London History

Episode 139: Downing Street — A Microcosm of LondonStep down one of the world’s most famous addresses. Downing Street isn’t just the seat of power; it reflects London’s history, politics, and social change. Discover the stories that shaped a nation from this iconic street.

This episode reveals London's hidden connections to some of the most remote places on Earth – from the icy fjords of Spitsbergen to the vast Southern Ocean. Discover how whale hunting shaped everything from street lighting to women's fashion, and why this brutal yet economically vital trade ultimately came to define London's position as a global maritime power.Perfect for listeners interested in: Maritime history, London's hidden past, Arctic exploration, industrial history, Victorian society, fashion history, and the complex relationship between commerce and conservation.

The Remarkable Story Behind the World's First Underwater Tunnel | London History Podcast Ep. 137In episode 137 of the London History Podcast, join host Hazel Baker and guest Katherine MacAlpine, Director of the Brunel Museum, as they delve into the fascinating history of the world's first tunnel under a river - the Thames Tunnel. Built by the pioneering father-son duo Marc and Isambard Kingdom Brunel in the Victorian era, this podcast explores the challenges, innovations, and engineering genius that made this groundbreaking project possible. Learn about the tunnel's construction, its transformation into a pedestrian foot tunnel and later a railway tunnel, and the legacy of the Brunel family. Discover artifacts, stories, and the impact of this historic achievement on modern engineering. Don't miss out on exclusive glimpses into the Brunel Museum's exhibits, including Mark Brunel's personal items and the intriguing events surrounding the Thames Tunnel.00:00 Introduction to the London History Podcast00:43 The Brunel Family and the Thames Tunnel01:58 Challenges and Innovations in Tunnel Construction05:43 Financial Struggles and Public Perception23:44 The Tunnel's Legacy and Modern Impact31:02 Upcoming Exhibitions and Events at the Brunel Museum34:05 Conclusion and Special OfferMore content at https://londonguidedwalks.co.uk/podcast

🎙️ London's Printing Revolution & the Birth of Children's Literature | The London History PodcastJoin Hazel Baker for a fascinating journey through 1740s London, a city alive with ink, ambition, and innovation. In this episode of The London History Podcast, we uncover how a tiny chapbook, Tommy Thumb’s Pretty Song Book, helped transform childhood reading – and how a widowed woman publisher, Mary Cooper, quietly reshaped literary history from her shop on Paternoster Row.📚 Discover:The buzz of London’s book trade around St Paul’s CathedralThe Statute of Anne and how it revolutionised copyrightMary Cooper and Thomas Longman – trailblazers of modern publishingThe engraving artistry of George Bickham the YoungerWhat was inside Tommy Thumb’s Pretty Song Book – and what was lostWhy only two copies of the book are known to surviveHow nursery rhymes travelled from street cries to storybooksThe hidden role of women in the eighteenth-century print tradeThis episode is packed with rich detail – from political tensions of the Jacobite rising to the changing face of children’s literature, and from the smells of damp paper to the sound of rhymes still sung today.🎧 Whether you are a book lover, historian, educator, or simply curious about the untold stories behind everyday culture, this episode will leave you seeing nursery rhymes – and London itself – in a whole new light.🔔 Subscribe to never miss an episode💬 Share with someone who loves history, literature, or London🌐 Find bonus content at: https://londonguidedwalks.co.uk/podcast

Who was William Beckford, and why does his name still spark debate today? Born in Jamaica in 1709, Beckford became one of the wealthiest men in Britain through sugar plantations powered by enslaved labour. Twice elected Lord Mayor of London, he was a towering political figure in Georgian society—renowned for his opulent lifestyle and his bold speech to King George III in 1770.In this episode of the London History Podcast, we uncover the life and legacy of William Beckford, exploring his rise to power, his deep ties to the transatlantic slave economy, and the impact of colonial wealth on the City of London. We ask: how did Beckford shape London’s political and cultural life, and why does his story matter today?Join us as we examine the complicated history behind one of the most influential—and controversial—figures of 18th-century London.

Welcome to the London History Podcast. In this episode, we journey through the cobbled streets of Victorian London, where the sound of barrel organs and the chatter of Italian voices once filled the air. Join Hazel Baker as she uncovers the remarkable story of Little Italy—a vibrant immigrant enclave in Clerkenwell, shaped by migration, resilience, and transformation. We’ll walk the lanes immortalised by Dickens, meet the artisans and street musicians who brought the city to life, and explore how their music became the soundtrack of London’s streets. From the crowded workshops of Eyre Street Hill to the legal battles over street music, this is a tale of hope, hardship, and the indelible mark left by London’s Italian community. Tune in for Episode 134: Organ Grinders of Little Italy For all other episodes visit London Guided Walks

In our forthcoming podcast episode, we're joined by the distinguished James McVinnie to delve into the fascinating world of organ music, marking the 70th anniversary of the Royal Festival Hall organ. McVinnie will discuss the instrument's significant historical impact and its role in the evolution of organ music in London and further afield. We'll explore how the organ, conceived in the post-war era, reflects the cultural shifts of its time through the vision of Ralph Downes. Our guest is James McVinnie, known for his broad repertoire that ranges from early organ music to contemporary compositions by Nico Muhly and Tristan Perich, will share how he navigates the vast musical landscapes of different eras in his performances. The discussion will also touch on "Infinity Gradient" by Perich, an innovative piece that reimagines the organ's potential in synthesis and music, potentially setting the direction for the instrument's future. As McVinnie travels performing across the globe, he plays an increasingly important role in redefining the organ as an instrument of both historical depth and modern relevance. Looking ahead, he'll share his vision for the organ's future and how he aims to contribute to its ongoing evolution. Finally, McVinnie will offer invaluable advice for young musicians interested in exploring the organ and its possibilities in contemporary music. Join us for an engaging journey into the heart of organ music with one of its most forward-thinking performers.

In today's episode, we're journeying back to the turn of the 20th century, to a time when the streets of London and beyond were stages for one of the most significant campaigns in the fight for women's rights: the battle for the right to vote. https://londonguidedwalks.co.uk/podcast/episode-132-suffragetteor-suffragist/

Welcome to our exploration of one of London's most extraordinary chapters from the First World War: the story of Endell Street Military Hospital, a groundbreaking institution that was not only at the forefront of medical innovation but also a testament to the indomitable spirit and resilience of women. Founded in 1915, amidst the chaos of a world at war, Endell Street stood out for being entirely run by women, from its surgeons to its orderlies. This was at a time when the medical profession was almost exclusively male-dominated, making the hospital a radical experiment in both medicine and gender equality.

Join us as we journey through time with seasoned Mudlarker Anna Borzello, uncovering the stories embedded in the mud of the Thames and celebrating the enduring legacy of London's past inhabitants. Through her discoveries, we are reminded of the power of material culture to bridge the gap between past and present, offering us an intimate glimpse into the lives of those who walked the streets of London centuries ago. In our conversation with Anna Borzello, we will delve into the significance of these finds and explore how mudlarking serves as a unique form of historical investigation, connecting us with the physical remnants of the past. Her insights will undoubtedly enrich our understanding of 17th-century London, illuminating the lives of its people in a way that resonates with both historians and the public alike.

In this captivating podcast episode, Hazel Baker and guest Maggie Coates take listeners on a journey through the hidden gem of Two Temple Place.  Maggie Coates, a Camden tour guide and a volunteer at Two Temple Place, shares insights into its Victorian origins and its owner, William Waldorf Astor. Astor's vision for the building, nestled among larger structures near Middle Temple, reflects both secrecy and security, evident in features such as a basement vault and strong rooms. Listeners gain insight into the meticulous preservation efforts undertaken by successive custodians, ensuring the building's historical fabric remains intact. From its use as an office building to its role as a venue for private functions, weddings, and even filming locations, Two Temple Place continues to enchant visitors with its rich history and architectural grandeur. Listen Now:

Nestled in the heart of London, St. James's Palace is a place of profound historical significance, where centuries of tradition, grandeur, and intrigue have woven a rich tapestry. As we venture within its hallowed halls and uncover its hidden secrets, we will unravel the captivating history that has unfolded within these venerable walls. Join us for the latest fact-filled episode. Listen now>>

In this episode, we're diving into the bustling, fog-laden streets of Victorian London, a city of stark contrasts and enduring charm, as portrayed in the timeless works of Charles Dickens. Our story centers around Archie, a young orphan navigating the complexities of life in 1843 London – a city that, much like the characters in Dickens' novels, is filled with both hardship and hope. As we follow Archie's journey, we'll explore the sights, sounds, and social fabric of a city in the throes of the Industrial Revolution and grapple with the same societal issues that inspired Dickens' most famous works. This episode promises to be a blend of historical fact, literary exploration, and vivid storytelling, providing a unique lens through which to view one of the world's most famous cities. So whether you're a history buff, a Dickens enthusiast, or just love a good story, join us as we traverse the cobbled streets and foggy alleyways of Dickens' London through the eyes of Archie. Get ready to step back in time and experience the city as never before. Let's begin Episode 127: "Archie's Journey Through Dickens' London."

Join us as we embark on a thought-provoking journey through the pages of London's history, exploring the Transatlantic Slave Trade and the role that London played.

Welcome to Episode 125 of the London History Podcast, where we continue to unravel the rich and complex tapestry of London's past. Today, we delve into a chapter that's as intriguing as it is steeped in mystery and speculation — the intertwined stories of Elizabeth I and Robert Dudley, set against the imposing backdrop of the Tower of London.

Welcome to episode 124 of the London History Podcast. I'm Hazel, your navigator through the winding lanes of London's rich tapestry of time. Today, we're peeling back the layers of history in one of Chelsea's most renowned streets — Tite Street with City of Westminster tour guide Dr Stephen King. A street synonymous with cultural luminaries and architectural beauty, Tite Street is a prism through which we can explore the artistic soul of Chelsea. Once the stomping ground for the likes of Oscar Wilde and James McNeill Whistler, Tite Street has long been a magnet for those who dare to dream and dare to disrupt the status quo. In this episode, we'll amble through the Victorian era when Tite Street became the epicentre of an aesthetic revolution, housing a tapestry of artists and thinkers who would leave an indelible mark on the art world. We'll discover the hidden narratives of the street's residents, the stories behind the iconic facades, and the spirit of a community that thrived on creativity and rebellion. So, whether you're a lifelong Londoner or an admirer of history from afar, join us as we take a journey down the cobblestones of Tite Street and unravel the stories that have made it an enduring emblem of London's artistic heritage. Let's step back in time together on the London History Podcast. https://londonguidedwalks.co.uk/podcast/

Hello and welcome to Episode 123 of the London History Podcast. Today, we're unwrapping the layers of one of the capital's most enduring pageants — the Lord Mayor's Show. With a heritage that dates back over eight centuries, this splendid cavalcade of pageantry wends its way through the heart of the City of London, a vibrant thread woven into the fabric of our urban story. As we cast our minds back across the years, we'll delve into the origins of this annual spectacle, where the streets of London come alive with a dazzling array of floats, music, and revelry. We'll recount tales of the Show's evolution from medieval processions to the magnificent display of today, and explore its significance in reflecting and shaping the identity of the City. So, join us as we journey through time, exploring the pomp, circumstance, and history of the Lord Mayor's Show — an event that captures the imagination and celebrates the spirit of London in grand style. Stay tuned as we lift the curtain on this illustrious tradition right here on the London History Podcast.

Welcome to Episode 122 of our riveting podcast series, where we delve deep into the mysteries and stories that make London such an endlessly captivating city. Today, we turn our focus to something quite intriguing yet unsettling: the haunted underground stations of London's Tube network. These are not merely tales to entertain or amuse; they are accounts that have perplexed commuters, underground staff, and even seasoned researchers who've spent years delving into London's urban legends and folklore. If you've ever felt a cold shiver run down your spine as your train rolled into an eerily quiet station, or sensed an inexplicable presence while waiting on a deserted platform late at night, then this episode will certainly resonate with you. We'll be uncovering stories of apparitions and phantoms, exploring everything from the ghostly figures that roam the platforms to the spectral sounds that reverberate through the tunnels. So sit back, dim the lights if you dare, and join us as we venture into the hauntingly mysterious realm of London's underground. This is an episode that promises to be as enlightening as it is spine-tingling, giving you a whole new perspective on your daily commute. Stay tuned; you're in for an otherworldly journey.

With us today to unravel the life, impact, and ongoing legacy of this incredible woman is none other than Kirstie Shedden, an esteemed London tour guide specialising in 'Suffragettes in Westminster.' Kirstie’s unparalleled expertise and nuanced understanding of this complex era bring a richness to the subject matter that promises to captivate our audience. Annie Kenney was not just a participant in the women's suffrage movement; she was a linchpin, an impassioned activist whose story diverges in fascinating ways from her contemporaries. Born into a working-class background, her activism broke the mould in a movement often associated with the middle and upper classes. Her contributions were neither small nor forgettable; she was a tour de force who navigated arrest, imprisonment, and societal marginalisation while maintaining her staunch commitment to the cause. In today's discussion, we'll traverse the landscape of Annie Kenney's involvement in the Women's Social and Political Union (WSPU), explore the intricacies of her arrests and her resilience during imprisonment, and take a walk through Westminster's very streets where she, and others like her, left an indelible mark. You'll even hear about her correspondences with key figures of her time and the lasting legacy she left behind. Whether you're a history aficionado, a student of social movements, or simply someone curious about the multi-layered history that has shaped modern London, this episode offers a narrative feast that is both educational and enthralling. So, fasten your seatbelts for a journey back in time that is not only enlightening but also incredibly relevant to our understanding of activism, social change, and the women who dared to defy the status quo. Kirstie, a very warm welcome to you; we’re thrilled to have you on the show.

Doctor Who has been a staple of British television and has reached global audiences. To understand the significance of this long-running series is to delve deep into the fabric of British popular culture, exploring themes that transcend mere entertainment. Whether it's the socio-political narratives that have been cleverly woven into its storylines or the imaginative realms it transports us to, Doctor Who has made an indelible impact, not just in the realm of science fiction, but in the broader context of British media. David Turnbull, is our guest for today, brings a wealth of knowledge and insightful analysis. His published works on British television history offer a nuanced perspective, and today he will help us untangle the rich tapestry that makes Doctor Who a cultural phenomenon. We'll explore its beginnings, its pivotal moments, and of course, its enduring appeal. For ardent fans, get ready for a captivating conversation filled with interesting trivia, scholarly discussion, and perhaps a fresh viewpoint on the Time Lord's many adventures. And if you're new to Doctor Who, what better time to get acquainted with this remarkable series than on its 60th anniversary? So, make yourself comfortable, perhaps grab a cuppa, as we embark on a journey through time and space in the heart of London's history, through the lens of the Doctor's ever-astonishing escapades.