiments of Charles Darwin to the final days of Queen Victoria. Plus, learn why over one million pounds’ worth of repairs will be needed in the next five years and the traditional techniques and skills required to save them.

To learn more about the historic windows appeal, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/windows.

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Episode 133 - Divine dairies and the history of butter Oct 14, 2021

This week, we're joined by food historian Dr Annie Gray to discover the story of a delicious everyday foodstuff: butter – and some of the historic dairies where it was produced. Learn when it was first produced, when and why it became a staple food and who the biggest butter lovers in English history were. Plus, discover the stories of the butter-producing dairies and farms at Kenwood, Audley End, Wrest Park, Osborne, Brodsworth Hall and Boscobel House.

To watch our video about how to make butter the Victorian way, go to www.youtube.com/watch?v=DV7hop4m0YQ

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Episode 132 - Freedom fighters: the story of Ellen and William Craft Oct 07, 2021

In this episode, we explore the historic journey of two refugees from slavery and campaigners for its abolition, who escaped from America to England. Ellen and William Craft ended up in London – and now, more than 170 years after they arrived, a blue plaque marks their former home in Hammersmith.

Joining us to discuss their journey to England and abolitionist campaigns are English Heritage’s senior historian for blue plaques, Howard Spencer, and Dr Hannah-Rose Murray, a research fellow at the University of Edinburgh, specialising in the history of enslaved people.

To learn more about the Crafts, go to https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/blue-plaques/ellen-and-william-craft/

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Episode 131 - Exploring the legacy of the transatlantic slave trade at Brodsworth Hall and Gardens Sep 30, 2021

This week, we’re discussing how art is being used to explore the link between Brodsworth Hall and the transatlantic slave trade. The property and its gardens near Doncaster in South Yorkshire will be hosting a collection of five sculptures created by artist Carl Gabriel and inspired by the story of Peter Thellusson, a former owner of the estate who made his fortune from goods connected with slave-based production and the slave trade itself.

Joining us to explain more are senior interpretation manager Joe Savage and historian, archivist and researcher John Angus Martin.

To learn more about Brodsworth Hall and Gardens or to plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/brodsworth

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Episode 130 - 1066 and all that: The events and people behind the Battle of Hastings Sep 23, 2021

Today, we’re gearing up for the Battle of Hastings. Or at least, its re-enactment next month by 500 history enthusiasts in the location where this key turning point in English history took place. Of course, many of us know the story, including that unforgettable date: 1066. But what happened in the build-up to the battle, and who had the strongest claim to be king?

Joining us to answer these questions and more are senior properties curator Roy Porter and curator of collections and interiors Dr Kathryn Bedford.

To learn more about the Battle of Hastings and the Norman Conquest, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/learn/histories/1066-and-the-norman-conquest

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Episode 129 - Harvests, hauntings and fiery nights: Exploring our autumn traditions Sep 16, 2021

As the nights draw in and the leaves start to turn, we’re joined by Professor of History at the University of Bristol Ronald Hutton, to discuss some of the traditions that come with autumn. Discover the history behind Bonfire Night and Halloween, along with less well-known events such as Harvest Home and Lammas – and the origins of the word ‘autumn’ itself.

For the best English Heritage gardens to visit during autumn, go to https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/inspire-me/historic-gardens/english-heritage-gardens-in-autumn

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Episode 128 - Uncovering the secrets of Richborough Roman Fort and Amphitheatre Sep 09, 2021

Today, we’re discussing a new archaeological excavation that is hoped to help expand our understanding of Roman occupation in the south-east of England. Richborough Roman Fort in Kent is perhaps one of the most symbolically important Roman sites in Britain, as it marked both the beginning and the end of Roman rule. And given that it witnessed these dramatic events, it seems only fitting that archaeologists will be revisiting the remains of its amphitheatre for clues about Richborough’s past.

Joining us to discuss the excavation and the site’s history are senior properties historian Paul Pattison and senior archaeologist for Historic England Tony Willmott.

To learn more about Richborough Roman Fort and Amphitheatre or to plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/richborough

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Episode 127 - Exploring Darwin’s living laboratory Sep 02, 2021

This week, we’re joined by English Heritage interpretation manager Nadine Langford and landscape advisor Emily Parker to discuss the vital role Charles Darwin’s home in Kent played in helping him to develop his theory of evolution by natural selection. Much of his garden at Down House was used to conduct experiments, which were arguably just as important as his observations on his Beagle voyage.

Discover how Darwin transformed the garden into a living laboratory, the experiments he conducted and how these are being brought to life through a new visitor experience.

To learn more about Down House or to plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/downhouse

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Episode 126 - Hot tubs and hypocausts: Roman bathing in Britain Aug 26, 2021

Today, we’re taking a dip into the history of the most Roman of daily rituals: bathing. This practice of personal care left its mark across a number of English Heritage sites. These include the baths in the forts along Hadrian’s Wall in northern England and the vast bathing complex in the Roman city of Wroxeter in Shropshire.

Joining us to discuss how and why the Romans bathed – and to give us a tour of some of the bathhouses they built to do so – are Properties Historian Dr Andrew Roberts and Collections Curator Cameron Moffett.

To learn more about English Heritage Roman sites or to plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/about-us/our-places/roman-sites

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Episode 125 - Ask the experts: Everything you want to know about England’s monasteries Aug 19, 2021

This week, we’re putting your questions on England’s monasteries to senior properties historian Dr Michael Carter and Janet Burton, Professor of Medieval History at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David.

These remarkable religious buildings were centres for incredible wealth and power throughout much of England's history until Henry VIII began the Dissolution of the Monasteries in 1536. Discover what life was like for the monks and nuns who lived worked and worshipped at them, how they amassed such wealth, what happened to the monks and nuns after they were closed and much more.

To learn more about English Heritage’s monastic sites or to plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/learn/histories/monasteries-and-abbeys

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Episode 124 - A Victorian play palace: Inside Osborne’s Swiss Cottage Aug 12, 2021

We’re joined by curator Michael Hunter to discover the story of Osborne’s Swiss Cottage – a little Alpine-style chalet with its own gardens and museum at Queen Victoria’s palatial former home on the Isle of Wight. This was the royal children’s private world, where they could play at being adults and learn the skills Prince Albert believed would make them better rulers.

To learn more about Osborne and the Swiss Cottage or to plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/osborne

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Episode 123 - A blast from the past: Introducing our historic artillery collection Aug 05, 2021

This week, we have an explosive episode in store as we look into the history of English Heritage’s artillery collection – and how it was used to defend the nation. We’ll also hear about the conservation work being undertaken to ensure these rare guns and cannons survive for future generations to admire.

Providing the expert firepower are senior properties historian Paul Pattison, curator of collections Ian Leins and senior collections conservator Beth Stanley.

To learn more about English Heritage’s cannon and the appeal to save them, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/support-us/our-appeals/save-our-cannons

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Episode 122 - Early Medieval Britain: Illuminating the ‘Dark Ages’ Jul 29, 2021

This week we’re joined by Senior Properties Historian Dr Susan Greaney and Howard Williams, Professor of Archaeology at the University of Chester, to discuss the early medieval period of British history that followed the collapse of Roman state control of lowland Britain and ended with the Norman conquest of 1066.

This was a time of migrations and far-reaching contacts, Christian conversion, kingdom formation and expansion, and Viking raids and settlement. But archaeological evidence tells us so much more about these fascinating centuries. Discover what happened after the Romans left Britain, who replaced them, why this period is often referred to as ‘The Dark Ages’ and why this problematic description is now being phased out.

To learn more about life in early medieval England, go to https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/learn/story-of-england/early-medieval/

To read Howard’s open-access publication Digging into the Dark Ages: Early Medieval Public Archaeologies, visit https://www.archaeopress.com/ArchaeopressShop/Public/displayProductDetail.asp?id=%7BDE9A5B19-7AAD-4FA7-A097-060E0525533D%7D

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Episode 121 - Sporting heroes: Introducing London’s blue plaque Olympians Jul 22, 2021

As the world finally gets to enjoy the Tokyo Olympics, we’re taking a look at some of the British athletes of Olympics past, who have been honoured with blue plaques at their former London homes. Joining us to introduce this diverse array of sporting greats are two historians for the blue plaques scheme, Howard Spencer and Dr Rebecca Preston.

To learn more about the blue plaques scheme, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/blue-plaques

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Episode 120 - Gainsborough Old Hall and the changing lives of a medieval manor Jul 15, 2021

We’re joined by senior curator Kevin Booth and senior properties historian Nick Holder to discover the story of one of England’s best-preserved medieval buildings, its former owners, and its changing uses over the centuries. We also reveal what has been happening behind closed doors to prepare it to be reopened to visitors under English Heritage’s stewardship and what to look out for during a visit.

To learn more about Gainsborough Old Hall or to plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/gainsborough-old-hall

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Episode 119 - Power and dissent: 950 years of history at Richmond Castle Jul 08, 2021

We’re back in the studio with senior properties curator Dr Mark Douglas to mark the 950th anniversary of Richmond Castle in North Yorkshire.

Towering above the river Swale in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, the castle is one of the finest and most complete Norman fortresses in the country, with a history stretching from the Norman Conquest to the First World War.

Listen to discover why it was built, what life was like here through the ages and how it became home to the Richmond Sixteen. To learn more about Richmond Castle or to plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/richmond-castle

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Episode 118 - The making of Berwick-upon-Tweed Barracks Jul 01, 2021

On the 300th anniversary of the creation of these barracks that served as a base for soldiers from the Civil War to the First World War, we’re joined by senior properties curator Dr Mark Douglas to discover why they were built, the regiments that were stationed here and what daily military life would have been like. Plus, we meet award-winning artist Chloe Cox to discover how the story of one First World War soldier who lived here has been immortalised in a painting as part of a national portrait exhibition.

To learn more about Berwick-upon-Tweed Barracks and Main Guard or to plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/berwick-upon-tweed-barracks-and-main-guard

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Episode 117 - Memories of living at Stonehenge in the 1930s Jun 24, 2021

This week we’re looking back at a fairly recent chapter of Stonehenge’s long history and the story of a little girl, whose father was the custodian of the stone circle in the 1930s. Jean Grey, now 90, has recently shared her recollections of living near the site and we’re joined by Senior Properties Historian, Dr Susan Greaney, to discover what life would have been like at our most famous prehistoric monument at that time.

To learn more about Stonehenge or to plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/stonehenge

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Episode 116 - Family life with the Darwins at Down House Jun 17, 2021

As we approach Father’s Day in the UK on Sunday 20 June, we’re looking at how the ‘father of evolution’ enjoyed work and family life at his home. Charles Darwin lived at Down House in Kent for 40 years until his death in 1882 at the age of 73. In that time, he conceived his theory of natural selection – and also became the father to 10 children.

Joining us to discuss family life with the Darwins is Curator of Collections and Interiors Dr Tessa Kilgarriff.

To learn more about Down House or to plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/downhouse

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Episode 115 - A new archaeological excavation at Birdoswald Roman Fort Jun 10, 2021

This week, we’re looking ahead to the start of a new 4-year archaeological excavation by Newcastle University and Historic England at Birdoswald Roman Fort in Cumbria. Joining us to reveal what is happening, where they will be excavating, and how you can see it for yourself, are Tony Wilmott, senior archaeologist at Historic England, and English Heritage’s collections curator for Hadrian’s Wall and the North East region, Dr Frances McIntosh.

To learn more about Birdoswald Roman Fort or to plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/birdoswald

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Episode 114 - A knight’s tale: The real-life English Heritage knights Jun 03, 2021

We’re joined by senior properties historian Paul Pattison and curator of collections and interiors Dickon Whitewood to get to know some of the real-life knights connected to English Heritage castles.

Discover the stories of Hubert de Burgh at Dover Castle in Kent and Hadleigh Castle in Essex, John Lovell at Old Wardour Castle in Wiltshire and Thomas Hungerford at Farleigh Hungerford Castle in Somerset.

To find out more about the history of knights, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/inspire-me/brief-history-of-knights

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Episode 113 - Painting a portrait of Sarah Forbes Bonetta at Osborne May 27, 2021

This week we’re focusing on a new exhibition of portraits, which have been commissioned to celebrate the lives of six people of the African diaspora, whose stories have contributed to England's rich history. One of the figures featured in these new portraits is Omoba Aina, later renamed Sarah Forbes Bonetta. The daughter of a West African ruler, Sarah was captured and enslaved by King Gezo of Dahomey (present-day Benin) at the age of five. In 1850 she was presented as a ‘diplomatic gift’ to Captain Frederick Forbes of the H.M.S. Bonetta and brought to England, where Forbes introduced her to Queen Victoria. The queen was so taken with the young child that she paid for her education and became her guardian.

Joining us to discuss her life and the artwork her story has inspired are English Heritage’s properties historians’ team leader, Dr Andrew Hann and artist Hannah Uzor.

To discover more about the new portrait exhibition, Painting our Past: The African Diaspora in England, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/learn/painting-our-past

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Episode 112 - Preserving the past at Marble Hill and Belsay Hall May 20, 2021

This week we’re joined by English Heritage properties senior national project manager, Reuben Briggs, and head of collections conservation, Amber Xavier-Rowe, to reveal what’s happening at two of English Heritage’s major conservation projects at Marble Hill House in Twickenham, London, and Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens in Northumberland.

Plus, we reveal the plans for English Heritage’s new conservation camper, which will be touring a number of English Heritage’s conservation projects (including these two) over the months ahead, to provide a pop-up workshop space where visitors can learn about the conservation work taking place.

To discover more about English Heritage’s conservation in action, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/learn/conservation

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Episode 111 - The lawn games and sports played at our historic sites May 13, 2021

This week is National Croquet Week, and to celebrate, we’re taking a look back at the lawn games and sports that have been played at our historic sites. From croquet and bowling lawns, to cricket pitches, tennis courts, and even golf courses, our sites have hosted a surprising variety of sports, with many continuing to be played today.

Joining us to reveal more are English Heritage landscape advisor, Emily Parker, and sport historian Simon Inglis.

To read more about the history of lawn games at our sites, go to https://blog.english-heritage.org.uk/sports-at-our-historic-places/

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Episode 110 - Lord of war: Napoleon Bonaparte’s life and legacy May 06, 2021

This week we’re heading back to the late 18th and early 19th century, when Europe was ravaged by the French Revolutionary Wars and the Napoleonic War, named after French military general and self-appointed emperor, Napoleon Bonaparte.

On the bicentenary of his death, we’re joined by senior properties historian, Paul Pattison, and keeper of the Wellington Collection at Apsley House, Josephine Oxley, to discuss Napoleon’s life, legacy and defeat – and the heritage sites built here in England to defend against his threats of invasion.

To learn more about the Wellington Collection at Apsley House, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/apsley

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Episode 109 - King on the run: The imprisonment and escapes of King Charles I Apr 29, 2021

We’re joined by English Heritage Properties Curator Roy Porter and Senior Properties Historian Paul Pattison to trace the series of events, imprisonments and escapes that led up to the execution of King Charles I. The Stuart king remains the only British monarch to have been tried and executed for treason, marking one of the most gruesome chapters in the English Civil War – and we are picking up the story in 1646, when the Scots handed Charles over to the English Parliament.

To discover more about Charles I’s imprisonment at Carisbrooke Castle on the Isle of Wight, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/carisbrooke

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Episode 108 - Here be dragons! Fire breathing beasts and where to find them Apr 22, 2021

As we approach St George’s Day on 23 April, we’re investigating the origins of dragon myths. George, of course, is England’s patron saint and as the legend goes, he slew a deadly fire-breathing dragon. While these legendary beasts might not be real, there's nothing mythical about their place in cultures throughout history, and around the world.

Joining us to delve into the origins of the dragon myth is Professor Carolyne Larrington, who is a professor of medieval European literature at the University of Oxford.

To read more of Carolyne’s thoughts on dragon myths, go to https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/inspire-me/blog/articles/dragons-and-their-origins/

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Episode 107 - A flying visit: 100 years since the closure of Stonehenge aerodrome Apr 15, 2021

This week we’re marking a slightly unusual milestone in the long history of Stonehenge, because this year marks a hundred years since the closure of the Stonehenge aerodrome. Of course, there’s no obvious trace of this when you visit the famous stones today. But in the early 20th century, just a few hundred yards from the monument’s southern edge was a large First World War aviation training complex.

We’re joined by Senior Property Curator of Stonehenge, Heather Sebire, and Martyn Barber from Historic England’s Aerial Investigation and Mapping Department to discover why it was here, how it was used and if there is any truth to the story that the stones were used for target practice!

To learn more about the Stonehenge aerodrome, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/stonehenge/history-and-stories/first-world-war-aerodrome

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Episode 106 - Changing fortunes: At home with the Hattons at Kirby Hall Apr 08, 2021

Kirby Hall is one of England’s greatest Elizabethan and 17th-century houses, once owned by Sir Christopher Hatton, Lord Chancellor to Queen Elizabeth I. However, the Hall’s fortunes declined in line with those of its owners.

We’re joined by senior properties historian Megan Leyland, interpretation manager Nadine Langford and curator of collections and interiors Dickon Whitewood to discover the story of the Hall, its former owners, servants and guests – and the new project to bring these to life for visitors.

To discover more about Kirby Hall or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/kirby-hall

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Episode 105 - Saints, gospels and vicious Viking raids: The story of Lindisfarne Priory Apr 01, 2021

This week, we’re joined by senior properties historian Michael Carter to discuss the 1,400 year-long history of Lindisfarne, or Holy Island, in Northumberland, which has been a hub of early Christianity, a monastery, a site of pilgrimage to its former bishop, Saint Cuthbert, and a victim of a devastating Viking raid. It was also the birthplace of the Lindisfarne Gospels, one of the most spectacular manuscripts to survive from Anglo-Saxon England, which was thought to have been created in Cuthbert’s honour.

To discover more about Lindisfarne Priory or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/lindisfarne.

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Episode 104 - Digging for history at Tintagel Castle Mar 25, 2021

Following the completion of the five-year long Tintagel Castle Archaeological Research Project, we are joined by Properties Curator Win Scutt and Archaeologist Jaqueline Nowakowski to find out about the project and what it has revealed about Tintagel’s early medieval history.

Discover why English Heritage decided to launch the project, what has happened over the last five years, the structures and key artefacts that have been discovered, and the analytical work that has happened since.

To discover more about Tintagel Castle or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/tintagel

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Episode 103 - At your service: The remarkable working women at our historic houses Mar 18, 2021

All too often during Women’s History Month, stories of high-status women outshine those of unsung working women. In this episode, we’re joined in the studio by English Heritage’s senior properties historian Dr Megan Leyland and properties historians’ team Leader Dr Andrew Hann to discover a selection of the working women who played their part in shaping the stories of English Heritage’s sites.

Charting the rise of women in domestic service from the Middle Ages through to the 20th century – and taking in the stories of everyone from weeding women to governesses and cooks – this episode champions the extraordinary women whom history has overlooked.

To discover more stories of women in history, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/learn/histories/women-in-history

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Episode 102 - A costume drama: Storytelling at Bolsover Castle Mar 11, 2021

This week we’re looking at the colourful lives of a 17th century couple and their pleasure palace in Derbyshire. In the 1600s, William and Margaret Cavendish used Bolsover Castle as a place for entertaining and pursuing their personal interests. Today, this creative couple and their fairy tale mansion are the focus of a new project designed to bring their stories to life for visitors through theatrical costumes and interactive props.

We’re joined by senior properties historian Dr Megan Leyland, costume designer Sophie Fretwell and Illustrator Mel Northover to find out more.

To discover more about Bolsover Castle or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/bolsover

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Episode 101 - Woman at war: Eleanor de Montfort at Dover Castle Mar 04, 2021

This week we’re travelling back to the 13th century to tell the story of the woman at the centre of the 1265 siege of Dover Castle. Eleanor de Montfort was the wife of the powerful earl of Leicester, Simon de Montfort. He led baronial opposition to King Henry III, which spilled out into conflict in 1263. A year into the war, Henry and his heir Prince Edward were captured at the Battle of Lewes, and Simon become the de facto ruler of England. But Prince Edward escaped from captivity in May 1265 and began to turn the tide of the war. In August, Eleanor's husband and son were killed at the Battle of Evesham, and Eleanor was left isolated in her stronghold of Dover Castle.

Joining us to pick up the story is English Heritage curator of collections and interiors for the south east region, Kathryn Bedford.

To discover more about Eleanor de Montfort, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/learn/histories/women-in-history/eleanor-de-montfort

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Episode 100 - Hide and seek with kings and priests at Boscobel House and the Royal Oak Feb 25, 2021

For the 100th episode of the podcast we’ve made the journey over to Boscobel House and the Royal Oak in Shropshire to search out the story of the king who hid in an oak tree. Charles II will forever be linked to Boscobel House and the tree that saved his life. But how did a king end up seeking sanctuary here and what was the state of England at the time?

We’re joined by site manager Daisy Lambert, garden supervisor Andrew Degg and national project manager Tracy Simmons to reveal the results of a major project to share one of England’s greatest adventure stories and create a great day out for visitors.

To discover more about Boscobel House and the Royal Oak or to plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/boscobel

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Episode 99 - Conserving works of art – and how to look after your own Feb 18, 2021

Responsible for caring for 1,300 artworks in properties across the country, along with 15 in situ painted decorative schemes and the nation’s largest collection of wall paintings, English Heritage’s paintings conservators have their work cut out.

We’re joined by senior collections conservator Rachel Turnbull, to discover what goes in to caring for and restoring this fine art collection – and what art lovers can do to care for their own paintings at home.

To discover more about the work of our painting conservators, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/learn/conservation/paintings-conservation

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Episode 98 - Eleanor of Castile: Spanish princess and English queen Feb 11, 2021

We’re joined in the studio by senior properties historian Nick Holder and author Sara Cockerill to look back at the remarkable but largely untold story of Eleanor of Castile. Born in 1241, she was raised as a Spanish princess, before becoming queen consort to Edward I in England.

Join us as we discuss her devoted relationship with her husband, and how she helped him to survive civil war, a crusade to the Holy Land and accumulate a large property empire for the English Crown. We also reveal how Eleanor’s legacy can be traced across a number of English Heritage sites that featured in her life, while her cultural influence in architecture, design and even gardening still survives to this day.

To read about the Eleanor Cross in Geddington – one of 12 crosses Edward I erected at the places where Eleanor’s body rested during the journey south to Westminster Abbey after her death – go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/eleanor-cross-geddington

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Episode 97 - A tale of two castles: The Bigods, royal rebellions and Framlingham and Orford Castles Feb 04, 2021

This week we’re joined by head properties curator Dr Jeremy Ashbee to discover a real-life Games of Thrones story involving one powerful family, two castles, five successive kings, rebellion and restitution. Listen on to learn about three generations of the powerful Bigod family, their royal rumbles and the rise, fall and rebuilding of their home at Framlingham Castle in Suffolk.

To discover more about the history of Framlingham Castle or to plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/framlingham

To discover more about Orford Castle, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/orford-castle

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Episode 96 - Adventures in architecture: Sir Charles Monck and the creation of Belsay Hall & Gardens Jan 28, 2021

Imagine you're living in the 1800s, with the vision (and budget) to build a glorious new home. How would you go about making your grand design a reality?

We’re joined by properties historian team leader Dr Andrew Hann and landscape advisor Emily Parker to discuss how Sir Charles Monck did just that at Belsay Hall in Northumberland, and the influence of his travels on his grand home and gardens.

To discover more about the history of Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens or to plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/belsay

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Episode 95 - English Heritage in ruins Jan 21, 2021

So many English Heritage sites are ruined – famously lots of abbeys and castles, but also houses, parish churches and chapels, Roman villas and bath-houses – but this does not detract from their importance or the enjoyment of visiting them.

We’re joined by head properties curator Dr Jeremy Ashbee and properties curator Sam Stones to discuss the challenges of conserving them, why English Heritage don’t rebuild them and how they help visitors to get the most out of them.

To discover how you can play your part in helping English Heritage to protect and conserve the nation’s most vulnerable historic properties, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/support-us/our-appeals

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Episode 94 - The life and work of St Aelred of Rievaulx Jan 14, 2021

We’re joined in the studio by senior properties historian Dr Michael Carter and interpretation assistant Nick Collinson to discover the story of the most important churchman in 12th century England.

At the time of his death in 1167, Aelred of Rievaulx Abbey in North Yorkshire was immediately regarded as a saint. During his life, he accomplished many things, serving as a royal steward, an emissary to the Pope and abbot of Rievaulx, as well as demonstrating his talent as an author, preacher and spiritual mentor to his monks.

And today, as we will discover, he is also starting to be considered a medieval gay icon. To learn more about Rievaulx Abbey, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/rievaulx

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Episode 93 - Superstition, magic and the Evil Eye in the Roman world Jan 07, 2021

This week, we’re joined by curator of collections Cameron Moffett and curator of collections (Hadrian’s Wall & the North East) Frances McIntosh to discover what we know about the Romans’ beliefs in magic, superstitions and the ‘Evil Eye’.

And we’ll look at the evidence for these at English Heritage sites, including the discovery of some rather surprising objects thought to protect the holder against bad luck.

To read more about Hadrian’s Wall, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/hadrianswall

To discover more about Wroxeter Roman City, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/wroxeter

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Episode 92 - Time to change: The history of our calendar Dec 31, 2020

As many of us prepare to hang up a new calendar for the year ahead, we’re joined by Professor Robert Poole to reveal the surprising history of our calendar.

Discover how Britain switched from the Julian calendar to the Gregorian calendar in the 18th century, why the change was necessary to catch up with most of Europe, and the truth behind the 'calendar riots' of 1752. We’ll also discuss the problem with Easter and how the changes continue to affect us today.

To read more about Lord Chesterfield, who introduced the legislation to switch to the Gregorian calendar while living at Ranger’s House in London, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/rangers-house-the-wernher-collection/history-and-stories/lord-chesterfield

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Episode 91 - The pagan winter customs that shaped Christmas Dec 24, 2020

This week we’re joined by English Heritage Trustee Professor Ronald Hutton to discuss the pagan winter customs behind the Christmas traditions we take for granted today. Discover the ancient origins of winter feasting, Christmas carols, present giving, kissing under the mistletoe and more!

To read about the history of Christmas, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/christmas/the-history-of-christmas

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Episode 90 - Festive feasts through the ages Dec 17, 2020

It’s traditional to eat a lot at Christmas, but did you know that winter has been a time of feasting for far longer?

This week we’re joined by Properties Historians Team Leader, Dr Andrew Hann, and Properties Historian, Dr William Wyeth to discuss delectable dinners and diners through the ages, from prehistory to the near present. We’ll look at what was eaten, where and when, including at Stonehenge, medieval castles, a deserted village and grand residences such as Belsay Hall in Northumberland and Audley End House in Essex.

To find out more about medieval Christmas food, go to https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/christmas/medieval-christmas-food

To read about the history of the Christmas pudding, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/inspire-me/blog/blog-posts/2016/a-history-of-the-christmas-pudding

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Episode 89 - Thomas Becket’s murder and Dover Castle’s Great Tower Dec 10, 2020

On the 850th anniversary of an event that shook medieval Europe, we’re joined by senior properties historian Steven Brindle to look back at the murder of Thomas Becket, who was the Archbishop of Canterbury, and how it happened.

We’ll also discuss how King Henry II, whose knights carried out this crime in 1170, tried to salvage his tattered reputation. And we’ll investigate how the building of Dover Castle’s Great Tower for the king can be traced back to Becket’s assassination.

To find out more or plan your visit to Dover Castle, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/dover

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Episode 88 - Medieval ghosts, ghouls and hauntings Dec 03, 2020

This week expect winter chills as we’re joined by senior properties historian Dr Michael Carter to delve into stories of ghosts, ghouls and hauntings at our sites.

Join us as we learn about the monks who loved a spooky story, medieval beliefs about death and the afterlife, remarkable revenants and the impact of the Reformation on people’s beliefs in ghosts.

To discover some more spooky stories connected to English Heritage sites, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/halloween/spooky-stories

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Episode 87 - A marvellous menagerie: The animals that made history Nov 26, 2020

Here on the podcast we spend most of our time discussing the actions of people at the places where they worked or lived through the ages. But far less well known are the stories of the animals and pets that lived alongside them.

This week, we’re joined by properties historians team leader Dr Andrew Hann, senior properties historian Dr Megan Leyland and landscape advisor Emily Parker to discuss some of the remarkable animals that played their own part in making history at our sites, from dancing horses and talking parrots to ring-tailed lemurs and royal elephants!

To learn about another story of exotic animals on an aristocratic estate, go to https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/chiswick-house/history-chiswick-menagerie

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Episode 86 - Mortimer Wheeler and the excavation of Stanwick Iron Age Fort Nov 19, 2020

This week, we’re joined by Senior Properties Historian Dr Susan Greaney and Properties Curator Mark Douglas to reveal the story of a prehistoric site – and the man who unearthed it.

Decades before Time Team turned its experts into much-loved celebrities, one archaeologist was making a name for himself through the new medium of television. That man was Sir Mortimer Wheeler. Discover the story of his dig at Stanwick Iron Age Fort in North Yorkshire which he carried out as part of the Festival of Britain in 1951.

To learn more about Stanwick Iron Age Fort or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/stanwick-iron-age-fortifications.

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Episode 85 - On His Majesty’s Secret Service: The real-life blue plaque secret agents Nov 12, 2020

This week, we’re delving into the hidden history of spies, intelligence personnel and secret agents with English Heritage’s senior historian for blue plaques, Howard Spencer.

Find out about six men and women whose exploits were crucial to British intelligence and, for some, to our endeavours in World War Two. In the past, their lives, work and achievements were shrouded in secrecy. But today, their service, contributions and memory are honoured through blue plaques at their former homes in London.

To read more of the stories behind our blue plaques, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/blue-plaques/blue-plaque-stories

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Episode 84 - Ask the experts: everything you want to know about castles Nov 05, 2020

Did you know that English Heritage cares for more castles than anyone else? That’s why we invited you to put your questions to our experts: head properties curator, Dr Jeremy Ashbee and properties historian, Dr William Wyeth.

Join us as we discover the definition of a castle, why the Normans couldn’t stop building them and how they have changed over time. If you’ve ever wondered what a Motte and Bailey castle is or which was the most besieged English Heritage castle, this is the episode for you!

To learn more about our mighty collection of castles, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/castles

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Episode 83 - Halloween special: Witchcraft and witch marks Oct 29, 2020

Grab your broomsticks and warm your toes by a bubbling cauldron as we explore the history of witches, witchcraft and witch trials in England with Diane Purkiss, Professor of English literature at Oxford University.

Discover when stories of witchcraft really started to take hold in England, the meaning of the phrase ‘the witching hour’ and the purpose of the mysterious witch marks that have been found in historic buildings across the country.

To discover some more spooky stories connected to English Heritage sites, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/halloween/spooky-stories

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Episode 82 - Send in the cavalry! The story of Chesters Roman Fort on Hadrian’s Wall Oct 22, 2020

We’re joined by English Heritage properties historian Andrew Roberts and collections curator Frances McIntosh to discuss the story of Chesters Roman Fort on Hadrian’s Wall, which remains the most complete Roman cavalry fort in Britain.

Discover what life was like for the men stationed here, the importance of the cavalry and the story of John Clayton, who excavated the fort from 1843 until his death in 1890, helping to save this section of Hadrian’s Wall and unearthing many of the objects on display in the fort’s museum.

To discover more about Chesters Roman Fort or to plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/chesters

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Episode 81 - Voices of England: How slavery shaped the nation Oct 15, 2020

Every October, Black History Month celebrates the many achievements of black Britons throughout the centuries. But it also encourages us to look at Britain's dominant role in transatlantic slavery, and to understand the legacies of the trade that still shape our world today.

We’re joined by Professor of History and Memory of Slavery at the University of Bristol, Olivette Otele, to find out more.

To discover more about slavery connections to English Heritage sites, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/learn/research/slavery

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Episode 80 - Black plaques: Celebrating London’s black history Oct 08, 2020

This week we continue to celebrate Black History Month with a journey through time – and the streets of London. We’re joined by curatorial director Anna Eavis and historian Steve Martin to discuss a president, a doctor, a nurse, two stars of stage and screen, and a footballer, who are all commemorated with English Heritage blue plaques at their former homes in the capital.

To discover more about the black history celebrated through our blue plaques scheme, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/blue-plaques/blue-plaque-stories/londons-black-history

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Episode 79 - Untold stories: Poetry for English Heritage Oct 01, 2020

This week we’re joined by English Heritage’s poet-in-residence Jacob Sam-La Rose, emerging Poet Esme Allman and creative programme manager Caroline Moore to discuss a new month-long poetry programme taking place throughout Black History Month in October.

This will see Jacob and a number of emerging African Caribbean poets write poetry inspired by the stories of English Heritage sites or their experiences of visiting them.

To discover more about Jacob’s role as poet-in-residence, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/members-area/members-magazine/2020/introducing-our-new-poet-in-residence

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Episode 78 - The story of Dido Belle at Kenwood Sep 24, 2020

We’re joined by Cathy Power and Sarah Murden to discuss the story of Dido Elizabeth Belle, the illegitimate daughter of British naval officer Sir John Lindsay and an African woman named Maria Bell, who may have been enslaved.

Dido spent much of her life at Kenwood House on Hampstead Heath in North London where was raised by her great uncle, Lord Mansfield, who through the 1750s to 80s was the most powerful judge in England.

To discover more about Dido Belle and Kenwood, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/learn/histories/women-in-history/dido-belle

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Episode 77 - What happened to England’s monks and nuns following the Dissolution of the Monasteries? Sep 17, 2020

This week, we’ve returned to the turbulent Tudor period in which King Henry VIII imposed his will against the Pope through the Dissolution of the Monasteries. This saw the suppression of approximately 900 religious houses across England and Wales and the execution of around 200 members of the religious orders and laymen.

Joining us to discuss how this religious revolution came about – and what happened to the thousands of displaced monks and nuns in its aftermath – is senior properties historian Michael Carter.

To discover more about our monasteries and abbeys, and to plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/learn/histories/monasteries-and-abbeys

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Episode 76 - Finding the sarsen stones: A journey to Stonehenge Sep 10, 2020

Following the publication of new research revealing where Stonehenge’s giant sarsen stones were extracted from, we’re heading out on the road to meet Senior Properties Historian Dr Susan Greaney to trace their journey to Salisbury Plain.

Discover how Professor David Nash from Brighton University tracked the stones back to a specific location, how Stonehenge’s builders transported them and why the stones’ original location has eluded us for so long.

To discover more about the history of Stonehenge or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/stonehenge

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Episode 75 - Border force: The defenders of the north Sep 03, 2020

We’re joined by properties curator Mark Douglas to discover the stories of the English Heritage sites that played their part in defending England’s northern territories.

Join us on an audio tour of the key defences through the ages, from Hadrian’s Wall to Carlisle, Norham, Berwick and Dunstanburgh Castles, and find out what happened to them during peacetime until war broke out across Europe.

To discover more about our collection of castles, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/castles

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Episode 74 - Murderous thieves and legendary buccaneers: Pirates of the English Channel Aug 25, 2020

Scupper me skull and crossbones! This week, we’re casting off for an episode all about the history of piracy and, more specifically, the pirates of the English Channel. And while this might sound like an unlikely title for a film, history tells us that the waters between southern England and northern France were, in fact, a dangerous domain for cargo vessels for several centuries.

Joining us to map out the history of piracy in English waters – and unmask its key figures – is senior properties historian Paul Pattison.

To read more about the pirates of the English Channel, go to https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/inspire-me/pirates-of-england/

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Episode 73 - Son, brother, crusader, king: The story of Richard, Earl of Cornwall Aug 20, 2020

We’re joined in the studio by senior properties historian Michael Carter to reveal the story of Richard, Earl of Cornwall and the English Heritage sites connected with him, from Berkhamstead, Tintagel, Launceston and Restormel Castles, which he owned, to Hailes Abbey, which he founded.

Although his name might not be familiar, he was the second son of King John and the brother of Henry III and enjoyed great influence – not to mention a very eventful life. Listen on to discover how he became one of the richest men in Europe, joined the Barons’ Crusade, was made King of the Germans and was a claimant to the Holy Roman Empire.

To discover more about the history of Richard, Earl of Cornwall and Tintagel Castle, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/tintagel-castle/history-and-legend/richard-of-cornwall

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Episode 72 - The First Barons' War and the Great Siege of Dover Castle Aug 13, 2020

This week, we’re travelling back to the 13th century and the turbulent reign of King John to discover how a rebellion, a war in France and two sieges of Dover Castle in Kent each played their part in the king’s eventual demise.

Joining us to unpick the complex plot is senior properties historian Paul Pattison, who reveals the events leading up to the sieges of Dover Castle, their role in preserving English rule and the evidence that can still be seen today.

To discover more about the history of Dover Castle or to plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/dover

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Episode 71 - When the bubble burst: The South Sea Company stock market crash Aug 06, 2020

This week we’re marking 300 years since one of the most infamous stock market crashes in English history. It was a bubble fuelled by wild speculation and driven by dubious morals – and a bubble which ruined the fortunes of many investors, including some whose estates are now cared for by English Heritage.

Joining us to discuss the South Sea Company stock market bubble – and crash – are properties historians team leader Dr Andrew Hann and Dr Helen Paul, who’s a Lecturer in Economics and Economic History at the University of Southampton.

To learn about the impact of the South Sea Bubble at Brodsworth Hall and Gardens in South Yorkshire, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/brodsworth-hall-and-gardens/history

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Episode 70 - Voices of England: The history hiding in the English landscape Jul 30, 2020

This week we’re joined by anthropologist and author Mary-Ann Ochota to discover the history hiding in plain sight in the English landscape. These features include everything from burial mounds, hill forts and stone circles, to figures carved into chalk hills and the network of ancient paths that crisscross the country. Listen on to learn about the relics the Romans left behind, the legacy of the enclosures and how easy it is to ‘read’ the landscape today.

To order a signed copy of Mary-Ann’s book, Hidden Histories: A Spotter’s Guide to the British Landscape, go to www.maryannochota.com/apps/webstore

To discover more about how England has been shaped by different influences over time, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/voicesofengland

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Episode 69 - Atomic fallout: The story of York Cold War Bunker Jul 23, 2020

On the 75th anniversaries of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in the Second World War, we’re looking back at the long period of military tension that followed. The Cold War between communist Russia and the democratic West was effectively a war of ideologies. But it was also a war in which newly discovered nuclear weapons had the potential to destroy civilisation.

One of the eerie monuments to that era is York Cold War bunker in northern England – and joining us to discuss its story while stationed in the depths of the bunker is senior curator Kevin Booth.

Unfortunately the bunker remains closed to the public at this time, but to discover more about this site, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/york-cold-war-bunker.

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Episode 68 - Keeping up appearances: Exploring the history of makeup Jul 16, 2020

This week we’re joined by fashion historian Amber Butchart and makeup artist Rebecca Butterworth to discuss the history of makeup and their experiences as the presenters of our popular series of makeup tutorials on YouTube, which explain how to get iconic looks through the ages, from Roman times to the 1940s.

Listen on to discover how cosmetics have evolved over time, what they discovered making the series and their favourite historic look to recreate at home.

To watch our series of historic makeup tutorials, go to https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLx2QMoA1Th9dyD5zTlnkvOVZuFYKFXYT9

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Episode 67 - Party at the palace: Socialising with the Courtaulds at Etlham Palace in the 1930s Jul 09, 2020

This week, we’re heading back to the 1930s and a property that was something of a party palace. Eltham Palace and gardens, nestled in south-east London, is rich in history, with royal residents that include Edward II, a young Henry VIII and Charles I, who was the last king to visit before the Civil War. After centuries of neglect, Eltham was then leased to millionaire socialites Stephen and Virginia Courtauld in 1933, who remodelled it as the Art Deco mansion that exists today.

Joining us to discuss Etlham’s history and the lives of its colourful residents and visitors is English Heritage’s properties historians team leader, Dr Andrew Hann.

To discover more about Eltham Palace or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/eltham

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Episode 66 - Voices of England: How the railways shaped the nation Jul 02, 2020

This year English Heritage are celebrating the many ways the past has shaped our nation and this week, at a time when mobility is still restricted, we’re looking back at when a new mode of transport changed life in England forever. Before Britain fell in love with the motor car, and long before the dawn of international flights to exotic destinations, the dawn of rail travel marked a new chapter in England’s story.

We’re joined by head collections curator, Dr Matt Thompson, to discuss the railways’ lasting legacy on the cultural and physical landscape of England.

To discover more about how different influences helped to shape the story of England, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/voicesofengland

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Episode 65 - From home to heritage: 30 years of care at Brodsworth Hall Jun 25, 2020

On the 30th anniversary of Brodsworth Hall and Gardens in South Yorkshire being gifted to the nation, we are joined by senior curator Kevin Booth, head gardener Dan Hale and head curator of collections Martin Allfrey to chart the rise, fall and revival of this grand country home that was built for the Thelluson family and their servants in the 1860s.

Discover how it came to be in English Heritage’s care, why the decision was made to conserve the property ‘as found’ and how it was reopened to visitors in 1995 to share its remarkable stories.

To discover more about Brodsworth Hall and Gardens, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/brodsworth

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Episode 64 - Defending the Roman Empire: Richborough and the Saxon Shore Forts Jun 18, 2020

This week we’re heading back the 4th century, when the strength of the Roman Empire was being tested across Europe, including here in Britain. To defend our shores from invaders, the Romans built a series of forts along the coast, which are collectively known as the Saxon Shore Forts.

Join us as we interview English Heritage Senior Properties Historian Paul Pattison to find out where they were built, what daily life would have been like at them and what happened to them after the Romans left Britain.

To discover more about Richborough Roman Fort and Amphitheatre, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/richborough

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Episode 63 - Written in the stars: summer solstice and stone circles Jun 11, 2020

The summer solstice, which brings the longest day of the year, is due to take place on 20 June and, under normal circumstances, thousands of people would gather at Stonehenge to watch the sun rise over the Heel stone. However, as that’s not possible this year, we’re having our own socially distanced celebration.

Joining us is Senior Properties Historian, Dr Susan Greaney, to discuss the importance of the solstice to Stonehenge and the other prehistoric monuments aligned with it.

To discover more about Stonehenge and the Summer Solstice, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/stonehenge

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Episode 62 - A literary legacy: at home with Charles Dickens Jun 04, 2020

To mark the 150th anniversary of the death of Charles Dickens, we’re joined by English Heritage’s senior historian for blue plaques, Howard Spencer, and Dr Cindy Sughrue, to discuss the author’s life and literary accomplishments at his London home, 48 Doughty Street.

Since reinvented as the Charles Dickens Museum, this Georgian house is the only one of his former homes that can be visited by the public today, with an English Heritage blue plaque honouring his rise to fame as one of the world’s greatest storytellers while living here.

To discover more about the blue plaques scheme, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/blue-plaques

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Episode 61 - The Duke of Wellington and women of influence at Apsley House May 28, 2020

We’re back in the studio with Josephine Oxley, keeper of the Wellington Collection at Apsley House, the former London home of the 1st Duke of Wellington, to challenge the view that the duke became romantically involved with every woman he admired.

Instead, as Josephine explains, letters, paintings and other objects from the collection at Apsley paint a very different picture of Wellington and the women of influence who were his friends.

To discover more about Apsley House and the Duke of Wellington, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/apsley

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Episode 60 - Operation Dynamo and ‘the miracle of Dunkirk’ May 21, 2020

On the 80th anniversary of Operation Dynamo during the Second World War, we’re joined by Senior Properties Historian Paul Pattison to discover how the rescue of 338,000 allied soldiers from the beaches of Dunkirk was masterminded by Vice Admiral Bertram Ramsay from deep inside Dover Castle’s top-secret tunnels.

Learn about the events leading up to it, how it was accomplished and why it was such an important turning point in the war. Plus, listen to an interview with former Army Signalman and Operation Dynamo veteran, Richard Sheen, to understand what life was like at Dover Castle at the time. Sadly, Richard passed away in 2019 at the age of 99. This episode is dedicated to him and his family.

To discover more about Dover Castle and Operation Dynamo, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/dover

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Episode 59 - What was life like at our castles? May 14, 2020

One of the questions that English Heritage staff and volunteers get asked all the time is what life would have been like inside a castle.

We’re joined by head historic properties curator, Dr Jeremy Ashbee, to find out what constitutes a true castle, who would have lived and worked at them and what the typical sounds, sights and smells would have been. We also reveal what life would have been like for the soldiers who defended them and for the prisoners held in their dungeons.

To discover more about English Heritage’s castles, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/castles

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Episode 58 - Voyage of discovery: Charles Darwin and the bicentenary of the launch of HMS Beagle May 07, 2020

On the 200th anniversary of the launch of HMS Beagle and Charles Darwin’s famous voyage that helped him formulate his theories on natural selection, we’re joined by Senior Properties Historian Dr Steven Brindle to find out more. Discover where Darwin travelled, what he found and what happened to the ship after Darwin disembarked.

We’re also joined by Anthony O’Rourke, head gardener at Down House, Darwin’s former home in Kent, to find out about the key experiments the naturalist conducted in his own garden and how these are replicated today.

To discover more about Down House and Darwin’s story, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/downhouse

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Episode 57 - Belsay awakes: Recreating history in Belsay Hall’s gardens Apr 30, 2020

This week we’re combining history and horticulture as we’re joined in the studio by the head of English Heritage’s gardens and landscape team, John Watkins, and acclaimed landscape designer Dan Pearson, to find out about the planned transformation of the gardens at Belsay Hall in Northumberland.

Discover the history of the gardens, the plans to bring them back to their blooming best, and the wider project to transform the visitor experience at this spectacular site.

To discover more about Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/belsay-hall-castle-and-gardens

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Episode 56 - Mary Queen of Scots at Carlisle Castle Apr 23, 2020

On 16 May 1568, a small fishing boat carrying Mary Queen of Scots set sail from Scotland for English shores. After months of conflict and turmoil in Scotland, she had decided to entrust her fate to her cousin, Elizabeth I of England. Two days later Mary was escorted to Carlisle Castle in Cumbria – and so began almost 19 years as a prisoner, before her eventual execution in 1587.

To find out how and why the story unfolded, we’re joined by senior properties historian Steven Brindle who reveals why she sought refuge in England and how her two-month stay at Carlisle turned into the rest of her life held captive.

To discover more about Carlisle Castle or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/carlisle-castle

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Episode 55 - Saint, soldier, slayer: who was the real St. George? Apr 16, 2020

As we approach St. George’s Day on 23 April, we’re investigating the man behind the myth and the sites connected with his story.

Joining us to unravel the secrets of our heroic patron saint is Senior Properties Historian Dr Michael Carter. Listen on to discover where he lived, how he died, why he was sainted and the truth behind that legendary fight with a dragon.

For more myth busting and interesting facts about St George, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/whats-on/st-georges-day/9-things-you-didnt-know-about-st-george/

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Episode 54 - The history of the hunt: how an Easter tradition was hatched Apr 09, 2020

It’s almost Easter, when egg hunts take place in gardens across the country, but have you ever wondered how and why this curious seasonal tradition started?

We’re joined in the studio by senior properties historian Dr Andrew Hann to reveal why eggs were first hidden for children to find, how the tradition has since evolved, and when natural eggs were replaced by the chocolate variety we’re more familiar with today.

To find out more, read Andrew’s blog post on Easter egg hunts at http://blog.english-heritage.org.uk/the-history-of-the-egg-hunt/

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Episode 53 - On the edge of the Roman Empire: the forts of Hadrian’s Wall Apr 02, 2020

After Carrawburgh Roman Fort and Temple of Mithras in Northumberland became the latest Hadrian’s Wall site to be cared for by English Heritage, we’re joined by Properties Curator Mark Douglas to discuss the stories of this and the other key forts we look after.

Discover what purpose they served, what daily life would have been like for the soldiers stationed at them, the artefacts that have since revealed their secrets and how their stories have been brought to life for visitors today.

To discover more about the Hadrian’s Wall sites that we look after, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/hadrians-wall/

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Episode 52 - Power and Influence: the remarkable women who changed history at our sites Mar 26, 2020

To mark the end of Women’s’ History Month, we’re joined in the studio by Senior Properties Historian Dr Megan Leyland and Curator of Collections Olivia Fryman to discuss the lives and accomplishments of a selection of the most remarkable women with a connection to our historic sites.

Discover the stories of Henrietta Howard at Marble Hill House in London, Bess of Hardwick at Hardwick Old Hall in Derbyshire, Lady Anne Clifford at Brough and Brougham Castles in Cumbria and Emma Darwin, wife to the famous scientist Charles Darwin.

To learn about the stories of more remarkable women with a connection to our sites, go to https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/learn/histories/women-in-history/

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Episode 51 - Voices of England: how pre-Christian beliefs shaped our landscape, landmarks & language Mar 19, 2020

This year we’re celebrating the many ways the past has shaped our nation through our year-long ‘Voices of England’ campaign – and here on the podcast we’re launching our own investigations, starting with an interview with English Heritage trustee Professor Ronald Hutton to discuss the legacy of pre-Christian beliefs.

Discover what the earliest settlers in England believed, the evidence that can still be found in our historic landscapes, our ancient ritual monuments and our language, and how the arrival of Christianity changed English society as a whole.

To find out more about our Voices of England campaign, go to https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/voicesofengland

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Episode 50 - Wind of change: saving Saxtead Green Post Mill Mar 12, 2020

This week we’ve travelled to Saxtead Green Post Mill in Suffolk to meet Jonathan Sullivan, whose family have owned and run the mill for generations, along with English Heritage national project manager Joseph James and millwright Tim Whiting to reveal the work that has just gone into restoring and repairing this unique agricultural gem.

Discover the mill’s history, the challenges of caring for it and what visitors can expect during a visit today.

To find out more about the mill or plan a visit, go to https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/saxtead-green-post-mill/

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Episode 49 - The blue plaque women who changed the course of English history Mar 05, 2020

March is Women’s History Month and to celebrate, we’re joined in the studio by English Heritage’s Curatorial Director Anna Eavis, to discuss the stories of a selection of the inspirational women who are honoured with blue plaques at their former London homes.

Learn about the lives and accomplishments of women’s rights campaigners Millicent Garrett Fawcett and Emmeline and Sylvia Pankhurst, pioneering chemist Rosalind Franklin, journalist Martha Gelhorne and more – and discover how English Heritage are hoping to attract more female blue plaque nominations in future.

To find out more about the blue plaques scheme, go to https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/blue-plaques/support-the-scheme/

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Episode 48 - How to cook the Victorian way with Mrs Crocombe at Audley End Feb 27, 2020

Ahead of the launch of new cookery book, How to Cook the Victorian Way with Mrs Crocombe, we meet the book’s authors, senior properties historian Andrew Hann and food historian Annie Gray, to discover the story of Audley End’s former head cook Avis Crocombe and the recipes she left behind.

Learn about Mrs Crocombe’s working life at Audley End, why Bob Stride, a descendent of the Crocombe family, decided to donate her original recipe book to English Heritage, and how she has since become an unlikely YouTube sensation.

To find out more about Audley End House and Gardens, and plan a visit, go to www.englishheritage.org.uk/audley

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Episode 47 - Saints and crusaders: medieval relics and pilgrimage at Battle Abbey Feb 20, 2020

This week we’re joined by Senior Properties Historian Dr Michael Carter to discuss how he came across a previously unpublished list of relics that were at Battle Abbey in the mid-15th century.

Discover how he has been able to show that at least some of the relics were likely the gift of William the Conqueror and had originally been in the Anglo-Saxon royal treasury, and that others were given by King John, having been collected by his brother, Richard I, while on Crusade in the Holy Land.

Plus, we explore the wider medieval belief in relics and pilgrimage – and other English Heritage sites where relics were kept. To find out more about Battle Abbey and plan a visit, go to www.englishheritage.org.uk/battle

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Episode 46 - Elizabeth I and Robert Dudley at Kenilworth Castle Feb 13, 2020

The story of Queen Elizabeth I and Robert Dudley has fascinated people for more than 450 years. Their relationship has been explored in books, films and on TV, most recently by Cate Blanchett and Joseph Fiennes in the film Elizabeth, and by Helen Mirren and Jeremy Irons in the series Elizabeth I. They certainly shared an emotional connection on each other throughout their lives, but were they ever really lovers?

Ahead of Valentine’s Day, we interview head properties curator Dr Jeremy Ashbee to reveal the real story of their supposed romance and Dudley’s now legendary attempt to woo England’s ‘Virgin Queen’ over 19 days in 1575 at Kenilworth Castle in Warwickshire.

To find out more about Kenilworth Castle and plan a visit, go to www.englishheritage.org.uk/kenilworth

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Episode 45 - Unearthing Wrest Park’s Mithraic Glade and Root House Feb 06, 2020

Following an archaeological dig to discover the secrets of the Root House that once sat in the mysterious Mithraic Glade of Wrest Park in Bedfordshire, we meet senior properties historian Dr Andrew Hann and PhD student Jemima Hubberstey to reveal why the glade was created and the literary inspiration behind it.

Plus, we reveal what the Root House was, how it was used, and its unique connection to the story of this spectacular estate.

To find out more about Wrest Park and plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/wrest

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Episode 44 - Dover Castle’s secret Cold War tunnels Jan 30, 2020

This week we’re at Dover Castle in Kent to take an exclusive tour of the ‘Dumpy’ level of its secret underground tunnels with Cold War expert Mark Bennett.

Once fully equipped and designed to keep those inside 'safe' from nuclear fall-out, the austere rooms and tunnels are now largely devoid of their equipment, furnishings, fixtures and fittings, but still retain a chilling air of the Cold War. Discover when the tunnels were built, why Dover Castle was selected and how you can take a tour of the tunnels today.

To find out more about Dover Castle and our exclusive Members’ tours of the ‘Dumpy’ level of the secret war tunnels, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/dover

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Episode 43 - Spring watch: how we prepare our historic gardens for the new season Jan 23, 2020

We’ve managed to convince English Heritage head gardener John Watkins to down tools and join us for a one-to-one gardeners’ question time to talk us through what goes into maintaining our historic gardens.

Discover how our gardening teams are busy preparing for spring, the key jobs they can be found doing over the winter period and the sites where you can eat the produce from our historic kitchen gardens.

To find out more about our gardens and plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/inspire-me/historic-gardens

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Episode 42 - The final frontier: what life was like for the Romans on Hadrian’s Wall Jan 16, 2020

This week we’re joined in the studio by two experts on Roman history – English Heritage Properties Historian Dr Andrew Roberts and Curator for the north east Rachel Wilkinson – to reveal what life would have been like for the Roman soldiers stationed and living along Hadrian’s Wall.

Discover what garrison life would have been like, how the soldiers coped with the harsh British winters and the artefacts that offers clues to their daily life in our museums today.

To find out more about Hadrian’s Wall or plan a visit to any of the English Heritage sites along it, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/hadrians-wall

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Episode 41 - New year, new skills: behind the scenes with the Stonehenge volunteers Jan 09, 2020

If you’re inspired to try something new in 2020 then volunteering with English Heritage might just be what you’ve been looking for. We head behind the scenes at Stonehenge to meet three volunteers with very different roles to find out what a day in their volunteering life is like – and we reveal the other opportunities available to get involved across the country.

To find out more about volunteering with English Heritage, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/volunteer

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Episode 40 - The English Heritage sites that changed the course of history Jan 02, 2020

Happy New Year from English Heritage. If you’re looking for inspiration for places to visit over the months ahead, then this is the episode for you. We’re joined in the studio by head historic properties curator Dr Jeremy Ashbee, head of learning and Interpretation Dr Dominique Bouchard, and senior properties historian Dr Steven Brindle to discover the English Heritage sites where the course of history was changed forever.

Listen on to find out what three sites and events each of our experts nominated, why they were pivotal to English and even global history, and what you need to know about each of them.

To plan a visit to any of the sites mentioned, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk

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Episode 39 - The origins of Christmas carols, with a special festive performance Dec 24, 2019

We’ve come over all festive this week as we take a break from the studio to reveal the history of carolling with English Heritage Trustee Ronald Hutton and bring you an exclusive carol concert from Bolsover Castle in Derbyshire in time for the big day!

Get in the Christmas spirit with The Chesterfield Philharmonic Choir as they sing a selection of festive favourites and discover the story behind each of them.

To plan a visit to Bolsover Castle, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/bolsover

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Episode 38 - A weird and wonderful history of Christmas Dec 19, 2019

We’re in the studio with English Heritage Trustee Ronald Hutton to discuss many of the weird and wonderful Christmas traditions that many of us take for granted.

Listen on to discover the story behind Santa Claus, the yule log and Christmas cards, trees and stockings, not to mention the puzzling traditions of kissing under mistletoe, wassailing, Mummers' plays and the Lord of Misrule.

To read about the history of Christmas through the ages go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/christmas/the-history-of-christmas

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Episode 37 - Celebrating Christmas with Queen Victoria and Prince Albert at Osborne Dec 12, 2019

This week we’re joined by Osborne curator Michael Hunter to reveal how Queen Victoria and Prince Albert celebrated Christmas.

Discover how the royal couple popularised a new way of seeing in the festive season, how Prince Albert was instrumental in bringing German traditions to Britain, such as the Christmas tree, and what Christmas was like for the servants working at Osborne.

For more information or to plan a visit to Osborne, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/osborne

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Episode 36 - The rise of Mead: Toasting the world’s oldest alcoholic drink Dec 05, 2019

Once the Vikings’ drink of choice, mead now has a new and growing following who are putting a modern twist on the historical classic.

To celebrate the revival of this golden brew, we head into the studio with resident expert Cameron Moffett to discover the history of the world’s oldest alcoholic drink, how English Heritage became the UK’s largest retailer of it and how modern cocktails have helped to reinvent mead for a new generation of fans.

For three mead cocktail recipes to try at home, go to: www.english-heritage.org.uk/about-us/search-news/mead-resurgence/

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Episode 35 - Deal Castle and Henry VIII’s ‘device forts’ Nov 28, 2019

480 years since Henry VIII started building his ‘device forts’ in 1539, we travel to Deal Castle in Kent to meet senior properties historian Paul Pattison and discover the story of this string of artillery forts along the southern English and Welsh coast.

Find out why these unique defences were built, what distinguishes them architecturally and which forts you can visit today.

For more information about Deal Castle and to plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/deal

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Episode 34 - Charles Darwin and 'On the Origin of Species' at Down House Nov 21, 2019

On the 160th anniversary of publication of 'On the Origin of Species', we pay a visit to Down House in Kent to interview Senior Properties Historian Steven Brindle, senior gardener Kristyna Slivova and historic properties steward Kim Durham about Darwin’s time at Down House, the experiments he performed there and the legacy of his seminal work today.

For more information about Down House, Home of Charles Darwin and to plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/downhouse

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Episode 33 - Memory & Light: the sound installation delighting visitors’ senses at Belsay Hall Nov 14, 2019

This week we’re back on the road to experience a new sound installation created by the world’s most performed living composer Arvo Pärt and Arup, the great engineers and designers . We meet curator Clare Farrow and site manager Samantha Shotten to find out what visitors can expect and how installations such as this are helping to bring the history of English Heritage sites to life in new and innovative ways.

For more information about Belsay Hall and Gardens and to plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/belsay

Music credits: Spiegel im Spiegel, Für Alina and Silentium (from the second movement of Tabula Rasa) by Arvo Pärt © ECM Records. All music is used in agreement with ECM Records, Universal Edition and Arvo Pärt Centre.

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Episode 32 - Nursing the nation: how Wrest Park became a First World War country house hospital Nov 07, 2019

Ahead of Armistice Day on 11 November, we talk to senior properties historian Dr Andrew Hann to find out how Wrest Park, the magnificent former seat of the De Grey family in Bedfordshire, was reinvented as a country house convalescent home and later a military hospital during the First World War.

Discover the stories of the nurses who worked here, what the soldiers did to keep their spirits up and the disaster that forced it to close.

For more information about Wrest Park and to plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/wrest

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Episode 31 - 'These Our Monsters' : Retelling myths and legends in our new book of short stories Oct 31, 2019

This week we’re back in the studio with English Heritage’s publishing manager Katherine Davey and literary reviewer and journalist James Kidd to discuss These Our Monsters, our new book of short stories by eight contemporary novelists inspired by the myths, legends and folklore connected to our sites.

Join Charles, Katherine and James as they discuss the concept of the book and James’s own involvement, before looking at how the writers took on the challenge of re-imagining the stories of the past.

To order a copy of These Our Monsters, go to https://www.english-heritageshop.org.uk/books-media

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Episode 30 - The Duke of Wellington and the Battle of Waterloo at Apsley House Oct 24, 2019

We’re at Apsley House in London, the grand former home of the Duke of Wellington, to meet keeper of the Wellington Collection Josephine Oxley.

Listen on to discover why this beautiful Georgian building in the heart of the capital was once known as 'Number 1 London', its role in honouring the Iron Duke’s great victory at the Battle of Waterloo in 1815 and why it is home to one of the finest art collections in London.

For more information or to plan a visit, go to https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/apsley-house/

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Episode 29 - Rembrandt’s ultimate ‘selfie’ at Kenwood Oct 17, 2019

To mark the 350th anniversary of Rembrandt’s death a new exhibition has been launched at Kenwood, the London home of the Dutch artist’s most famous painting, Self-portrait with Two Circles. The exhibition, called #nofilter, sees the painting re-presented alongside a new digital artwork which will be comprised of ‘selfies’ taken by visitors.

We meet senior curator Wendy Monkhouse to find out more about the enduring appeal of the painting, how it came to be at Kenwood and what visitors can expect during a visit to see it and the rest of Kenwood’s remarkable collection of art today.

For more information or to plan a visit, go to https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/kenwood/

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Episode 28 - Behind the scenes of the 1066 Battle of Hastings re-enactment Oct 10, 2019

We head to 1066 Battle of Hastings, Abbey and Battlefield in East Sussex to discover what goes into recreating history at our infamous annual Battle of Hastings re-enactment on the very site where the armies of King Harold and William the Conqueror clashed.

We meet events manager Diane Evans and re-enactor Nigel Amos, who has played both King Harold and William the Conqueror in previous years, to reveal what is involved in organising and taking part in the biggest event in the entire English Heritage calendar.

To find out more or plan a visit, go to https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/1066-battle-of-hastings-abbey-and-battlefield/

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Episode 27 - Exodus: the story behind reggae legend Bob Marley’s blue plaque in London Oct 03, 2019

This week, we interview historian Howard Spencer to reveal the story behind the new blue plaque at the Chelsea house where reggae singing sensation Bob Marley lived in 1977 after fleeing from Jamaica.

It was while living here that Marley and his band the Wailers finished recording songs for what became the Exodus album, including Waiting in Vain, Three Little Birds, One Love and Jamming. The house is also near the pitches in nearby Battersea Park where Marley and his bandmates played football.

To find out more about our blue plaque scheme, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/blue-plaques/

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Episode 26 - Rescuing England’s largest collection of rare wall paintings Sep 24, 2019

We’re joined in the studio by Senior Collections Conservator Rachel Turnbull and Senior Properties Historian Dr Steven Brindle to find out about a new project to protect and conserve England’s largest collection of historic wall paintings.

Learn the stories behind these rare and fragile works of art, how much work is going to be involved in their conservation and the work underway to ensure these precious paintings don’t vanish forever.

To find out more, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/wallpaintings

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Episode 25 - Building a Bronze Age roundhouse at Beeston Castle in Cheshire Sep 19, 2019

We’re at Beeston Castle, one of the most spectacular medieval sites in England, to meet the team behind a project to build a replica of a Bronze Age Roundhouse in its grounds and bring its prehistory to life for visitors.

Discover what goes into building a prehistoric home, the difference between an Iron Age and Bronze Age roundhouse and how it will be used once it has been completed.

To find out more about Beeston Castle’s history or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/beeston

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Episode 24 - The story of a real Downton Abbey at Brodsworth Hall and Gardens in South Yorkshire Sep 12, 2019

As the new Downton Abbey film opens in cinemas, we head over to Brodsworth Hall and Gardens in South Yorkshire to meet curator Eleanor Matthews and discover how the story of this Victorian country house and its inhabitants can be compared to the fictional world of Downton Abbey.

Learn about the Thellusson family who lived here, what the house would have been like during its Victorian heyday and how, after years of gentle decay, it was finally saved for the nation.

To find out more about Brodsworth Hall and Gardens or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/brodsworth

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Episode 23 - Enter a lost industrial world at J.W.Evans Silver Factory in Birmingham Sep 05, 2019

This week we’re in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter to discover the story of the J.W. Evans silver factory with the founder’s grandson Tony Evans.

Listen on to find out what life would have been like working here during the factory’s heyday in the Victorian and Edwardian eras, the difference between die sinkers and drop stampers and how this industrial treasure house came to be under the care of English Heritage today.

To find out more or book a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/j-w-evans-silver-factory

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Episode 22 - The Iron Bridge and the Industrial Revolution Aug 29, 2019

On the 240th anniversary of the creation of the iconic Iron Bridge in Shropshire, we meet head collections curator Matt Thompson to find out how its creation marked a turning point in engineering history, how it revolutionised the use of iron, and how it’s paved the way for other engineering projects.

To find out more about the Iron Bridge or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/ironbridge

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Episode 21 - Steam power at Stott Park Bobbin Mill in Cumbria Aug 22, 2019

At Stott Park Bobbin Mill on the shores of Lake Windermere in Cumbria, we meet site manager Michael Callaghan and historic property supervisor Tracy Shaw to discover the story of this unique industrial heritage site.

We reveal what life would have been like for the ‘Bobbin Boys’ who worked here, the secrets of producing the perfect bobbin and the challenges of maintaining the mill as they fire up their repaired steam-powered boiler.

To plan a visit to see it yourself, go to https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/stottpark

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Episode 20 - Mary Tudor and the succession crisis at Framlingham Castle in Suffolk Aug 15, 2019

This week we join head historic properties curator Jeremy Ashbee at Framlingham Castle in Suffolk to discover how it came to be at the centre of a succession crisis in 1553, which saw the crowning of England’s first official queen.

Listen on to discover how the castle played a key role in events leading up to Mary’s coronation and why her subsequent reign was ultimately cut short.

For more details about Framlingham Castle and to plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/framlingham

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Episode 19 - Creating Tintagel Castle’s new landmark bridge Aug 08, 2019

As Tintagel Castle opens its new landmark bridge to visitors this weekend, we welcome Head Historic Properties Curator Jeremy Ashbee, Head of National Projects Nichola Tasker and Senior National Project Manager Reuben Briggs to the studio to find out more.

Discover why the bridge has been constructed, how the winning design was selected and what has gone into creating this spectacular feat of engineering.

To read more about Tintagel Castle’s history and book a bridge crossing, go to https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/tintagel-castle/

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Episode 18 - Undressing the history of fashion with Amber Butchart Aug 01, 2019

We interview fashion historian and presenter of our popular historic makeup tutorials on YouTube, Amber Butchart, to trace the big developments in English fashion history, discover how much effort goes into making historically accurate costumes and reveal the most outrageous fashion statements through the centuries.

To watch Amber’s latest video on Georgian makeup, go to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p5wYPgaMabY or check out our series of history inspired makeup tutorials at https://www.youtube.com/user/EnglishHeritageFilm/playlists

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Episode 17 - Brave knights and epic fights: The making of a legendary joust Jul 25, 2019

As our new season of legendary jousts gets underway, we head behind the scenes at Kenilworth Castle in Warwickshire to discover what goes into recreating medieval history with joust organiser Diana Evans and professional jouster Dominic Sewell.

Discover when jousting was invented, how it has evolved over time and the skills involved in becoming a modern day hero on horseback for the crowds.

For details of all of our joust events taking place over summer, visit https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/whats-on/knights-jousts-events/

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Episode 16 - Studying the skies above Stonehenge with space scientist Maggie Aderin-Pocock Jul 18, 2019

To celebrate the launch of our new digital project, Stonehenge Skyscape, allowing everyone anywhere to watch the sun, moon and stars above Britain’s most famous prehistoric monument, we join space scientist and BBC’s The Sky at Night presenter Maggie Aderin-Pocock to find out more.

Discover the role astronomy might have played in prehistoric life, the meaning of archeoastronomy and what you should look out for in the sky above the stones.

To experience Stonehenge Skyscape for yourself, go to https://www.stonehengeskyscape.co.uk/

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Episode 15 - The centenary of the Cenotaph: the UK’s most famous war memorial Jul 11, 2019

A century after the unveiling of the original Cenotaph memorial in London, we are joined by senior properties historian Dr Steven Brindle and Dr Lucy Noakes, professor of modern history at the University of Essex to discover its story.

Listen on to find out how and why this famous First World War memorial was created for the Peace Day celebrations of 19 July 1919 and how it’s come to inspire the designs of other memorials to conflict all over the world.

To find out more about the World War I memorials in our care, go to https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/learn/story-of-england/20th-century/london-wwi-memorials/

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Episode 14 - The story behind Kenilworth Castle’s Elizabethan Garden Jul 04, 2019

Ten years since our gardening team recreated the Elizabethan garden at Kenilworth Castle, we meet landscapes advisor Emily Parker and head gardener Fiona Tansey to discover the story behind the garden, the Elizabethan garden style, the planting and features of the garden that visitors should look out for during a visit today and the activities planned to mark the anniversary, including 19 days of celebrations planned to commemorate Elizabeth I’s historic 19-day visit to the castle in the summer of 1575.

To take an interactive tour of the garden and find out more visit: www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/kenilworth-castle/history-and-stories/elizabethan-garden/

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Episode 13 - How the Victorians invented the great British beach holiday Jun 27, 2019

As thoughts turn to holidays ahead, we join senior properties historian Andrew Hann to discover the role of the Victorians in popularising British beach holidays and seaside resorts.

Learn how many of the things we now associate with a trip to the British seaside (fish and chips, promenades and piers) have their roots in the Victorian summer holiday, and how Queen Victoria herself developed a love of the seaside at her own private beach at Osborne on the Isle of Wight.

You can find out more about life during the Victorian era here: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/learn/story-of-england/victorian/

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Episode 12 - Behind the scenes of Summer Solstice at Stonehenge Jun 20, 2019

As the team at Stonehenge prepare to welcome thousands of visitors to celebrate the start of summer and see the sun rise between the stones on the longest day of the year, we head behind the scenes to meet Senior Properties Historian Dr Susan Greaney and Senior Property Curator Heather Sebire.

Discover how the solstice informed the formation of the stones, how the solstice was originally celebrated here, the challenges of managing the solstice celebrations today and what you need to do if you want to join the festivities.

To find out more about Stonehenge and Summer Solstice, visit https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/stonehenge/plan-your-visit/summer-solstice/

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Episode 11 - The mythology of plants at Mount Grace Priory Jun 13, 2019

At Mount Grace Priory in North Yorkshire, our gardening team are growing plants inspired by medieval monks across Europe with aphrodisiac, narcotic and hallucinogenic qualities and names like mandrake and deadly nightshade. Today these might sound like the stuff of storybook spells, but for medieval monks they were ingredients in everyday remedies to treat all kinds of complaints*.

We asked our Senior Gardens Advisor for the North and Midlands, Dr Michael Klemperer, to help us uncover the stories behind some of the plants you’ll find in our garden.

For more information about Mount Grace Priory, visit https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/dover-castle/history-and-stories/d-day-deception

*Never consume any of the plants referenced without medical advice.

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Episode 10 - The D-Day landings and Dover Castle Jun 06, 2019

On the 75th anniversary of D-Day on Tuesday, 6 June 1944, we meet English Heritage’s senior properties historian Paul Pattison to discover the story of the Normandy landings, the other operations that fed into this turning point of the Second World War and how the iconic fortress of Dover Castle played its role.

For more information about the D-Day deceptions, visit https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/dover-castle/history-and-stories/d-day-deception/

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Episode 9 - Author George Orwell’s blue plaque and the making of 1984 May 30, 2019

On the 70th anniversary of the publication of author George Orwell’s most famous novel 1984, presenter Charles Rowe interviews historian Howard Spencer to discover the story behind Orwell’s blue plaque in London and discuss how accurate he was in predicting the future.

To find out more about our blue plaques scheme or order a copy of our guide to London’s Blue Plaques, go to https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/blue-plaques/

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Episode 8 - Conversations in Making: artist Linda Brothwell on her new exhibition at Stonehenge May 23, 2019

As Stonehenge prepares to welcome visitors to its new exhibition, Conversations in Making, which opens on 24 May 2019, we headed to artist Linda Brothwell’s studio at Spike Island in Bristol to get a preview of her artwork about to go on display.

The exhibition will feature a collection of 40 copper and silver bowls, beakers and vessels that form a portrait of the area, charting the connections between Stonehenge and the communities that have lived around the monument, both past and present.

For more information, go to https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/stonehenge/things-to-do/linda-brothwell/

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Episode 7 - Discover the treasures of Kenwood in London May 16, 2019

We travel to Hampstead Heath in London to explore the breathtaking interiors and world-class art collection of Kenwood in the company of assistant curator Louise Cooling. Discover the story of this hidden gem, its former owners and its renowned collection of paintings, which remain free for everyone to enjoy today.

To learn more about the history of the house and its treasures, or to plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/kenwood

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Episode 6 - Victorian cook Avis Crocombe at Audley End House in Essex May 09, 2019

This week we join food historian Annie Gray at Audley End House and Gardens in Essex to discover the story of Victorian cook Avis Crocombe, whose cookbook was discovered by a relative and donated to English Heritage.

It provides a fascinating insight into the food that she prepared for Lord and Lady Braybrooke and their guests. More recently Mrs Crocombe has been featured as the main character in our popular series of YouTube videos in which a re-enactor prepares a selection of her original recipes.

To watch the videos, go to www.youtube.com/englishheritage and search for The Victorian Way playlist.

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Episode 5 - Explore England’s history on a pilgrimage walk May 02, 2019

We join Guy Hayward and Jason Goodwin from the British Pilgrimage Trust to walk a section of the South Dorset Old Stones Way – one of 10 historic trails taking in English Heritage sites en-route.

Listen on to discover the meaning of pilgrimage, the mental and physical benefits of exploring our past, and what you can expect to discover along the way.

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Episode 4 - Re-discovering Walmer Castle's lost pleasure grounds Apr 25, 2019

A £2.3 million project called ‘Re-discovering Walmer’s Lost Pleasure Grounds’ has enabled us to restore two previously inaccessible areas of the award-winning gardens at Walmer Castle in Kent.

Presenter Charles Rowe heads down to this Tudor fortress in Kent to meet senior properties historian Paul Pattison and head gardener Mark Brent to discover the story of the castle and its gardens, and find out what visitors can expect to see when the project is completed in the coming weeks.

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Episode 3 - The origins of myths, legends and folklore Apr 18, 2019

This year English Heritage is celebrating the myths, legends and folklore connected to our properties, but where did these stories originate and how do they become rooted in the history of places?

We interview leading expert Professor Ronald Hutton to discover the key elements of a really good myth, legend or folktale, how these stories endure and why there has recently been a resurgence of mythology in popular culture.

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Episode 2 - Setting a date for Easter – the Synod of Whitby Apr 11, 2019

This week we interview senior properties historian Michael Carter to find out about Whitby Abbey’s role in setting the date for Easter celebrations, why it was selected to host the Synod and the wider significance of that decision. Following the completion of a £1.6 million project to transform Whitby Abbey’s visitor centre and museum, we also discover what visitors can find during a trip to the abbey today.

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Episode 1 - Victoria and Albert’s birthdays at Osborne Apr 04, 2019

One of the most important anniversaries we are celebrating this year is the 200th anniversary of the birth of both Queen Victoria (24 May, 1819) and Prince Albert (26 August, 1819).

In this launch episode of the podcast, presenter Charles Rowe interviews art curator Michael Hunter at Osborne, the royal couple’s beloved former holiday home on the Isle of Wight, to find out how they celebrated their birthdays here, the gifts they gave to each other, and the new exhibition and trail planned to honour the occasion.

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