British History Podcast

In this engaging conversation, historian Dr. Lauren Mackay discusses the life and legacy of Thomas Boleyn, father of Anne Boleyn. Lauren, who completed her PhD on Thomas Boleyn, in 2018, challenges the negative perceptions surrounding Thomas Boleyn, highlighting his significant role in Tudor diplomacy and the importance he put on his daughter's education. The discussion delves into the complexities of Tudor family dynamics, the relationship between Thomas Boleyn and Eustace Chapuys, and Thomas Wolsey, and the impact of societal biases on historical narratives. Lauren provides a fresh perspective on a figure often overshadowed by his daughter's legacy and emphasises the importance of reassessing historical figures in light of new evidence and interpretations.You can find Lauren on Instagram: laurenmackay_c16th, X: Regina_Saba and www.laurenmackay.co.ukBuy Lauren's books, shipped worldwide, from Blackwells - https://www.blackwells.co.uk?a_aid=PhilippaB (This is an affiliate link. I get a commission on books sold via this link but they are at no extra cost to you).Hi! I'm Philippa, welcome to the British History Channel.Thank you for listening to this episode, I hope you enjoyed it. There are many more here for you to browse through including over 40 fantastic historian interviews with people such as Tracy Borman OBE, Gareth Russell, Helen Carr and many more. Buy books from these incredible historians, shipped worldwide from Blackwells - https://www.blackwells.co.uk?a_aid=PhilippaB (Please cut and past this affiliate link. I get a commission on books sold via this link but they are at no extra cost to you).If you're not already, please subscribe to this podcast and leave a review.Want more British History and more contact with me? Join at www.Patreon.com/BritishHistory to enjoy Historical Book Club, early access to content, exclusive blogs, discounts on British History Events and take part in Book Club! All for £5/month.You can also give me one off support by donating at www.buymeacoffee.com/PhilippaYou can always support me for free by subscribing, liking, commenting and sharing my videos.Receive weekly history news from me by subscribing to my Substack at https://philippab.substack.com/Visit https://www.BritishHistoryTours.com for full details of history tours and events.⚔️⚔️⚔️⚔️⚔️About PhilippaPhilippa is a Historian and History Event OrganiserPhilippa Lacey Brewell lives in Central England and is well respected in her field as a historian and tour guide. She is the owner and founder of British History Tours, a tour company for those who love British History.Philippa entertains thousands each week with her videos and stories from across the UK and British History. This ability to engage an audience, as well as being an expert in traveling the historical sites of the UK, makes her your perfect guide.I'd really appreciate your help in making this show the best it can be. I know time is precious but if you do have 10 minutes you can spare to fill out this anonymous listener survey, I'd be really grateful - http://bit.ly/britishhistorypodcast-surveyPhilippa founded award-winning Historic Tour Operator British History Tours in 2014. Find out about these luxury, fully-escorted, immersive historical experiences at BritishHistoryTours.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I sat down with historian and author Gareth Russell at Harvington History Festival to talk about an aspect of his new biography of James I of England/VI of Scotland, "Queen James" which is less discussed, and that is James's views on Witchcraft! I asked Gareth about James's transformation from a skeptic to a fervent believer in witchcraft and back again! The conversation touched on the significance of James's 'Demonology' and the lasting impact of his decisions on society.We also discussed the success so far of Gareth's book "Queen James: The Life and Loves of Britain's First King" and the reason behind the title change for the US and Canadian markets.Chapters00:00 From Skeptic to Cheerleader: The Transformation of James06:04 Queen James: The Controversial Nickname and Its Implications12:37 Witchcraft and Demonology: James's Evolving Beliefs16:32 Exploring Scotland: The Legacy of James and His InfluenceHi! I'm Philippa, welcome to the British History Channel. Thank you for listening to this episode, I hope you enjoyed it. There are many more here for you to browse through including over 40 fantastic historian interviews with people such as Tracy Borman OBE, Gareth Russell, Helen Carr and many more. Buy books from these incredible historians, shipped worldwide from Blackwells - https://www.blackwells.co.uk?a_aid=PhilippaB (This is an affiliate link. I get a commission on books sold via this link but they are at no extra cost to you).If you're not already, please subscribe to this podcast and/or the accompanying Youtube channel @BritishHistory.Want more British History and more contact with me? Join at www.Patreon.com/BritishHistory to enjoy Historical Book Club, early access to content, exclusive blogs, discounts on British History Events and take part in Book Club! All for £5/month.You can also give me one off support by donating at www.buymeacoffee.com/PhilippaYou can always support me for free by subscribing, liking, commenting and sharing my videos.Receive weekly history news from me by subscribing to my Substack at https://philippab.substack.com/ Visit https://www.BritishHistoryTours.com for full details of history tours and events.⚔️⚔️⚔️⚔️⚔️About PhilippaPhilippa is a Historian and History Event OrganiserPhilippa Lacey Brewell lives in Central England and is well respected in her field as a historian and tour guide. She is the owner and founder of British History Tours, a tour company for those who love British History.Philippa entertains thousands each week with her videos and stories from across the UK and British History. This ability to engage an audience, as well as being an expert in traveling the historical sites of the UK, makes her your perfect guide.KeywordsJames I, Queen James, demonology, witchcraft, history, Scotland, monarchy, transformation, witch hunts, historical biographyI'd really appreciate your help in making this show the best it can be. I know time is precious but if you do have 10 minutes you can spare to fill out this anonymous listener survey, I'd be really grateful - http://bit.ly/britishhistorypodcast-surveyPhilippa founded award-winning Historic Tour Operator British History Tours in 2014. Find out about these luxury, fully-escorted, immersive historical experiences at BritishHistoryTours.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Diarmuid MacCulloch, Emeritus Professor of the History of the Church at the University of Oxford, historian, author and presenter, joined me at the Harvington History Festival where we talked about the complexities of Christian theology regarding sex, marriage, and women's roles throughout history. He talked about the evolution of beliefs from the early church to the Protestant Reformation, emphasising the contradictions and changes in perspectives on celibacy, marriage, and the treatment of women within the church. The discussion also touches on the historical context of marriage ceremonies and the impact of misogyny on women's history.Chapters00:00 The Evolution of Christian Theology on Sex07:01 Marriage and Its Historical Context13:48 Misogyny and Women's Roles in ChristianityHi! I'm Philippa, welcome to the British History Channel.Thank you for listening to this episode, I hope you enjoyed it. There are many more here for you to browse through including over 40 fantastic historian interviews with people such as Tracy Borman OBE, Gareth Russell, Helen Carr and many more. Buy books from these incredible historians, shipped worldwide from Blackwells - https://www.blackwells.co.uk?a_aid=PhilippaB (Please cut and past this affiliate link. I get a commission on books sold via this link but they are at no extra cost to you).If you're not already, please subscribe to this podcast and leave a review.Want more British History and more contact with me? Join at www.Patreon.com/BritishHistory to enjoy Historical Book Club, early access to content, exclusive blogs, discounts on British History Events and take part in Book Club! All for £5/month.You can also give me one off support by donating at www.buymeacoffee.com/PhilippaYou can always support me for free by subscribing, liking, commenting and sharing my videos.Receive weekly history news from me by subscribing to my Substack at https://philippab.substack.com/Visit https://www.BritishHistoryTours.com for full details of history tours and events.⚔️⚔️⚔️⚔️⚔️About PhilippaPhilippa is a Historian and History Event OrganiserPhilippa Lacey Brewell lives in Central England and is well respected in her field as a historian and tour guide. She is the owner and founder of British History Tours, a tour company for those who love British History.Philippa entertains thousands each week with her videos and stories from across the UK and British History. This ability to engage an audience, as well as being an expert in traveling the historical sites of the UK, makes her your perfect guide.I'd really appreciate your help in making this show the best it can be. I know time is precious but if you do have 10 minutes you can spare to fill out this anonymous listener survey, I'd be really grateful - http://bit.ly/britishhistorypodcast-surveyPhilippa founded award-winning Historic Tour Operator British History Tours in 2014. Find out about these luxury, fully-escorted, immersive historical experiences at BritishHistoryTours.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In conversation with Philippa Lacey, Dr Elizabeth Norton and Professor Stephen Alford discuss the ineptitude of the Gunpowder plotters, the societal perceptions of the event, and the potential alternate histories had the plot succeeded. They emphasise the lack of a coherent plan for governance post-explosion and the subsequent ramifications for Catholics in England.Chapters00:00 Understanding the Gunpowder Plot09:35 Consequences of the Plot14:36 Speculations on Alternate HistoriesBuy books from these incredible historians, shipped worldwide from Blackwells - https://www.blackwells.co.uk?a_aid=PhilippaB (This is an affiliate link. I get a commission on books sold via this link but they are at no extra cost to you).You can watch this episode on Youtube - click hereI'd really appreciate your help in making this show the best it can be. I know time is precious but if you do have 10 minutes you can spare to fill out this anonymous listener survey, I'd be really grateful - http://bit.ly/britishhistorypodcast-surveyPhilippa founded award-winning Historic Tour Operator British History Tours in 2014. Find out about these luxury, fully-escorted, immersive historical experiences at BritishHistoryTours.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Phil’s 48 hours in a Priest HideHarvington Hall Manager, Phil Downing, is spending 48 hours in a priest hide, to raise money toward the upkeep of the Hall. .The Priest Hide Phil will be spending 2 whole days in, is one of, if not, the most famous in the country - the swinging beam hide in Dr Dodds Library. It is thought to have been built by master carpenter Nicolas Owen (who died under torture at the Tower of London following his capture by priest hunters at nearby Hindlip Hall in 1606). .Phil is in no danger from priest hunters but it’s a nonetheless gruelling endeavour, and one which he was visibly nervous about in the final hours before it began..In my interview with him, just a couple of hours before he entered the priest hide, he talked about his experiences of doing this before, once for 24 hours and a second time for 36 - he also swears this will be the last time (we shall see)! What is not in doubt is Phil’s love for Harvington Hall and his determination to see it well looked after during his stewardship..If you are able, and wish to donate to Harvington Hall and show Phil your support please visit https://harvingtonhall.co.uk/donate/ ...#history #historichouses #harvingtonhall #charity I'd really appreciate your help in making this show the best it can be. I know time is precious but if you do have 10 minutes you can spare to fill out this anonymous listener survey, I'd be really grateful - http://bit.ly/britishhistorypodcast-surveyPhilippa founded award-winning Historic Tour Operator British History Tours in 2014. Find out about these luxury, fully-escorted, immersive historical experiences at BritishHistoryTours.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

My conversation with Prof Nadine Akkerman and Dr Pete Lagman explores the fascinating world of espionage during the early modern period, focusing on the often-overlooked contributions of women spies and the evolution of spycraft techniques. The speakers discuss the historical context of espionage, the necessity for such practices, and the innovative methods employed by spies, including the use of invisible ink and complex ciphers. They highlight the challenges faced by early modern spies and the importance of recognising women's roles in this field.You can buy 'Spycraft' from all good bookstores and from Blackwells, who ship worldwide at https://www.blackwells.co.uk?a_aid=PhilippaB (This is an affiliate link. I get a commission on books sold via this link but they are at no extra cost to you).Chapters00:00 The Role of Women in Espionage02:50 The Evolution of Spycraft in the Early Modern Period05:53 Techniques and Technologies of Espionage08:39 The Complexity of Early Modern Ciphers11:49 Invisible Agents: Women in Espionage14:12 Conclusion and ResourcesI'd really appreciate your help in making this show the best it can be. I know time is precious but if you do have 10 minutes you can spare to fill out this anonymous listener survey, I'd be really grateful - http://bit.ly/britishhistorypodcast-surveyPhilippa founded award-winning Historic Tour Operator British History Tours in 2014. Find out about these luxury, fully-escorted, immersive historical experiences at BritishHistoryTours.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oldest pub? Secret passageways? Spiral staircases oriented for sword fighting? SPOILER, they're not!Dr James Wright, author of 'Historic Building MythbustingUncovering Folklore, History and Archaeology' joined me before his talk at Harvington History Festival, to discuss common myths and folklore associated with old buildings, why they developed and what they tell us about the people who told them and believed them.You can buy James's book and get it shipped worldwide, from Blackwells - click here (This is an affiliate link. I get a commission on books sold via this link but they are at no extra cost to you).You can also watch this episode on Youtube at Youtube.com/@BritishHistoryI'd really appreciate your help in making this show the best it can be. I know time is precious but if you do have 10 minutes you can spare to fill out this anonymous listener survey, I'd be really grateful - http://bit.ly/britishhistorypodcast-surveyPhilippa founded award-winning Historic Tour Operator British History Tours in 2014. Find out about these luxury, fully-escorted, immersive historical experiences at BritishHistoryTours.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Usurpation or action against a tyrant? Eminent historian Helen Castor joins me to discuss Richard II and the cousin who usurped him, Henry Bolingbroke, at Harvington History Festival 2025.Buy Helen's book 'The Eagle and The Hart. The Tragedy of Richard II and Henry IV' or any of her other excellent books, and get them shipped worldwide for free, from Blackwells.https://www.blackwells.co.uk?a_aid=PhilippaBHi! I'm Philippa, welcome to the British History Channel.Thank you for watching this video, I hope you enjoyed it. There are many more here for you to browse through including almost 50 fantastic historian interviews with people such as Tracy Borman OBE, Gareth Russell, Helen Carr and many more. Buy books from these incredible historians, shipped worldwide from Blackwells - https://www.blackwells.co.uk?a_aid=PhilippaB (This is an affiliate link. I get a commission on books sold via this link but they are at no extra cost to you).I'd really appreciate your help in making this show the best it can be. I know time is precious but if you do have 10 minutes you can spare to fill out this anonymous listener survey, I'd be really grateful - http://bit.ly/britishhistorypodcast-surveyPhilippa founded award-winning Historic Tour Operator British History Tours in 2014. Find out about these luxury, fully-escorted, immersive historical experiences at BritishHistoryTours.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hi! I'm Philippa, welcome to the British History Channel. Pop this on to keep you company for nearly 3 hours with Niall Devitt, in conversation with Philippa Lacey, as he talks about the London Underground, a product of Victorian engineering, has a rich history. Early experiences were marked by both fear and fascination, driven by the technological innovations that shaped its development. Despite facing significant challenges during its construction phases, the Underground’s public perception evolved over time, reflecting societal changes. Financial struggles plagued it from its inception to the present day, but the integration of various transport systems was a key focus for improving efficiency. Influential figures like Brunel played a pivotal role in shaping London’s transport future. The Underground’s impact on urban development is still felt today, and understanding its history provides insights into modern public transport systems. It is intertwined with major historical events, such as World War I, which significantly increased its usage. Effective marketing and branding were crucial for its success, while Frank Pick’s vision transformed its design and functionality. Leadership played a vital role in its development and success, and it served as a shelter during both World Wars. Post-war challenges led to innovations in its operations. The Underground’s design reflects a blend of art and functionality, shaping London’s suburbs and urban development. Its legacy continues to influence modern transportation systems.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene07:27 Education and Historical Interests11:37 The Birth of the Underground16:19 The Impact of Railways on London21:43 Challenges of Urban Development and Transportation27:10 Victorian Innovations in Public Health and Transport31:50 Challenges of Building the Underground37:13 The Birth of the Metropolitan Railway44:11 NIMBYism and the Struggles of Expansion51:34 The Shift to Electric Power in Transport58:10 The Launch of the City and South London Railway01:05:50 The Impact of American Technology on the Tube01:11:49 The Role of Key Figures in Underground Development01:20:01 Public Ownership and the Future of the Underground01:36:27 The Resilience of the Metropolitan Railway01:42:32 The Birth of London Passenger Transport Board01:48:24 Profitability and the Metropolitan Railway's Land Strategy02:03:10 The Underground as a Shelter: Historical Context02:10:41 Preparing for War: The Evacuation Scheme02:15:47 The Underground as a Shelter: Challenges and Solutions02:20:38 Cultural Resilience: Entertainment and Community in the Underground02:27:39 Tragedy and Mismanagement: The Bethnal Green Disaster02:32:54 The Evolution of the Underground: From Decline to Revival02:45:29 Farewell Thank you for listening, I hope you enjoyed it. There are many more here for you to browse through here, and on my Youtube channel where you can watch them as well - Youtube.com/@BritishHistoryIf you're not already, please subscribe and leave a review to help spread the word :-) Want more British History and more contact with me? Join at www.Patreon.com/BritishHistory to enjoy Historical Book Club, early access to content, exclusive blogs, discounts on British History Events and take part in Book Club! All for £5/month.London Underground, history, transport, Victorian era, engineering, technology, public transport, urban development, historical significance, cultural impact, London Underground, history, transportation, World War I, World War II, branding, design, Frank Pick, public transport, marketingI'd really appreciate your help in making this show the best it can be. I know time is precious but if you do have 10 minutes you can spare to fill out this anonymous listener survey, I'd be really grateful - http://bit.ly/britishhistorypodcast-surveyPhilippa founded award-winning Historic Tour Operator British History Tours in 2014. Find out about these luxury, fully-escorted, immersive historical experiences at BritishHistoryTours.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I'm joined by historians Andrea Zuvich, Erica Canela, and Mark Turnbull to talk about the upcoming Stuart History Festival, their motivations for organising the festival, the diverse topics and speakers involved, and the significance of the 17th century in history. We also talked about the venue in Worcester notable for its historical relevance, and the practical details about the festival are shared, including dates and ticketing options.Festival Tickets for in person and online are available at: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/thestuarthistoryfestivalSummary● The Stuart History Festival aims to highlight the often-overlooked 17th century.● The festival features a diverse lineup of speakers covering various topics.● There is a growing interest in the Stuart period among historians and the public.● The venue, Worcester, has significant historical ties to the 17th century.● New research is challenging misconceptions about the 17th century.● The festival will tackle myths surrounding the Quakers and their history.● Attendees will have opportunities for book signings with authors.● The festival will be accessible online for a global audience.● The organisers emphasise the importance of supporting local businesses.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Stuart History Festival02:55 Motivation Behind the Festival05:35 Topics and Speakers at the Festival11:21 Exploring the Venue: Worcester's Historical Significance16:51 Festival Details and Community Engagement#StuartHistory, #17thcentury, #history, #Quakers, #civilwars, #Worcestershire, #historicalevents, #speakers, #misconceptions, #researchI'd really appreciate your help in making this show the best it can be. I know time is precious but if you do have 10 minutes you can spare to fill out this anonymous listener survey, I'd be really grateful - http://bit.ly/britishhistorypodcast-surveyPhilippa founded award-winning Historic Tour Operator British History Tours in 2014. Find out about these luxury, fully-escorted, immersive historical experiences at BritishHistoryTours.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hi! I'm Philippa, welcome to the British History Channel. In this episode I sat down with Emma Miller of Grimsthorpe Castle to talk about its history, the famous people who have lived and visited here and a very curious window/door which, legend has it, was made for Henry VIII's visit in 1541.I will be here in September 2025, alongside Gareth Russell for 'The Catherine Howard Tour,' run by British History Tours, as we trace the journey of Catherine Howard and Henry VIII as they make their progress north, in 1541. I'd really appreciate your help in making this show the best it can be. I know time is precious but if you do have 10 minutes you can spare to fill out this anonymous listener survey, I'd be really grateful - http://bit.ly/britishhistorypodcast-surveyPhilippa founded award-winning Historic Tour Operator British History Tours in 2014. Find out about these luxury, fully-escorted, immersive historical experiences at BritishHistoryTours.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This interview with Dr Owen Emmerson, Assistant Curator at Hever Castle, about the 'Two Anne's of Hever', Anne Boleyn and Anne of Cleves was recorded in 2021 but has been available to members only, up until now.Dr Emmerson is a historian, author and broadcaster and can be found on his Instagram page @DrOwenEmmersonThis is also available, along with almost 50 other historian interviews, at Youtube.com/@BritishHistory - look for the "Historian Interviews' playlist.I'd really appreciate your help in making this show the best it can be. I know time is precious but if you do have 10 minutes you can spare to fill out this anonymous listener survey, I'd be really grateful - http://bit.ly/britishhistorypodcast-surveyPhilippa founded award-winning Historic Tour Operator British History Tours in 2014. Find out about these luxury, fully-escorted, immersive historical experiences at BritishHistoryTours.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Luke Pepera, historian, anthropologist, broadcaster and author of the brilliant new book ‘Motherland: A Journey through 500,000 years of African Culture and Identity' joined me at the Gloucester History Festival Spring Weekend for a fascinating chat!You can find the video version on Youtube.com/BritishHistoryI'd really appreciate your help in making this show the best it can be. I know time is precious but if you do have 10 minutes you can spare to fill out this anonymous listener survey, I'd be really grateful - http://bit.ly/britishhistorypodcast-surveyPhilippa founded award-winning Historic Tour Operator British History Tours in 2014. Find out about these luxury, fully-escorted, immersive historical experiences at BritishHistoryTours.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Edward II was murdered at Berkeley Castle in 1327 and buried in Gloucester Abbey (now Cathedral), and the only area of debate so far has been how he was murdered; smothered or red hot poker? Ian Mortimer has gathered compelling evidence that Edward wasn't actually murdered at all! Welcome to this interview with historian and author Ian Mortimer in which Ian does not only challenge that Edward II was murdered but what he sees as the reasons the compelling evidence has been ignored by academics for so long. Ian is the author of multiple history books and is perhaps most famous for his 'Time travellers Guides.' Buy Ian's book, shipped worldwide from Blackwells. (This is an affiliate link. I get a commission on books sold via this link but they are at no extra cost to you).This is 1 of 5 interviews I recorded at the Gloucester History Festival Spring Weekend. Tickets for the weekend’s live-streamed talks are available until 25th May. Click HereBritish History is a reader-supported publication. To support my work and help me develop new projects, please consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.See you next time!Philippa 💜 This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit philippab.substack.com/subscribeI'd really appreciate your help in making this show the best it can be. I know time is precious but if you do have 10 minutes you can spare to fill out this anonymous listener survey, I'd be really grateful - http://bit.ly/britishhistorypodcast-surveyPhilippa founded award-winning Historic Tour Operator British History Tours in 2014. Find out about these luxury, fully-escorted, immersive historical experiences at BritishHistoryTours.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

19 years of Civil War, known as the Anarchy, was between first cousins King Stephen and Empress Matilda, but Sharon Bennett Connolly persuasively argues that it could be more accurately be thought of as a conflict between Queen Matilda, Stephen's wife and the Empress Matilda.I caught up with Sharon for her second interview with me, and oour first in person, at the Gloucester History Festival Spring Weekend.British History is a reader-supported publication. To support my work and help me continue to get more brilliant interviews with fascinating historians, please consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Until next time, Philippa 💜 This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit philippab.substack.com/subscribeI'd really appreciate your help in making this show the best it can be. I know time is precious but if you do have 10 minutes you can spare to fill out this anonymous listener survey, I'd be really grateful - http://bit.ly/britishhistorypodcast-surveyPhilippa founded award-winning Historic Tour Operator British History Tours in 2014. Find out about these luxury, fully-escorted, immersive historical experiences at BritishHistoryTours.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.