Hidden Heritage – Details, episodes & analysis

In this episode, Violet Manners is joined by Dr Tristram Hunt, Director of the Victoria and Albert Museum and former MP, for a wide-ranging conversation about the role of museums in public life. They discuss how institutions like the V&A are evolving in the 21st century - from addressing colonial legacies to engaging new audience - and the importance of safeguarding heritage through education, storytelling, and civic engagement. Tristram reflects on the power of design to shape society and offers his perspective on the future of Britain's cultural landscape. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of *Hidden Heritage*, host Violet Manners sits down with Sir Nicholas Coleridge, former Chair of Condé Nast, Provost of Eton College, and Chair of Historic Royal Palaces, alongside Bart Peerless, Senior Partner at Charles Russell Speechlys, to discuss the evolving challenges and opportunities for heritage sites.  From the role of diversification and financial sustainability to the impact of technology on engaging new audiences, this conversation explores the balance between preserving history and adapting for the future. Sir Nicholas shares insights from his extensive experience with iconic British landmarks, while Bart provides a legal and strategic perspective on stewardship in the modern age.  Tune in for an enlightening discussion on how historic estates can navigate the pressures of today’s world while keeping their timeless appeal alive for generations to come. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Hidden Heritage! In this episode, Lady Violet Manners is joined by Harrison Fannon, founder of Worthy Earth. Harrison shares his journey of creating flourishing market gardens on disused farmland and discusses the importance of heritage, sustainability, and community impact. Join us as we explore: Introducing Harrison Fannon: Harrison's background and his passion for heritage and sustainable farming. The Role of Historic Houses: How historic houses serve as community beacons and their ongoing significance. Injecting the Past into Historic Lands: Harrison's current work and how he aims to revive historical significance in contemporary contexts. Upcoming Event Details: Information about the Worthy Earth Festival, a harvest celebration that highlights community involvement and sustainability. Key Points 00:00:05 - Introduction of Harrison Fannon and discussion on his background. 00:01:42 - Harrison shares how Worthy Earth began and its mission. 00:03:45 - The significance of no-dig gardening and its benefits. 00:06:03 - Expansion of Worthy Earth to multiple sites, including Blenheim Palace. 00:08:15 - The role of walled gardens and their historical importance. 00:10:10 - Challenges faced by historic houses and the importance of local food production. 00:15:01 - Current projects at Worthy Earth, including partnerships with estates and universities. 00:24:40 - Introduction of the Worthy Earth Festival and its significance. 00:27:54 - The concept of the autumn equinox and its historical context. 00:30:44 - The future of regenerative farming and its impact on heritage sites. 00:41:21 - Harrison's final destination recommendation: Lowther Castle. Guest Info Harrison Fannon is the founder of Worthy Earth, an initiative focused on creating sustainable market gardens on disused farmland. With a background in archaeology and anthropology, Harrison has combined his passion for heritage and sustainable farming to make a positive impact on local communities. About Hidden Heritage is a podcast that sheds light on Britain's historical treasures. Join us as we explore heritage's role in community and identity. Links and Resources Worthy Earth - Learn more about Harrison's work and upcoming events. Heritage Explore - Visit for more information about heritage sites across the UK. Blenheim Palace Rotherfield Park Good Food Oxfordshire Lowther Castle Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Hidden Heritage, where Lady Violet Manners explores Great Britain's historical treasures. David Macdonald, a Senior Director at Sotheby's and a specialist in valuing and selling both modern and antique valuables, joins Violet in this episode. Join us as we explore: David's Journey: From auction house porter to Senior Director at Sotheby's, David shares his fascinating career path. Valuing Historic Items: Insights into the art market and the importance of storytelling in preserving and selling cultural artefacts. Favourite Experiences and Objects: David recounts some of the most remarkable items and experiences from his career. Historic Destination Recommendations: David provides his top three historic house recommendations for enthusiasts. Key Points 00:00:05 - Introduction of David Macdonald and his background. 00:01:28 - David shares his career journey and passion for history. 00:03:34 - Early experiences at Christie's and Sotheby's. 00:05:01 - The significance of attic sales and their origins. 00:07:25 - The tension between preservation and moving on. 00:11:57 - David's first destination recommendation: Calke Abbey. 00:21:10 - The role of an auctioneer and the skills required. 00:24:02 - Importance of single-owner sales in the auction world. 00:25:49 - David's favourite treasures: Churchill's dispatch box and Lady Chatterley's Lover's judge's copy. 00:32:46 - The impact of losing historic houses and the significance of Hamilton Palace. 00:36:50 - David's second destination recommendation: Plas Newydd. 00:47:29 - Future collectors and the role of Sotheby's. 00:51:57 - David's third destination recommendation: Spetchley Park. 01:04:05 - Conclusion and where to find more information about David and Sotheby's. Guest Info David Macdonald is a Senior Director at Sotheby's, specializing in the sale of contemporary and historic valuables. With a career spanning over two decades, David has become a leading expert in the art market, known for his ability to identify and value significant cultural artefacts. About Step inside Britain’s greatest Historic Houses, gardens, and family homes through HeritageXplore, your digital gateway to discovering heritage today. Visit www.heritagexplore.com Links and Resources Sotheby's Calke Abbey Plas Newydd Spetchley Park Gardens Hamilton Palace Chatsworth House Castle Howard Harwood House Wentworth Woodhouse Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Georgia Willis, a passionate art history student and Heritage Explore intern, is joining Lady Violet Manners at Hidden Heritage. In this special episode, Georgia takes the hosting reins to discuss the innovative new platform, Heritage Explore, and its mission to illuminate Great Britain's hidden historic treasures. Join us as we explore: The inspiration behind Heritage Explore: Violet shares stories from her travels and the "Duchess" podcast that sparked the creation of a unified platform for independent historic houses. The future of Heritage Explore: Discussing exciting new features such as AI audio tours and interactive maps, designed to enhance visitor experiences. Personal recommendations: Violet provides her top three historic destination picks for the summer, including the haunted Glamis Castle and the romantic ruins of Dunnottar Castle. The impact on young people: Georgia and Violet discuss how engaging with heritage can provide a sense of identity and grounding for the younger generation. Key Points: 00:00:05 Introduction of Georgia Willis as guest host 00:01:03 Violet introduces herself and her background at Belvoir Castle 00:03:53 Inspiration behind creating Heritage Explore 00:08:19 Explanation of Heritage Explore's features and future plans 00:13:15 Violet's favourite features on Heritage Explore 00:16:38 Underutilized features on the platform 00:18:59 Violet's top three historic destination recommendations for summer 00:24:52 Georgia's thoughts on British culture and heritage 00:25:41 Special discount code for listeners (HX 24) Guest Info: Georgia Willis is an art history student from Birmingham University with a keen interest in heritage, culture, and architecture. She has spent five weeks interning at Heritage Explore, contributing her enthusiasm and insights to the burgeoning platform's mission to make British heritage accessible to all. About: Step inside Britain's greatest Historic Houses, gardens, and family homes through HeritageXplore, your digital gateway to discovering heritage today. Visit www.heritagexplore.com Links and Resources: HeritageXplore Glamis Castle Lamport Hall Dunnottar Castle Belvoir Castle Traquair House Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Step inside the timeless elegance of Lamport Hall as Hidden Heritage delves into the world of historical houses and the remarkable woman leading its preservation. In this episode of Hidden Heritage, host Lady Violet Manners invites listeners to embark on a journey through the hallowed halls of Lamport Hall, under the guidance of esteemed guest Eleanor Carter-Smith, head of enterprise for Lamport Hall's Preservation Trust. As they explore the rich tapestry of history woven into the estate, they shed light on the significance of maintaining and diversifying historic houses in the modern era. Join the conversation as they delve into the allure of historic houses, the captivating details of Lamport's interior, and the fascinating insight into the family history of the Isham family. Soak in the wisdom of Eleanor Carter-Smith as she shares her vision for the future of Lamport, her pursuit of preserving history, and the array of exciting events awaiting visitors at this timeless treasure. Key Points: 00:00:05 Introduction to the Hidden Heritage podcast and guest Eleanor Carter-Smith 00:01:35 Eleanor Carter-Smith's background and role at Lamport Hall 00:03:06 Description and history of Lamport Hall 00:04:05 Overview of Lamport Hall's construction and the Isham family 00:06:03 Architectural features and periods of Lamport Hall 00:06:43 Notable figures associated with Lamport Hall 00:07:18 Sir Thomas Isham's Grand Tour and its impact on the estate 00:08:41 Stories and preservation of the Isham family records 00:10:11 Sir Charles Isham's eccentricities and creation of the garden gnome 00:11:27 Description of the rockery and its restoration 00:13:43 The mural painted by Italian prisoners of war in the stables 00:16:33 Lamport Hall's role in the local community and its features 00:17:07 The preservation trust and its establishment in 1974 00:18:35 Challenges faced by Lamport Hall during and after World War II 00:21:15 Current challenges of running a historic house 00:24:30 Favourite rooms and features of Lamport Hall Guest Info Eleanor Carter-Smith is Head of Enterprises for Lamport Hall's Preservation Trust. With over a decade of experience in the heritage sector, Eleanor's journey with Lamport Hall began as an intern during her MA in Country House Art History and Literature at the University of Leicester. Her passion for the estate led her to return after gaining valuable experience at other historic houses, including Rockingham Castle and Delapre Abbey. Eleanor's role focuses on aligning the Trust's vision with visitor expectations and community needs. She is particularly interested in making historic houses commercially relevant while preserving their cultural significance. Living on-site at Lamport Hall, Eleanor brings a unique perspective to her work, combining a deep appreciation for the estate's rich history with innovative approaches to ensure its sustainable future. About: Step inside Britain’s greatest Historic Houses, gardens and family homes through HeritageXplore, your digital gateway to discovering heritage today. Visit www.heritagexplore.com Links and Resources: Lamport Hall Lamport Hall Preservation Trust Eleanor Carter-Smith Violet Manners University of Leicester Rockingham Castle Delapre Abbey Northamptonshire Lord Burghley (William Cecil) Isham family John Isham Palladio Inigo Jones Sir Thomas Isham Elizabeth Isham Mary Close Sir Charles Isham Sir Giles Isham The Crown (Netflix series) Historic Houses Gardeners' World Tate Joan Carlisle Richmond Park King West The Swan pub Coton Manor Holdenby House Kelmarsh Hall Deene Park Northampton Saints Silverstone Circuit Heritage X Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Hidden Heritage, where the rich tapestry of Great Britain's historical treasures comes to life. Geoff Heath-Taylor, a renowned historian and author, joins Lady Violet Manners in this episode as they travel through the tenacity of cultural artifacts, the beauty of historic homes, and the significance of preserving national identity. In this episode, Geoff Heath-Taylor discusses the loss of cultural artefacts during wars and revolutions, advocating for the restitution of looted goods. He also introduces the magnificent Chettle House in Dorset and the importance of historic houses in shaping culture. Moreover, they unravel the challenges faced by historic houses today, from financial hardships to the disconnect between city and country dwellers. Key Points: 00:00:05 Introduction of Geoff Heath-Taylor and his background 00:01:31 Geoff discusses his upbringing in Africa and England 00:02:21 Explanation of Geoff's diverse interests and career as a writer 00:03:34 Discussion of how losing family land in Africa influenced Geoff's interest in heritage 00:05:14 Conversation about the beauty and inspiration of historic buildings 00:06:38 Geoff talks about his love of writing and first job at Country Life magazine 00:08:00 Introduction of Castle Ward as Geoff's first destination recommendation 00:11:08 Explanation of challenges faced by historic houses today 00:13:11 Discussion of Wentworth Woodhouse and its history 00:17:46 Conversation about the loss of country houses after World War II 00:21:14 Geoff explains his view on objective beauty in architecture 00:24:43 Discussion of the Country House podcast and its educational aims 00:27:04 Conversation about art losses during World War II and the Nazi regime 00:29:02 Introduction of Chettle House as Geoff's second destination recommendation 00:32:46 Discussion on government's role in preserving national heritage 00:41:44 Introduction of Holkham Hall as Geoff's third destination recommendation Guest Info Geoff Heath-Taylor is a versatile professional with a background in journalism, consulting, and academia. Raised in Africa and the English countryside, he began his career as an in-house writer for *Country Life* magazine. He has contributed to numerous publications, including *The Telegraph*, *The Daily Mail*, *The Spectator*, *Tatler*, and *Vanity Fair*, and has appeared as a cultural commentator on television and podcasts. As a consultant, Geoff advises private family offices globally on education, art, interiors, and philanthropy, and has also advised governments on policy related to education and the built environment. He lectures at universities on education, liberty, architecture, and the philosophy of beauty. Geoff holds a BA in History from the University of Exeter. Step inside Britain’s greatest Historic Houses, gardens and family homes through HeritageXplore, your digital gateway to discovering heritage today. Visit www.heritagexplore.com Links and Resources: "Woman in Gold" film Chettle House in Dorset "Amazing Grace" film St Giles Lord Shaftesbury National Trust Country Life magazine Holcombe Hall in Norfolk "The Trumpet of Liberty" poem Castle Ward in Northern Ireland Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Step inside British history with Hidden Heritage, the podcast that uncovers the stories behind the nation's most beloved destinations. Join host Lady Violet Manners, as she delves into the architectural wonders, family histories, and cultural gems that make up the fabric of British heritage. In this episode, architect and historian John Goodall shares his passion for ancestral connections in old buildings and the physical expression of this in churches. As he delves into the fascinating archives at Belvoir and unravels the remarkable story of a divided estate, listeners will discover the intricate human stories behind historic places. Tune in to uncover: The importance of experiencing historic places firsthand, and the significance of parish churches in understanding historical alterations. Insights and stories about the preservation and future of historic sites and buildings, shed light on the delicate balance between preservation and allowing change. The pleasures of British life, the impact of visiting historical places, and the cultural significance of heritage—from ancestral power to the unearthing of hidden treasures—. Uncover the hidden treasures of British heritage with Hidden Heritage, where culture and history come to life. Key Points: 00:00:05 Introduction of John Goodall and his background 00:01:35 John describes his role as architecture editor at Country Life 00:03:14 Origins of John's passion for architecture and heritage 00:05:04 John's early experiences writing for Country Life 00:06:47 Importance of visiting and experiencing historic places in person 00:08:21 Discussion of John's interest in mediaeval history 00:10:17 Description of John's doctoral research on Ewelm almshouse 00:15:03 John's first recommended destination: Durham 00:21:06 Challenges facing historic buildings and spaces 00:24:43 Impact of tax policies on preservation of heritage sites 00:32:21 John's second recommended destination: Madresfield 00:37:44 Discussion of British attitudes towards mediaeval history 00:41:13 Importance of preserving historic sites for future generations 00:45:51 Ongoing challenges related to VAT and heritage preservation 00:51:57 John's third recommended destination: Belvoir Castle 00:59:02 Tip for visitors to explore parish churches associated with historic houses Guest Info John Goodall is an esteemed English historian and author, currently serving as the Architectural Editor of Country Life magazine. In this role, he is responsible for writing and commissioning the celebrated series of architectural features published weekly in the magazine. John had a diverse upbringing because he spent his childhood in Kenya, Germany, India, and Yorkshire. His professional career began with English Heritage, where he worked as a researcher and historian from 1997 to 1999 and again from 2003 to 2007. During his tenure at English Heritage, he played a pivotal role in launching the new guidebook series known as the Red Guides and contributed to several flagship exhibitions at historic sites, including Battle and Dover. Goodall's scholarly contributions include his acclaimed second book, The English Castle, which has garnered numerous accolades. About: Step inside Britain’s greatest Historic Houses, gardens and family homes through HeritageXplore, your digital gateway to discovering heritage today. Visit www.heritagexplore.com Links and Resources: Country Life (weekly publication) English Heritage Belvoir Castle Haddon Hall Chatsworth Ewellm Durham Cathedral Durham Castle Lady Lettice Grovesner Duke of Westminster Bostford Church Saint Cuthbert "Bridgerton" Madresfield Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Hidden Heritage, listeners are in for a treat as Lady Violet Manners takes them on an entrancing journey into the heart of the illustrious Hellfire Caves with Victoria Dashwood Chase. Unravel the mystique surrounding these ancient underground passages, delve into their tumultuous history with the notorious Hellfire Club, and witness the metamorphosis of this captivating heritage site. From delving into the architectural marvels and the family-friendly escapades to recounting ghostly encounters, this is an episode that promises to keep you on the edge of your seat. Prepare to uncover what sets the Hellfire Caves apart as a spellbinding attraction, gain insight into the plans aimed at enriching visitor experiences, and become engrossed in the timeless tales of wonder and fascination nestled beneath the English countryside. Join us for an expedition through time and tradition as Hidden Heritage unveils the enigmatic mysteries of the Hellfire Caves. Key Points: 00:00:05 - Introduction to the podcast and the topic of the Hellfire Caves. 00:02:18 - Explanation of the connection to the Hellfire Caves and the ancestor Sir Francis Dashwood. 00:04:10 - The history of the Hellfire Club and Sir Francis Dashwood's involvement in its establishment. 00:07:50 - Description of Sir Francis Dashwood's personality and eccentricities. 00:09:09 - Details about Sir Francis Dashwood's previous clubs before the Hellfire Club. 00:10:44 - The connection between the Hellfire Caves and Benjamin Franklin. 00:11:10 - Sharing of ghost stories associated with the Hellfire Caves. 00:14:17 - Discussion of the frequency of the Hellfire Club meetings. 00:15:09 - A story about John Wilkes dressing up as a baboon and causing mischief. 00:16:30 - The historical significance of the Hellfire Caves and its connection to America. 00:19:17 - The highlights of visiting the Hellfire Caves and the wider estate today. 00:22:09 - Suggestions for other activities and places to visit in the area. 00:25:20 - The annual events and experiences offered at the Hellfire Caves, including Halloween and Christmas. 00:27:18 - Hopes for the future of the estate and creating more experiences for families. Guest Info Victoria Dashwood Chase is a descendant of the renowned Sir Francis Dashwood, the 18th-century aristocrat who commissioned the construction of the Hellfire Caves in West Wycombe, Buckinghamshire. The caves, originally created between 1748 and 1752, served as a meeting place for the infamous Hellfire Club, a secret society known for its libertine activities and influential members.After being closed for nearly 200 years, the Hellfire Caves were reopened in the late 1940s and early 1950s by Victoria's grandfather, Sir John Dashwood, who was inspired to restore the caves following a holiday to New Mexico. The restoration project aimed to transform the caves into a tourist attraction, and since their reopening in 1951, they have welcomed over two million visitors. Victoria Dashwood Chase, who holds a degree from Edinburgh University, is actively involved in the family business. She focuses on the experiential and event side of the tourist attraction, leveraging the unique historical and cultural significance of the Hellfire Caves to offer a variety of engaging experiences for visitors. Her work includes organising events, tours, and other activities that highlight the rich history and mysterious allure of the caves About: Step inside Britain’s greatest Historic Houses, gardens and family homes through HeritgeXplore, your digital gateway to discovering heritage today. Visit www.heritagexplore.com Links and Resources: Hellfire Caves, West Wycombe, UK Hellfire Club Marlowe town Heritage sites Sir Francis Dashwood Chilterns West Wycombe Village and Hill Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Step inside the world of hidden heritage as Lady Violet Manners invites you to embark on a journey of discovery in the latest episode of the podcast. Joining her is Dr. Guy Hayward, co-founder of the British Pilgrim Trust, to unravel the timeless allure of pilgrimage and the profound connection to the sacred sites of Great Britain. In this episode, listeners can expect to be swept away by captivating tales of historical sculptures, ancient trees, and the transformative power of pilgrimage. With insights from Guy Hayward, discover the depths of custodianship, the spiritual significance of ancient buildings, and the resurgence of pilgrimage in the UK. As the conversation unfolds, delve into the rich tapestry of heritage and tradition, uncovering the unique rituals and personal transformations experienced on pilgrimage. Uncover the evocative melodies of early music at Westminster Abbey and the mesmerising charm of choral evensong as Guy shares his passion for these enchanting traditions. So, come along on this extraordinary journey through history, spirituality, and the enduring legacy of sacred heritage sites in Great Britain. It's an episode not to be missed, offering an uplifting and insightful exploration of our nation's hidden treasures. Key Points: 00:00:05: Introduction to Guy Hayward, co-founder of the British Pilgrim Trust 00:02:16: Guy defines pilgrimage as walking for the soul, not just for exercise 00:05:30: Guy encourages people to lie down in churches and look up at the ceilings 00:06:38: Guy discusses the origins of pilgrimage, dating back to the dawn of time 00:11:22: Guy shares his view on favourite pilgrimage routes in the UK 00:44:53: Guy reveals there are 16,000 ancient parish churches and 43 cathedrals in England and Wales 00:45:11: The British Pilgrim Trust has mapped out about 300 pilgrimage routes 00:46:25: Guy shares how his founding patron leads his godson on pilgrimages every year 00:48:28: Guy discusses the connection between historic houses and pilgrimage 00:53:36: Guy sings a song about a special tree at Belvoir Castle Guest Info Guy Hayward is a multi-talented individual with diverse interests and pursuits. He co-founded the British Pilgrimage Trust, an organisation dedicated to reviving the tradition of pilgrimage in Britain, after completing his PhD at Cambridge on the psychology and anthropology of communal singing. Alongside his work with the British Pilgrimage Trust, Guy runs the website choralevensong.org, an online directory aimed at raising awareness of Choral Evensong services. Additionally, he is one half of the satirical cabaret duo Bounder & Cad, showcasing his musical and comedic talents. Guy’s academic background, entrepreneurial spirit, and artistic abilities make him a versatile and fascinating figure, seamlessly blending spirituality, psychology, arts, and cultural heritage. About: Step inside Britain’s greatest historic houses, gardens and family homes through HeritageXplore, your digital gateway to discovering heritage today. Visit https://www.heritagexplore.com/ Links and Resources: British Pilgrim Trust Westminster Abbey English Heritage's regions in England "Sanctuary" initiative by the British Pilgrim Trust Choral evensong (a 16th-century musical service in churches) "Duchess" (No.1 History podcast) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices