London History

londonguidedwalks.co.uk
undefined
Oct 20, 2023 • 43min

121. Suffragette Annie Kenney

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.
undefined
Oct 13, 2023 • 55min

120. Doctor Who in London

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.
undefined
Oct 5, 2023 • 51min

119. Crystal Palace Football Club: How It Began

Hello and welcome to another episode of the London History Podcast, where we delve into the compelling narratives and stories that have shaped one of the world's most iconic cities.  Now, when one thinks of London, it's often the majestic landmarks, the palaces and the political history that come to mind. But London is also a city deeply entrenched in sporting history.  Today we're setting our sights on something that merges sport, culture, and history in a fascinating way—Crystal Palace Football Club, an institution that was founded in 1861. Joining me in the studio is Stuart Hibberd, author of The first Crystal Palace Football Club 1861-1876 and co-author of three football histories; To the Palace for the Cup, The Centenary History of the Arthur Dunn Cup, and Tottenham Cakes and Bolton Pies! -The story of the 1901 FA Cup.
undefined
Sep 29, 2023 • 31min

118. Francis Barber in Georgian London

Today, we'll be delving into the life of Francis Barber. This tale encapsulates themes of humanity, society, and the complex historical ties that bind London with the wider world. It's a narrative that engages with notions of identity, social mobility, and the human desire for self-determination, set against the backdrop of eighteenth-century London. londonguidedwalks.co.uk/podcast
undefined
Sep 21, 2023 • 36min

117. Eleanor of Aquitaine

Hello and welcome to this week's episode of the London History Podcast. Today, we delve into the fascinating life of a woman who was nothing short of a dynamo in the politics, culture, and society of her era—Eleanor of Aquitaine. To situate you in the rich tapestry of London's history, we must traverse the centuries back to the 12th century, an era teeming with political intrigue, territorial disputes, and colossal figures who left an indelible impact on the course of English history.
undefined
Sep 14, 2023 • 37min

116. Caroline Crachami - The Sicilian Fairy

Greetings to all our devoted listeners and a warm welcome to those joining us for the first time. My name is Hazel Baker, and it’s an honour to guide you through another intriguing episode of the London History Podcast. As those familiar with our show will undoubtedly know, we delve into the enigmatic tapestry of London’s past, spotlighting the lives, landmarks, and lore that have shaped this magnificent city. Standing at only 19.5 inches tall, Caroline Crachami became an object of immense fascination, a subject of medical scrutiny, and a participant—willing or not—in London’s burgeoning entertainment scene centred around ‘curiosities’. Caroline Crachami’s life offers us not merely an intriguing biographical account but also serves as a window through which we can explore broader societal attitudes, scientific inquiries, and ethical quandaries of her time.
undefined
Sep 7, 2023 • 45min

115. Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde

Welcome to the London History Podcast, where we delve into the rich tapestry of the city's past, exploring famous landmarks, significant events, and hidden gems. I'm your host, Hazel Baker, a certified London Tour Guide, historian, and avid storyteller with a passion for uncovering the unique narratives that shape this extraordinary city. Today, we turn our lens towards one of the most fascinating tales ever written—Robert Louis Stevenson's "The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde"—a novella that not only lays bare the duality of human nature but also serves as a compelling character study of London itself. Full transcript
undefined
Jun 30, 2023 • 46min

114. Buckingham Palace

Welcome to the London History Podcast, where we delve into the rich tapestry of the city's past, exploring famous landmarks, significant events, and hidden gems. I'm your host, Hazel Baker, a certified London Tour Guide, historian, and avid storyteller with a passion for uncovering the unique narratives that shape this extraordinary city. In today's episode, we're exploring the history of an iconic symbol of the United Kingdom - Buckingham Palace. While most people are familiar with its imposing façade and the Changing of the Guard, the palace's past is filled with lesser-known stories that span centuries. Joining us for this exciting exploration is our special guest, Philip Scott. Philip is a seasoned historian and tour guide with a particular interest in the British monarchy.  Together, Philip and Hazel delve into the origins of the palace, its architectural evolution, and its role in royal and national life. From tales of extravagant royal parties to stories of wartime resilience, we'll unravel the lesser-known facts about this royal residence. So, whether you're a London local or an admirer of the city's history from afar, sit back, relax, and join us on this historical journey through the heart of the British monarchy.
undefined
Jun 15, 2023 • 49min

113. The Gentleman's Magazine

Today, we are going to explore a captivating corner of London's rich literary past: 'The Gentleman's Magazine'. Launched in 1731, this periodical not only revolutionised the way news was disseminated, but it also had a huge impact on the shape of journalism and the publishing industry. Its pages were filled with a dazzling array of content, from political debates and poetry to obituaries and weather reports, reflecting the intellectual currents of 18th-century London and beyond. And who better to guide us through this journey than our special guest for today, Dr Gillian Williamson? A leading historian and author of the seminal work 'British Masculinity in the Gentleman's Magazine', Dr Williamson will help us unravel the influence and significance of this unique publication. So, make yourself comfortable and let's travel back to a time when coffee houses were the internet of the day, and 'The Gentleman's Magazine' was the thread connecting people, politics, and popular culture. From its inception to its evolution, let's delve into how this periodical has shaped London's literary landscape and its enduring legacy. Welcome to the London History Podcast. Let's begin... Show notes: https://londonguidedwalks.co.uk/podcast
undefined
Jun 8, 2023 • 50min

112. Georgian London - Mudlarking Finds

In this episode of the ⁠London History Podcast⁠, we delve into a truly intriguing aspect of London's history – the remnants of Georgian life found along the city's riverbanks through the activity known as mudlarking. Mudlarking, the practice of scavenging along riverbanks, often unearths some fascinating glimpses into the city’s past, and the Georgian era is particularly ripe with discoveries. Our guest for today is Anna Borzello, a seasoned mudlarker, who will share her insights and findings from the Georgian period. Anna has uncovered a wealth of items from this era, each with its own unique story to tell, giving us an intimate, tangible link to Georgian Londoners. And don't forget, f you have a particular interest in Georgian London, we have many more episodes on this period in our archives. From the escapades of the celebrity thief, Jack Sheppard in Episode 94, to a peek into the life of radical MP John Wilkes in Episode 91, and a look at the day-to-day life of Georgian Londoners in our introductory Episode 80, there’s a wealth of knowledge waiting for you. So, pull up a chair, put on your headphones, and prepare to be transported back to the times of powdered wigs, elegant attire, and the charming chaos of Georgian London. Let's set off on another journey this time, down the intriguing, muddy riverbeds of history.

The AI-powered Podcast Player

Save insights by tapping your headphones, chat with episodes, discover the best highlights - and more!
App store bannerPlay store banner
Get the app