British History Podcast

Historian and bestselling author Alice Loxton joined Philippa Lacey to talk about her new book, A History of Britain in 21 Paintings. Alice talked about the paintings she chose, the places she travelled to see them, and the stories behind them; including a hidden medieval wall painting, a stolen portrait of the Duke of Wellington, and the National Gallery's wartime hiding place in a Welsh slate quarry. The discussion also went on to talk about why paintings are such a good way into history, and how to find history on your own doorstep.Guest: Alice Loxton, author of 18, Eleanor and A History of Britain in 21 PaintingsChapters00:00 Alice Loxton and A History of Britain in 21 Paintings02:07 Why paintings help us explore history04:29 Art and hidden history across Britain06:49 The stories paintings tell—and the stories they hide11:21 The National Gallery’s wartime hideaway16:13 Finding history close to home19:57 Taking art beyond the gallery28:11 Choosing the book’s 21 paintings35:47 Art, pilgrimage and everyday history40:00 Alice’s hopes for readers and what’s nextLinks and mentionsBonus Q&A with Alice for Patreon members: patreon.com/britishhistoryAlice's BBC podcast: Here for the HistoryOther places mentioned: St Cadoc's Church (nr Newport(, Mappa Mundi (Hereford), Dunmore Pineapple (Scotland).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 this episode, Amy shares her extensive knowledge of the legendary King Arthur, exploring its origins, evolution, and cultural significance across Britain and Europe. Discover how myths are shaped by history, politics, and storytelling traditions, and learn about the places and characters that bring Arthur's legend to life.Watch this episode on Youtube - click hereBuy Amy's Brilliant book - click hereChapters00:00 Introduction to the Legend of Arthur02:04 The Origins of Arthur in Welsh and Breton Sources04:56 The Evolution of Arthur's Legend in Medieval Texts09:57 The Role of Manuscripts and Art in Medieval Storytelling14:56 The Influence of Classical Mythology on Arthurian Legends20:12 Geographical Places and Legends of Arthur25:12 The Political and Cultural Context of Arthur's Stories29:50 The Characters and Lesser-Known Figures in Arthurian Tradition34:53 Modern Reinterpretations and the Enduring Appeal of ArthurIf you've enjoyed this please follow and rate this podcast.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 60 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 - 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).Join my Patreon - click here and enjoy ad-free extended interviews with bonus content, Historical Book Club, early access to content, exclusive blogs, discounts on British History Events and more for all for £5/month.You can also give me one off support by donating at www.buymeacoffee.com/PhilippaYou can support me for free by commenting and rating this episode. Visit British History Tours for full details of history tours and events.⚔️⚔️⚔️⚔️⚔️About PhilippaPhilippa is a Historian and the owner of British History Tours and British History Events.Receive weekly history news (including links to new historian interviews) from Philippa by subscribing to my Substack 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.

Recorded in front of a live audience at the Gloucester History Festival, Philippa took to the stage with Andrew Ziminski, Master Mason and author of the fabulous book, 'Church Going.'As someone who has turned her passion for travelling the historical sites of the UK into a business, a job and a hobby all combined I absolutely delight in visiting churches. They come in all shapes and sizes, ages and more often that not provide the most surprising and interesting finds.I’m fascinated by them because they are such a tangible link to our past; our religious history of course, but also how they were used tells us something about how the community and people that used them.I was delighted to host my own live podcast event at Gloucester History Festival on 14th September 2026.Buy Andrew's book at Blackwells for free worldwide shipping.Thank you for listening to this episode, I hope you enjoyed it. There are many more history videos here for you to watch including over 60 fantastic historian interviews with people such as Tracy Borman OBE, Gareth Russell, Helen Castor, Helen Carr and many more. Join my Patreon to enjoy ad-free, extended interviews with bonus content, Historical Book Club, early access to content, exclusive blogs, discounts on British History Events and more, all for £5/month (£7.50 from 1st January 2027).You can also give me one off support by donating at www.buymeacoffee.com/PhilippaYou can support me for free by commenting on this episode and giving the podcast a 5* review.Visit British History Tours for full details of history tours and events.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 this interview with Dr Joanne Paul, to celebrate the paperback publication of her book 'Thomas More. A Life and Death in Tudor England', we discussed Thomas More's relationship with Erasmus, More's surprisingly scatological response to Luther, his surprising views on Henry VIII's break with Rome and More's imprisonment and execution.There is bonus content available for this interview, at Patreon.com/@BritishHistory where you can also get the ad-free video and audio versions of this interview. Thank you for listening to this episode, I hope you enjoyed it. There are many more historian interviews here for you to watch including over 60 fantastic historian interviews with eminent historians such as Tracy Borman OBE, Gareth Russell, Helen Castor, Helen Carr and many more. Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Thomas More and his significance03:01 Joanne Paul’s background and research journey05:10 More's relationship with Erasmus and their intellectual bond08:00 More's initial response to Luther and the Reformation12:06 The scathing and scatological debate with Luther15:01 Henry VIII's defense of the sacraments and Luther's critique17:07 Henry VIII's break with Rome and More’s opposition21:05 More's resignation as Lord Chancellor and his legal objections23:54 The progression towards More’s arrest and trial26:56 More's imprisonment, conditions, and final days35:58 The trial, execution, and legacy of Thomas More45:00 Joanne Paul’s research surprises and new discoveriesJoin my Patreon to enjoy ad-free, extended interviews with bonus content, Historical Book Club, early access to content, exclusive blogs, discounts on British History Events and more, all for £5/month.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.

Step beyond the myth and into the murky reality of one of Britain’s most infamous figures. In this episode, Philippa is joined by Mat Braddy and Darren Rapier, co-writers of a gripping new audio production, Turpin, which re-examines the life of the legendary highwayman Dick Turpin.Far from the romanticised rider of folklore, Turpin’s true story is darker, more complex, and rooted in the harsh realities of 18th-century England. Together, they discuss the research behind the production, the challenges of separating fact from fiction, and how audio storytelling can bring historical figures vividly—and authentically—to life.If you think you know Dick Turpin, think again.You can also watch this episode on Youtube - click here for youtube.com/BritishHistoryThe production can be found on BigFinish.com now, and will be available on Audible and Spotify from Autumn 2026. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Dick Turpin and the episode's focus22:49 The legend of Dick Turpin and its origins24:53 The role of pubs and secret networks in crime29:58 The myth-making and romanticization of Turpin35:04 Turpin's final years and death39:53 Legacy and how myths are constructedThank you for watching this episode, I hope you enjoyed it. There are many more history videos here for you to watch including over 60 fantastic historian interviews with people such as Tracy Borman OBE, Gareth Russell, Helen Castor, Helen Carr and many more. Join my Patreon to enjoy ad-free, extended interviews with bonus content, Historical Book Club, early access to content, exclusive blogs, discounts on British History Events and more, all for £5/month.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.

The 1381 Peasant's Revolt has gone down in history as the first popular uprising in England, a violent reaction to a new tax, but that is no where near the full story..Historian, author and presenter Matt Lewis (History Hit, the Gone Medieval podcast) joined me at Warwick Words history Festival ahead of his talk about this pivotal moment in history..The website Matt mentioned is https://www.1381.online.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 60 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 - 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).Join my Patreon - click here and enjoy ad-free extended interviews with bonus content, Historical Book Club, early access to content, exclusive blogs, discounts on British History Events and more for all for £5/month.You can also give me one off support by donating at www.buymeacoffee.com/PhilippaYou can support me for free by commenting and rating this episode.  Visit British History Tours for full details of history tours and events.⚔️⚔️⚔️⚔️⚔️About PhilippaPhilippa is a Historian and the owner of British History Tours and British History Events.Receive weekly history news (including links to new historian interviews) from Philippa by subscribing to my Substack 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.

Historian Nathen Amin sat down with me at Warwick Words History Festival before his talk on "The year of the 3 kings, 1483" to discuss Edward IV's lack of forward planning, the course of events which brought Edward V to London and into the Tower, and when Nathen thinks Richard, then Duke of Gloucester, decided he should not just act as Regent for his nephew, but take his crown and become king.Useful timestamps in this episode:00:00 - The significance of 1483: Year of the Three Kings00:14 - Edward IV's reign and sudden death at 4000:57 - Edward IV’s physical transformation and health neglect01:24 - Succession challenges with young princes02:23 - Rival factions: Woodvilles vs. Richard of Gloucester03:17 - Could Edward IV have prepared better for his death?03:54 - The importance of securing the heir in medieval rulership04:23 - Fears of vulnerability when the king is a child05:24 - The influence of male ambitions after Edward IV’s death06:11 - The movement of Edward V and the importance of his return to London06:40 - The importance of the princes’ crowning and the rise of Richard07:10 - The political tension with Lord Hastings and the Woodville family07:40 - Richard’s diplomatic position and the meeting in Northamptonshire08:08 - Elizabeth Woodville’s reaction and her flight into sanctuary09:06 - The decision to move the princes to the Tower09:34 - The arrest of Lord Hastings and the centralization of Richard’s power10:32 - Richard’s assumption of Lord Protector and consolidating authority11:01 - Elizabeth Woodville’s flight and the rising tensions11:31 - The move of the princes into the Tower of London12:28 - The infamous execution of Lord Hastings and Richard’s ruthlessness13:28 - Richard’s strategic moves and the escalation of violence14:27 - Threats to Richard’s power in the North and the Neville lands15:27 - Richard’s swift consolidation of power and the downfall of rivals16:26 - The anonymous sermon condemning the princes and Richard’s rapid rise17:25 - Richard’s strategic decisions and the perception of his ruthlessness18:10 - The debate over the legitimacy of the princes18:49 - Richard’s potential motives about the princes’ legitimacy and accusations19:19 - The evidence (or lack thereof) around the princes’ deaths and legitimacy20:16 - The political context of Richard’s usurpation21:12 - The legitimacy of Richard’s claim and the legitimacy law21:42 - Richard’s legal justifications, including Titulus Regius22:08 - The question of the princes’ legitimacy and Richard’s evidence22:39 - The political manipulation and timing of Richard’s actions23:08 - Richard’s rapid moves and the urgency of power consolidation24:21 - The moral and religious conflict faced by Richard24:48 - Richard’s faith and the justification of ruthless acts25:17 - The medieval kingship and divine justification for harsh decisions25:46 - Parallels with modern leadership and the justifications for tough choices26:09 - Closing remarks and thanksThank you for listening to this episode, I hope you enjoyed it. There are many more history videos here for you to watch including over 60 fantastic historian interviews with people such as Tracy Borman OBE, Gareth Russell, Helen Castor, Helen Carr and many more. Join my Patreon to enjoy ad-free, extended interviews with bonus content, Historical Book Club, early access to content, exclusive blogs, discounts on British History Events and more, all for £5/month.You can also give me one off support by donating at www.buymeacoffee.com/PhilippaYou can support me for free by commenting on this episode and subscribing to the channel. Visit British History Tours for full details of history tours and events.⚔️⚔️⚔️⚔️⚔️About PhilippaPhilippa is a Historian and the founder of British History Tours and British History Events.Receive weekly history news (including links to new historian interviews) from Philippa by subscribing to my Substack at Substack.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.

Over the past few years Mudlarking, the pastime of scouring river banks for archeology, has become incredibly popular both with those who do it, and those who like to watch videos of, of hear about, new finds.Expert Mudlarker, Lara Maiklem joined me at Harvington History Festival where we talked about how tidal rivers become archaeological treasure troves, the challenges mudlarks face, and what incredible relics she has uncovered.Buy Lara's book 'A Mudlarking Year. Finding Treasure in Every Season' - click here.Thank you for listening to this episode, I hope you have enjoyed it. There are many more historian interviews here for you including over 60 fantastic historian interviews with people such as Tracy Borman OBE, Gareth Russell, Helen Castor, Helen Carr and many more. Please give this podcast a follow and a 5* review if you have enjoyed it as it helps the show be suggested to other people interested in history.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 Philippa’s discussion with historian Nicola Tallis about Lady Jane Grey, we covered some of her true story, achievements, and how perceptions have been shaped over time. We explored her intelligence, potential, and the importance of re-evaluating her legacy.This interview is also available to watch on the British History Youtube channel - click hereChapters00:00 Introduction and Book Reflection00:28 Perceptions of Lady Jane Grey01:23 Changing the Victim Narrative02:22 Jane's Intellectual Achievements04:25 Her Languages and Interests06:50 Her Life and Aspirations08:41 The Loss of Potential10:05 What Kind of Queen Would She Have Been?12:30 Reframing Jane's Legacy and RecognitionThank you for listening to this episode, I hope you enjoyed it. There are many more historian interviews for you to enjoy with people such as Tracy Borman OBE, Gareth Russell, Helen Castor, Helen Carr and many more. 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.

Philippa sat down for a fascinating conversation with Ruth Goodman, a living history expert, and author of the ever popular 'How To Be a Tudor', among other books. Ruth explained her approach to living history and casual experimentation to verify historical practices, the importance of practical research in understanding daily routines, how clothing inventories and household tools reveal regional and social differences in historical records, and the role of hearsay, imagery, and disapproval in uncovering the realities of ordinary people's lives.Watch Episode on YoutubeHi! I'm Philippa, welcome to the British History Channel.If you've enjoyed this please follow and rate this podcast. Thank you for listening to this episode, I hope you enjoyed it. There are many more here for you to browse through including over 60 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 - 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).Join my Patreon - click here and enjoy ad-free extended interviews with bonus content, Historical Book Club, early access to content, exclusive blogs, discounts on British History Events and more for all for £5/month.You can also give me one off support by donating at www.buymeacoffee.com/PhilippaYou can support me for free by commenting and rating this episode.  Visit British History Tours for full details of history tours and events.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.