Undercurrent Stories The History of the British Country House: Adrian Tinniswood
In this episode, we’re going back in time back to the end of the 19th century and beginning of the 20th century taking a captivating journey into the grandeur, elegance, and daily realities of life in British country houses.
Joining us is Adrian Tinniswood — Adrian is a professorial research fellow in history at the University of Buckingham, adjunct professor of history at Maynooth University, and one of the foremost experts on the history of British country homes. He has authored many books including The Long Weekend, Noble Ambitions and his latest book, The Power and the Glory.
Adrian gives us a front-row seat to life in these magnificent homes — from the glittering dinner parties and opulent furnishings to the strict hierarchies and gruelling schedules of the staff who kept everything running smoothly. What was it really like to live in a country house? And how did these houses evolve through times of prosperity and hardship?
So, grab your afternoon tea and cucumber sandwiches and get ready for a fascinating conversation with Adrian Tinniswood.
Memorable quotes;
- "If it's big and it's posh, it's a country house."
- "Life was actually pretty good for servants."
- “The moment I set foot in Sudbury Hall, I thought—country houses are how I want to spend my life.”
- “We sometimes forget that the reason we save these places is because they’re so damn beautiful. They’re not just history lessons—they drip with joy.”
- “For some, buying a country house was the pot of gold at the end of their rainbow—it gave them access to county society.” – Adrian Tinniswood
Adrian's links:
https://www.instagram.com/adriantinniswood/
Book: The Power and the Glory
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Intro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee' Bob Wells © 2020
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