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The Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast86 - The surprising history of wool - with Company of ArtisansFor our final episode of 2025, we recommend grabbing your best wooly jumper and getting cosy as we learn all about the history of ... wool!Company of Artisans, regular guests on the Alnwick Castle podcast, are experts on many different aspects of medieval craftsmanship, and on this episode, Karen and Charlie explain why wool was so important to the economy of medieval England - creating trade, funding wars, and providing employment across the country and society. You will hear the exhaustive process of how wool clothing was made, and some of the reasons why wool is no longer...
2025-11-2659 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast85 - Anthony Salvin - with John GoodallAlnwick Castle would not look the way it does today without the work of Anthony Salvin, the principal architect for the restoration of the castle in the Victorian period. Salvin, one of the top architects of his day (especially when it came to castles), created a new entrance to the castle keep, added towers, and designed the Great Kitchen for the 4th Duke of Northumberland.To find out more about Salvin, his life and his work - especially at Alnwick - we spoke to architectural historian and Country Life editor John Goodall, who explained why Salvin's work...
2025-10-2936 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast84 - Tastes through time - with Tastes Through Time!If you visited Alnwick Castle this season (or last), you may have met Tastes Through Time, a living history duo who demonstrate and explore the changes in British domestic and social history - from Tudor crafts and skills to female roles in the Second World War. As their name suggests, they also look at how food and recipes have developed over the centuries.This August, we spoke to Tastes Through Time - aka Lindsey and Georgina - while they were here with us at Alnwick Castle. They told us about their approach to history, as well as...
2025-09-2425 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast83 - The Stolen Crown - with Tracy BormanOn 23rd September, we are delighted to welcome historian and broadcaster Tracy Borman back to Alnwick Castle to speak about her latest book The Stolen Crown: Treachery, Deceit and the Death of the Tudor Dynasty. And to give you a taste of what to expect if you buy a ticket to the event, we spoke with Tracy here on the podcast to find out all about the book.Inspired by new discoveries made at the British Library, Tracy tells us about the succession crisis in the reign of Elizabeth I, and how the transition from the Tudors...
2025-08-2742 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast82 - The 4th Duke and the Victorian rogue - with Peter Lindfield and Frances McIntoshAt Alnwick Castle, the 4th Duke of Northumberland is probably best known for his restoration of the castle in the 1850s and 1860s, transforming the State Rooms and creating the Great Kitchen. But before all that work began, he had encountered a man named George Shaw, who was able to convince him to buy a number of pieces of antique furniture from old Percy properties. The problem? George had faked this furniture, making it himself, and deceiving the duke about its origins.To find out more about this story, we spoke to Dr Peter Lindfield of Cardiff...
2025-07-3047 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast81 - The Road To Lexington: Hugh Percy in America - with Bill Openshaw250 years ago, the American Revolutionary War effectively began with fighting at Lexington and Concord. Among the British soldiers present was Hugh Percy, eldest son of the 1st Duke and Duchess of Northumberland, and future 2nd Duke.What was the heir to Alnwick Castle doing in America? What did he think of the country soon to be known as the United States? And what is his connection to Charles Lee (of Hamilton fame), who would become second-in-command to George Washington himself?To answer these questions, and many more, we spoke to one of our favourite regular...
2025-06-2532 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast80 - Victorian Falconry - with Raphael Historic FalconryAs well as the Great Kitchen of Alnwick Castle being opened to visitors for the first time in 2025, the suite of larder rooms connected to it are also available to see. One of these was the Game Larder - a very important space in the Victorian period for the types of meat that were stored in there ready to be cooked. And one of the ways that game was procured was the traditional pursuit of falconry!With that in mind, who better to tell us about hunting with birds of prey at this time in history than...
2025-05-2825 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast79 - Shakespeare in the 18th century - with Ronan Paterson and Professor Ryuta MinamiElizabeth Percy, 1st Duchess of Northumberland, who lived at Alnwick Castle in the middle decades of the 18th century, was a collector, courtier and artistic patron. But did you know she was also a regular theatregoer?Her many diaries include various mentions of plays she saw, some of which were by William Shakespeare, and her collections include miniature portraits of famous actors and actresses. But what was Shakespeare and the theatre like for Georgian audiences? How did it change during the 1st Duchess' lifetime? And why is the 18th century important in the history of Shakespeare?
2025-04-3057 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast78 - The Alnwick Castle Kitchens Project - with Chris Hunwick and Catherine NeilIn the last episode of the podcast, you will have heard the history of the Alnwick Castle Kitchens, created by architect Anthony Salvin in the late 1850s for the 4th Duke of Northumberland. In this follow-up episode, you will find out about what has been happening in the past year to open these amazing spaces to the public for the first time ever.The Great Kitchen and its larder rooms will be open for visitors from our 2025 season onwards - and a lot of work has been taking place to make this happen.We are...
2025-03-2627 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast77 - Alnwick Castle's KitchensQuestion: which part of Alnwick Castle was once considered the finest of its kind in the world?Answer: it was the Victorian Kitchens, which were created in the 1850s to be an architectural, culinary and technological marvel!In this episode of the Alnwick Castle Podcast, we explore some of the history of the castle kitchens - from the original medieval kitchen area to the developments of the Victorian period. You will hear reports from newspapers of the time, find out about the underground tunnels that delivered food, and hear about a few of the people...
2025-02-2620 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast76 - Sebastiano del Piombo - with Piers Baker-BatesThe Alnwick Castle Podcast returns for 2025! Before we get into the description of this episode, a quick programming note. New episodes of the podcast will now arrive on the last Wednesday of each month, or every four weeks. Please make sure to stay subscribed so you do not miss any.On this episode, we travel to Rome during the Italian Renaissance to explore one of the most impressive parts of the Alnwick Castle art collection. The Visitation by Sebastiano del Piombo catches the eye of every visitor who walks through the Ante Library in the State Rooms...
2025-01-2934 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast75 - Alnwick Castle TimelineIn our final episode of 2024, the Alnwick Castle Podcast presents a timeline of the entire history of the castle ... or, at least, the most significant moments in the history of the castle.Join our hosts Daniel and Deborah as they run through the story of Alnwick Castle in chronological order, from the arrival of the Percy family in England in 1067 to the use of the castle as a filming location in the first Harry Potter movie in 2000.We hope the timeline is a useful and entertaining help for getting the history of Alnwick Castle in...
2024-12-1117 minConsider This Northumberland
Consider This NorthumberlandIn Their Words: Old grant application for aging arena stirs debate in Alnwick-HaldimandAlnwick-Haldimand Township council took another step in its journey to keep an aging arena open for residents at The post In Their Words: Old grant application for aging arena stirs debate in Alnwick-Haldimand appeared first on Consider This. Related posts: In Their Words: Halfway into term Alnwick-Haldimand council debates and approves strategic plan All options open as council seeks public input on future of Alnwick-Haldimand Memorial Arena In Their Words: Alnwick-Halidmand council debates cancelling 2024-2025 hockey season
2024-11-2915 minConsider This Northumberland
Consider This NorthumberlandIn Their Words: Halfway into term Alnwick-Haldimand council debates and approves strategic planAlnwick-Haldimand council debate: Almost two years into its mandate, Alnwick-Haldimand council approved its strategic plan at a recent The post In Their Words: Halfway into term Alnwick-Haldimand council debates and approves strategic plan appeared first on Consider This. Related posts: In Their Words: Alnwick-Halidmand council debates cancelling 2024-2025 hockey season Everything from Grafton arena to housing considered in strategic planning, says mayor Rural Alnwick Haldimand meets challenges with strategic plan, says mayor
2024-11-2905 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast74 - A Brief History of Alnwick Castle's ParksYou may have visited Alnwick Castle this year, or last year, or before that, but did you know there is a beautiful park just west of the castle with a history almost as long?In this episode of the Alnwick Castle Podcast, join hosts Daniel and Deborah for a brief history of Hulne Park - from the two groups of monks that lived there in the medieval period, to its restoration in the Georgian period, to the modern day.You will hear about the transport of cattle from Northumberland to London in the 15th century...
2024-11-2713 minConsider This Northumberland
Consider This NorthumberlandIn Their Words: Old grant application for aging arena stirs debate in Alnwick-HaldimandAlnwick-Haldimand Township council took another step in its journey to keep an aging arena open for residents at a special council meeting on Nov. 15. The Ontario government requested updated information regarding an old grant application the township staff made two years ago for upgrades and repairs to the current facility. It wanted to know […] The post In Their Words: Old grant application for aging arena stirs debate in Alnwick-Haldimand appeared first on Consider This. Related posts: In Their Words: Halfway into term Alnwick-Haldimand council debates and approves strategic plan All options open as council seeks public in...
2024-11-1615 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast73 - More Medieval Music - with Pearl in the EggDuring summer time at Alnwick Castle, we love to invite historical musicians to play music of the past for our visitors in the castle grounds. New to Alnwick this year were the duo Pearl in the Egg (a.k.a Karen and Liz), who play melodies from the 11th century Saxon period to the 16th century Elizabethan.We joined them at the end of their final day of performances at the Castle to find out more about them, their instruments, and the kind of music you might hear at a castle like Alnwick - or a nearby...
2024-11-1323 minThe Poisoners\' Cabinet
The Poisoners' CabinetExpert Witness: Take a Tour of The Alnwick Poison GardenLet's take a trip around the world's deadliest garden, The Alnwick Poison Garden!Join us for this special bonus episode where Nick and Sinead are shown around the world-famous Poison Garden at Alnwick Gardens to learn about all the plants that can kill. The gardens are dedicated to growing toxic and narcotic plants and educating people of all ages about them. This is a live recording with expert guide John Knox, and is full of fun facts about things in your garden, in the woods, in the fields, basically EVERYWHERE that can mess you...
2024-11-0450 minConsider This Northumberland
Consider This NorthumberlandIn Their Words: Halfway into term Alnwick-Haldimand council debates and approves strategic planAlnwick-Haldimand council debate: Almost two years into its mandate, Alnwick-Haldimand council approved its strategic plan at a recent meeting. Most municipal councils in Northumberland County already have a strategic plan in place. A strategic plan is a guiding document. As you will hear in this debate, the CAO will explain how it will accompany every […] The post In Their Words: Halfway into term Alnwick-Haldimand council debates and approves strategic plan appeared first on Consider This. Related posts: In Their Words: Old grant application for aging arena stirs debate in Alnwick-Haldimand In Their Words: Alnwick-Halidmand council debates ca...
2024-11-0205 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast72 - Border Reivers - with Andy RiceAlnwick Castle, for hundreds of years, was a border fortress, part of the defensive line protecting England from Scottish attacks. But throughout the medieval period and into the Tudor and Elizabethan periods, families on both sides of the border were known as reivers - thieves, raiders and criminals who took every opportunity to attack their rivals.We spoke to our resident master longbowman, Andy Rice, who also happens to be a bit of an expert on the reivers! Andy tells us who they were, when reiving was at its peak and when it died out, and the...
2024-10-3038 minConsider This Northumberland
Consider This NorthumberlandIn Their Words: Alnwick-Halidmand council debates cancelling 2024-2025 hockey seasonThe show: On September 30, the Alnwick-Haldimand Township council met to discuss the state of the Memorial Arena The post In Their Words: Alnwick-Halidmand council debates cancelling 2024-2025 hockey season appeared first on Consider This. Related posts: All options open as council seeks public input on future of Alnwick-Haldimand Memorial Arena Alnwick-Halidmand John Logel on the state of Memorial Arena and its future AH council to seek a report at next meeting into the feasibility of Legion partnership to save aging arena
2024-10-1823 minConsider This Northumberland
Consider This NorthumberlandAlnwick-Halidmand John Logel on the state of Memorial Arena and its futureThe show: The state of the Memorial Arena in Grafton has been an issue for a long time. The post Alnwick-Halidmand John Logel on the state of Memorial Arena and its future appeared first on Consider This. Related posts: All options open as council seeks public input on future of Alnwick-Haldimand Memorial Arena AH council to seek a report at next meeting into the feasibility of Legion partnership to save aging arena Alnwick-Haldimand takes steps to move forward on the future of Memorial Arena after much debate
2024-10-1827 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast71 - The Alnwick Castle Library Project (Part 3) - with Ellin Belton and Andrew JarmanIf you are a subscriber to the Alnwick Castle Podcast (thank you!) or you follow us on social media, you will be aware of the Library Project that has been taking place throughout 2024, restoring and reimagining this vital part of the State Rooms.As part of our podcast mini-series following the progress of the project, we were joined for a third and final time by Project Conservator Ellin Belton and Household Controller Andrew Jarman as work in the Library reached its final stages. They reflect on the developments since we last spoke in the summer, and on...
2024-10-1625 minConsider This Northumberland
Consider This NorthumberlandIn Their Words: Alnwick-Haldimand council debates decision to cancel 2024-2025 hockey seasonThe show: On September 30, the Alnwick-Haldimand Township council met to discuss the state of the Memorial Arena in Grafton. The ice rink’s pipes were failing, and the situation was grim. The council debated what to do. The choice was stark: either pay $50,000 for repairs on the system that may or may not fix […] The post In Their Words: Alnwick-Haldimand council debates decision to cancel 2024-2025 hockey season appeared first on Consider This. Related posts: Alnwick-Halidmand Mayor John Logel on the state of the Memorial Arena and its future All options open as council seeks public inpu...
2024-10-0523 minConsider This Northumberland
Consider This NorthumberlandAlnwick-Halidmand Mayor John Logel on the state of the Memorial Arena and its futureThe show: The state of the Memorial Arena in Grafton has been an issue for a long time. Over decades, many councils have dealt with the more than 75-year-old building and its infrastructure. The current Alnwick-Haldimand council inherited this legacy. In January, Mayor John Logel appeared on the show to discuss a survey to determine […] The post Alnwick-Halidmand Mayor John Logel on the state of the Memorial Arena and its future appeared first on Consider This. Related posts: All options open as council seeks public input on future of Alnwick-Haldimand Memorial Arena Everything from Grafton arena to...
2024-10-0527 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast70 - The Case of the Percy Tiles - with Karen Slade (Company of Artisans)What can 500-year-old tiles tell us about the rise and fall of a noble family in the Tudor period? Quite a lot, as it turns out! Join us for this historical detective story, as we look into the mystery of why the survival of Percy family tiles is such a rare occurrence, and what the building of a Victorian chocolate factory has to do with their rediscovery...To explain this intriguing history, we are joined (for her fourth appearance on the podcast) by Karen Slade from the Company of Artisans, an expert on medieval tiles who has...
2024-10-0234 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast69 - The House of Dudley - with Dr Joanne PaulDid you know there was a Duke of Northumberland two centuries before the Percy family of Alnwick Castle were given the title? And that the person who held the dukedom also spent time here at Alnwick? He was John Dudley, part of one of the most important families of the Tudor period and one of the people who features in The House of Dudley, a fascinating book by Dr Joanne Paul that explores this family and their history.We were very lucky to get to speak to Dr Paul about John Dudley and his connections to Alnwick C...
2024-09-1843 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast68 - The Burnings: 16th century witch trials - with Naomi KelseyThe Burnings is the debut novel from author Naomi Kelsey, and tells the story of some of the women accused of witchcraft during a period of intense persecution in 16th century Scotland. We were lucky enough to be joined at the castle by Naomi, who told us all about the history behind the book from early modern medicine to Stuart court intrigue, her process of researching characters and other historical details, and much more. The Wizard Earl of Northumberland, one of our favourites here on the podcast, was lord of Alnwick Castle while the North Berwick witch t...
2024-09-0440 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast67 - Historic Houses - with Sarah RollerWhat do Alnwick Castle, Chatsworth House, Blenheim Palace, Castle Howard, Muncaster Castle and over 1400 other places across the UK have in common? They are all part of Historic Houses, an organisation that for over 50 years has been a voice for independent heritage.To find out more, we spoke to Historic Houses' Policy & Education Manager, Sarah Roller. Sarah explains the history of the organisation, what they do, and what makes all these great places so special - whether they are well-known or a hidden gem. She also tells us about her own fascinating role and background in history...
2024-08-2120 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast66 - Downton Abbey at Alnwick Castle - with Alnwick Castle staff!It was ten years ago this summer that global hit drama Downton Abbey first filmed at Alnwick Castle, for their 2014 Christmas special. The show returned to the Castle the following summer for what would be their final episode before transferring to the big screen (and Alnwick makes a small cameo in the first Downton movie as well).To mark the anniversary of Downton Abbey at Alnwick - or Brancaster - Castle, we gathered two of our team members, Film Tour Guide Brad and Downton fan Jody, to talk all things Downton. You will hear a freewheeling conversation...
2024-08-0735 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast65 - Young Elizabeth - with Nicola TallisOn Friday 11th October, Alnwick Castle welcomes historian and broadcaster Nicola Tallis to speak about her new book. Young Elizabeth is the story of the early years of Queen Elizabeth I, and is a fascinating, comprehensive biography of this part of Elizabeth's life - from the execution of her mother Anne Boleyn to her becoming the last Tudor monarch.We were lucky enough to be joined on the podcast by Nicola Tallis to tell us about the process of writing the book, her thoughts on the relationship (or not) between Anne Boleyn and Henry Percy, 6th Earl...
2024-07-2430 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast64 - Lions of the Red Rose: the Exhibition - with Chris HunwickWe return to the Wars of the Roses for the latest episode of the Alnwick Castle Podcast, for an exclusive audio tour of the new exhibition inspired by Lions of the Red Rose, the story of the Percy family and their involvement in the Wars.We were lucky enough to be shown around every part of the exhibition by Alnwick Castle Archivist Chris Hunwick, who explains the stories behind the documents on display - who they belonged to, what they mean, and how they have survived to the present day. You will hear about seals, coins, 15th...
2024-07-1033 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast63 - Archery, Hotspur and the Wars of the Roses - with Andy RiceWhen master medieval archer Andy Rice was last on the Alnwick Castle podcast, we were introduced to some of the principles and the importance of archery in the Middle Ages. For our latest episode, Andy returned for a live interview in Artisans Courtyard - with a live audience listening in!You will hear Andy explain how the bow and its arrows were made. Continuing our 2024 theme of the Wars of the Roses, he describes how archery made a difference (or didn't) in battles like Towton in 1461. And then we get a little bit gory with the story...
2024-06-2630 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast62 - The Alnwick Castle Library Project (Part 2) - with Ellin Belton, Andrew Jarman and Robin SmeatonWe last told you all about the Alnwick Castle Library project in April this year, on episode 59 of the podcast. On that episode, we spoke to Project Conservator Ellin Belton and Household Controller Andrew Jarman and found out the plans for restoring this amazing state room within Alnwick Castle.The project has continued its progress since then, so we went back to the Library to find out the latest updates. This time, Deborah was joined by Ellin and Andrew, as well as Buildings manager for Alnwick Castle, Robin Smeaton - making his long-awaited debut on the podcast. 
2024-06-1225 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast61 - The King's Mother - with Annie GarthwaiteCecily, the debut novel from Annie Garthwaite, told the story of Cecily Neville, Duchess of York, through to the triumph of her son Edward in the Battle of Towton in 1461. In her new book, 'The King's Mother', Annie follows Cecily in her new role as King's Mother to Edward - a position virtually unique in English history. But she is not the only woman vying for that position...The book is a brilliant read, and we are very lucky that Annie Garthwaite will be joining us in person at Alnwick Castle to speak about it on Tuesday 9...
2024-05-2936 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast60 - Making History Silly - with the Silly History BoysIn our silliest, most anarchic episode yet, the Alnwick Castle Podcast has crossed over with the Silly History Boys Show! This band of hilarious historical performers will be joining us at Alnwick Castle this May half term holiday (and again later in the summer) for a series of brilliant interactive shows... so our hosts Daniel and Deborah met Tombo, Billbo and Uncle Bob-Bob (a.k.a Tom, Will and Rob) to find out just how silly history can be.In the interview - which you'll join in media res, another first for us! - you will find...
2024-05-1527 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast59 - The Alnwick Castle Library Project - with Ellin Belton and Andrew Jarman2024 sees the undertaking of a huge project within the Library of Alnwick Castle. Created to house the collection of 14,000 books in the 19th century, in recent years the Library has been a main living space for the Duke and Duchess of Northumberland and their family - as well as a favourite room for many of our visitors (and staff). This year, it is being transformed, and conserved from top to bottom, in preparation for the family returning to live in the castle over the winter months.To find out more about the project, Deborah spoke to Ellin...
2024-05-0120 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast58 - Shakespeare's Wars of the Roses - with Ronan PatersonEvery April, we like to devote an episode of the Alnwick Castle Podcast to William Shakespeare, so as part of our 2024 series of podcasts about the Wars of the Roses, we thought this year's edition could focus on how Shakespeare treated this part of English history in his plays.We were joined once again by expert and scholar Ronan Paterson to discuss the sources Shakespeare used for his histories - from Richard II to Richard III via several Henrys - and many other things, including the character of Richard III (and how he differs from the historical...
2024-04-1753 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast57 - To The Call Of Bugles - with Bill Openshaw and Nick LewisSince his last appearance on the Alnwick Castle Podcast a year ago, one of our favourite regular guests Bill Openshaw has released his first book! To The Call Of Bugles explores the full history of the Percy Tenantry Volunteers, the army based at the Castle and around the north east over 200 years ago to defend it from invasion by Napoleon.Bill joined our hosts Deborah and Daniel once again on this episode, alongside fellow PTV enthusiast Nick Lewis, to tell us some of his favourite stories from the book, new discoveries he has made, and to give...
2024-04-0337 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast56 - How To Be A Fool - with Tom FoolThroughout the medieval period (and beyond), the jester was an important - and often hilarous - figure in the royal courts of England, and the art of being a fool has not been forgotten! In this episode of the podcast, our hosts Deborah and Daniel speak to Tom Fool, one of the finest silly people working today, to find out how he got into his stilt-walking, fire-breathing, fruit-throwing profession. You will hear about the history of the fool, from Henry II to Henry VIII, and what to expect if you visit Alnwick Castle this Easter and see T...
2024-03-2022 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast55 - Lions of the Red Rose - with the Duke of NorthumberlandLions of the Red Rose is a brand new book exploring the history of the Wars of the Roses by focusing on members of the Percy family - the 2nd Earl of Northumberland, his four warrior sons, and their surviving heir, battling through some of the most brutal and violent decades of British history.The book, which also includes beautifully produced illustrations and maps by Peter Phillips, as well as images of incredible surviving documents from the Alnwick Castle archive, was written by His Grace the 12th Duke of Northumberland.  The Alnwick Castle Podcast was able to s...
2024-03-0616 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast54 - A Brief History of the Percys in the Wars of the RosesIn 2024, the Alnwick Castle Podcast will feature a series of episodes focusing on the Wars of the Roses, the violent, decades-long struggle for the English crown in the 15th century, in which the Percy family and Alnwick Castle played a part. These podcasts will be part of a variety of events and visitor activities based on the Wars of the Roses, tying in with the release of Lions Of The Red Rose, a new book on the subject by the 12th Duke of Northumberland.To get the series started, our hosts Daniel and Deborah take you on...
2024-02-2114 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast53 - Vital Organs: A History of the World's Most Famous Body Parts - with Suzie EdgeOn Saturday 25th May, author, medical historian and TikTok sensation Suzie Edge will be appearing in person at Alnwick Castle to talk about her latest book, Vital Organs: A History of the World's Most Famous Body Parts. You can get your tickets now from alnwickcastle.com .As a preview for the event, Suzie returned to the Alnwick Castle Podcast to talk all things body parts with our hosts Deborah and Daniel. From the various medical problems of royals like Louis XIV of France and Charles II of Spain, to the surgical innovations that came from different body...
2024-02-0735 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast52 - The Cucci Cabinets - with Yannick ChastangFormerly belonging to King Louis XIV and displayed in his palace at Versailles, the huge cabinets known as the Cucci Cabinets are two of the most important pieces of furniture in the world - and if you have visited the State Rooms at Alnwick Castle, you will have seen them on display in the Drawing Room.To find out more about these two stars of the castle collection, our podcast hosts Deborah and Daniel spoke to cabinetmaker and conservator Yannick Chastang, who worked for eighteen months on the Cucci Cabinets to preserve them for the future. We...
2024-01-2453 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast51 - The Dunbar Prisoners of 1650 - with Megan OlshefskiFollowing the Battle of Dunbar in early September 1650, thousands of Scottish prisoners of war were marched south to Durham Cathedral. On their way, they were kept overnight at Alnwick Castle.In the first Alnwick Castle Podcast of 2024, hosts Deborah and Daniel find out more about the prisoners, how we know they were at the Castle, and what ultimately happened to them. We spoke to Megan Olshefski, a scholar and researcher whose work has tracked surviving Dunbar prisoners from Durham and across the Atlantic to the American colonies where they lived out their days.It was...
2024-01-1032 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast50 - Alnwick Castle QuestionsThe Alnwick Castle Podcast is 50 episodes old! To celebrate making it to 50 podcasts, and because it is almost Christmas... we have devoted this special episode to some of the questions you have asked about Alnwick Castle - some of the most popular questions that are often asked about the castle itself and its history. Our hosts Deborah and Daniel tackle these questions and do their best to answer them, from favourite rooms and items in the collection to the age of the castle and whether it ever really had a Great Hall.A technical note: w...
2023-12-1334 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast49 - Archery - with Andy RicePeople have practiced archery for thousands of years, and it has been part of life at Alnwick Castle since the very beginning, from the death of Harry Hotspur via arrow in 1403, to the local archers gathered by the 5th Earl of Northumberland in 1514, to the modern day when visitors to the Castle can have a go at archery with our trained instructors.To find out more about archery, our hosts Daniel and Deborah spoke to master longbowman Andy Rice, who told us all about the importance of archery in the medieval period, the equipment archers needed in...
2023-11-2941 minGrowing Faith Foundation
Growing Faith FoundationAlnwick and the Ignite Charity - a Growing Faith HubIn this episode, Stephen Beamond speaks to Jess McArdle from Ignite, Alnwick, about the amazing work taking place in the Alnwick Hub, and how Growing Faith can look different in a rural context. To find out more about Ignite's work, visit https://www.ignite-alnwick.co.uk/home
2023-11-2313 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast48 - Studying Heritage - with Iain WheeldonThis episode of the Alnwick Castle Podcast looks a little more into the academic side of castles and their heritage, as hosts Daniel and Deborah are joined by Iain Wheeldon, senior lecturer in the School of Arts and Cultures at Newcastle University.Daniel spoke to Iain about the issues facing the cultural sector right now, the importance of castles to the heritage of Northumberland, and what exactly the difference is between heritage and history.Iain also told us about the Cultural Peeps careers pathway project, a podcast series which features professionals from across the sector...
2023-11-1526 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast47 - Illuminated Manuscripts and the Medieval Scriptorium - with the Company of ArtisansWhat is a scriptorium? What was needed to make books in medieval Europe? What makes a manuscript illuminated? These are some of the questions we explore on the latest episode of the Alnwick Castle Podcast.Hosts Deborah and Daniel welcome back Karen Slade (or Kate Tiler, depending when in history you are!) from the Company of Artisans to tell us all about the sciptoriums where medieval books were created. She explains how the written word was transformed into art, and how books became holy objects. We find out about the process of creating inks and colours, the...
2023-11-0137 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast46 - Tracy Borman interview specialWe were thrilled to host historian and broadcaster Tracy Borman at Alnwick Castle this summer to speak about her new book Anne Boleyn & Elizabeth I: The Mother and Daughter Who Changed History - and even more thrilled that Tracy joined us for a special episode of the Alnwick Castle Podcast.Hosts Daniel and Deborah spoke with Tracy for nearly an hour about the reasons and background behind the book, the new ways of looking at such a familiar subject, the personal side of historical public figures and the rehabilitation of Anne Boleyn (as well as her connection...
2023-10-1853 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast45 - Strange and Mysterious Alnwick Castle TalesAs it is the month of October, with Halloween coming up, we wanted to bring you an episode full of the strangest, spookiest stories connected with Alnwick Castle. Did the 1st Duchess of Northumberland see a ghost when she visited a haunted house in 1762? Was the town of Alnwick plagued by a real vampire? What was so suspicious about the death of the 8th Earl of Northumberland? And how did the Castle end up with the beard of Henry IV, taken from his skeleton centuries after his burial?These are the questions - and we invited resident...
2023-10-0423 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast44 - Tudor Music - with The Tudor SongbookThe music of the Tudor period - songs and instrumental pieces that would have been performed at the royal courts of Henry VIII or Elizabeth I, and heard by people like the Percy Earls and Countesses of Northumberland - is beautiful, fascinating and often haunting. This August at Alnwick Castle, we welcomed The Tudor Songbook, also known as singer Jay Britton, to perform Tudor music for visitors. Podcast hosts Deborah and Daniel (and special guest interviewer Karina, one of our resident historical Artisans) spoke to Jay and her lutenist Fabio Fernandes after their weekend of performances. We h...
2023-09-2031 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast43 - The History of TennisHave you been enjoying watching tennis this summer, like Wimbledon or the US Open? Have you ever thought about how tennis was played centuries ago? Then this episode of the Alnwick Castle Podcast is for you! Host Deborah spoke to award-winning researcher Selene, who has been thoroughly exploring the game of "real tennis" in the early modern period and how it relates to ideas of masculinity at the time. What does this have to do with Alnwick Castle? Through podcast favourite Henry Percy, the Wizard Earl of Northumberland, who was a keen tennis player and a big f...
2023-09-0635 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast42 - Dungeons & Dragons: Honour Among Thieves - with Alnwick Castle staff!If you are a keen cinemagoer, you might have caught Alnwick Castle featuring in Dungeons & Dragons: Honour Among Thieves on the big screen this spring. Starring Chris Pine, Michelle Rodriguez and Hugh Grant, the movie is now available on streaming as well as DVD and Blu Ray, and used the Castle as a filming location.To mark its release, our hosts Deborah and Daniel spoke to a group of Alnwick Castle staff with a connection to Dungeons & Dragons. Brad and Callum, who both lead film location tours of the Castle, worked on the film crew. Charlotte, another...
2023-08-2328 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast41 - Anne Boleyn and Elizabeth IOn Saturday 19th August this year, historian Tracy Borman will be at Alnwick Castle for a very special talk about her new book, Anne Boleyn & Elizabeth I: The Mother and Daughter Who Changed History. The book explores the lives of these two important Tudor women, their legacy in the Tudor period, Elizabethan period and beyond, and their relationship and connections they made to each other. You can get tickets from alnwickcastle.com or our Eventbrite page https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/book-talk-with-tracy-borman-anne-boleyn-elizabeth-i-tickets-635826091957 .As a preview for the event, Alnwick Castle Podcast hosts Daniel and Deborah discuss...
2023-08-0934 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast40 - Medieval Music - with Trouvere Medieval MinstrelsThe fortieth episode of the Alnwick Castle podcast is a special musical episode! Our hosts Deborah and Daniel have not started singing ... but they did speak to Paul and Gill, also known as Trouvere Medieval Minstrels, all about brilliant medieval music.The conversation with Paul and Gill took place within the grounds of Alnwick Castle - so you may hear various background noises throughout - where they spoke about what makes medieval music so special. You will hear about the difference between a troubadour and a trouvere, the stories of some individual medieval musicians, how music would...
2023-07-2630 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast39 - Bill Richmond - with Luke G WilliamsBill Richmond is one of the most important figures in the history of boxing, British sport and in Black British culture. Born into slavery in America in the 1760s, when he was 13 he met Hugh Percy, the future 2nd Duke of Northumberland, who was able to arrange for Bill to be freed. In Britain, Bill received an education and a trade before entering the world of boxing - where he became a superstar.To find out more about Richmond, hosts Daniel and Deborah spoke to Luke G Williams, the author of biography Richmond Unchained. Luke explains the...
2023-07-1223 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast38 - St Cloud State University - with Wade ShermanAn American university... inside Alnwick Castle? This is the story of St Cloud State University from Minnesota, who have been part of life at the castle for nearly half a century. In this all-American episode of the Alnwick Castle Podcast, hosts Deborah and Daniel speak to Wade Sherman, with SCSU at Alnwick, to find out more.Wade talks about the history of the St Cloud connection with Alnwick, what American students do when they live in a medieval English castle, and his own story with SCSU and the castle - including his starring performance in one of...
2023-06-2826 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast37 - Crowns and Coronets - with Chris Hunwick2023 saw the launch of a brand new exhibition at Alnwick Castle. Crowns and Coronets explores the connections between the castle, the resident Percy family and royal coronations through the centuries, and on this episode of the Alnwick Castle Podcast, we have an exclusive, in-depth behind the scenes look at the displays. Our host Deborah walked through the exhibition with castle archivist Chris Hunwick, whose research was a vital part of bringing Crowns and Coronets to life. You will hear Chris discuss the eyewitness account of the coronation of Richard III, read from the diaries of the 1st D...
2023-06-1436 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast36 - The Tudors, the Percys and Syon House - with Sarah PonderThe Percy family - owners of Alnwick Castle for more than 700 years - had various fascinating links with the Tudor kings and queens of England, but it is at their London residence of Syon House where these connections to Tudor history become even clearer. To find out more, our hosts Deborah and Daniel spoke to Sarah Ponder from Syon House, who explained what happened to the body of Henry VIII when it rested at Syon, how the Wizard Earl of Northumberland came into possession of the house in the Elizabethan period, and its previous history as an important abbey...
2023-05-3135 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast35 - Alnwick Castle and Television - with James DyerAlnwick Castle is famous for its big screen appearances like the first two Harry Potter movies and 2023's Dungeons & Dragons: Honour Among Thieves, but did you know about the many times it has also featured on television? From Downton Abbey to Blackadder, the castle has made its mark on TV audiences for many years. Our hosts Daniel and Deborah introduce Daniel's conversation with James Dyer, Digital Editor-in-Chief of Empire and host of the Pilot TV Podcast, where we get into the unique appeal of Downton, as well as everything from the benefits of filming television on location to cult...
2023-05-1723 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast34 - Alnwick Castle and CoronationsTo mark the coronation of King Charles III this month, the Alnwick Castle Podcast is taking a brief look at coronations from history, especially those with involvement from the Percy family. Hosts Daniel and Deborah introduce the role of the 1st Earl of Northumberland and his descendants at several medieval coronations; the 1st Duke and Duchess at the coronation of George III; the 3rd Duke and his role as ambassador at a 19th century French coronation; and the family's involvement in the coronations of the 20th century.You will also hear excerpts from the diaries o...
2023-05-0313 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast33 - William Shakespeare's Henry IV Part 1 - with Ronan PatersonOn this special Shakespearean episode of the Alnwick Castle Podcast to mark the anniversary of the Bard's birth, we welcome back Shakespeare academic and expert Ronan Paterson as our guest to tell us all about the play Henry IV Part 1, which is all about one of the most important episodes in Percy family history. Hosts Daniel and Deborah spoke to Ronan about what makes the play so fascinating to read, watch or be part of, from characters like Prince Hal, Falstaff and King Henry himself, to the characters that would have lived at or visited Alnwick Castle...
2023-04-1936 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast32 - The 2nd Duke of Northumberland - with Bill Openshaw and Nick LewisHugh Percy, 2nd Duke of Northumberland, was in charge of Alnwick Castle from 1787 until his death thirty years later. On this episode of the Alnwick Castle Podcast, hosts Daniel and Deborah speak to returning guests Bill Openshaw and Nick Lewis, both experts on the 2nd Duke, to find out all about him.Subjects covered include: Percy's early military career in the American Revolutionary War, and the friendships formed there with Native American leaders like Thayendanegea (referred to on the podcast by his Anglicised name Joseph Brant), and the freed former slave Bill Richmond; Percy's impact and legacy...
2023-04-0541 minTurns Out She\'s a Witch
Turns Out She's a WitchProceed with caution, The Poison Garden in Alnwick.We have Shannon’s FB algorithm to thank for this intriguing episode! Shannon takes us to Alnwick, Northumberland, England, which is home of  Alnwick Castle, the second largest inhabited castle in England, second only to Windsor Castle. Adjacent to Alnwick Castle are the Alnwick Gardens – which is where the Poison Garden is located. The boundaries of the Poison Garden are kept behind black iron gates, and only open for guided tours. This section of the garden is small - but deadly - filled exclusively with around 100 toxic, intoxicating, and narcotic plants.Visitors are strictly prohibited from smellin...
2023-03-2749 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast31 - Women of Alnwick Castle (Part 2)This episode of the Alnwick Castle Podcast follows on from Episode 30, which marked Women's History Month and International Women's Day by looking at the lives of a few significant women from the history of Alnwick Castle - please do go back and listen to that one if you haven't already.While Part 1 focused on the Norman, medieval and Tudor periods, in Part 2, host Deborah takes us from the 17th century onwards with four more remarkable women from Percy family history. You'll hear about the Stuart era spy Lucy Percy, as well as Frances, the Georgian countess who...
2023-03-2215 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast30 - Women of Alnwick Castle (Part 1)To mark Women's History Month and International Women's Day on 8th March, our episodes of the Alnwick Castle Podcast this month are all about a few of the fascinating women who have been part of the history of the castle, and of the Percy family.  This podcast is about Percy women of the Norman, medieval and Tudor periods. Join our host Deborah as she tells the stories of Agnes and Maud, the 12th century heiresses who were able to achieve an unusual level of independence, Maud de Lucy, whose legacy can be found in the Alnwick Castle a...
2023-03-0817 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast29 - Caring for Alnwick Castle's Collections - with Stephanie AllenEvery object, document, material and surface you see when you visit Alnwick Castle has been given a huge amount of care and attention to ensure it is in the best possible condition. But how do you look after the contents of a castle? Join Deborah as she speaks to Stephanie Allen, Object and Archive Conservator at Alnwick Castle, to find out about the work that goes on behind the scenes.Steph discusses her work cleaning, conserving and repairing huge items like chandeliers and ceilings, down to much smaller things you may not even notice like staircase rods...
2023-02-2226 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast28 - Mortal Monarchs: 1000 Years of Royal Deaths - with Suzie EdgeOn the latest episode of the Alnwick Castle Podcast, hosts Daniel and Deborah were very pleased to be able to speak to historian and author (and former doctor) Suzie Edge, all about her new book Mortal Monarchs: 1000 Years of Royal Deaths. Suzie talks us through various historical ways to die, including beheading, battle and broken hearts, covering kings and queens from Edward the Confessor to Mary II. Several of those deaths are shared by former inhabitants of Alnwick Castle...There are some detailed medical descriptions included in this episode. If you want to skip past those parts...
2023-02-0823 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast27 - Treason the Musical - with Ricky Allan and Kieran LynnThis episode of Alnwick Castle takes to the stage, as we return to the subjects of Thomas Percy and the Gunpowder Plot to find out all about a new musical in which the former Constable of the Castle features as a main character. Deborah spoke to Ricky Allan and Kieran Lynn, two of the amazing creative minds behind 'Treason the Musical', and they explain how they were influenced by both musical theatre and history to create this new show.Please be aware that you may hear some background noise behind Ricky as he speaks.To...
2023-01-2523 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast26 - The Jacobites - with Georgia VullinghsThe Alnwick Castle Podcast is back for a new year! In the first episode of 2023, hosts Daniel and Deborah find out more about the Jacobites, and their uprisings in favour of the Stuart dynasty in 1715 and 1745. These were major events in 18th century Britain, particularly in Scotland and the north of England, and Alnwick Castle has connections to several of the important figures involved. We spoke to Jacobite expert and historian, and curator of  Modern and Contemporary History at the National Museum of Scotland, Georgia Vullinghs, who tells us all about Jacobites, covering everything from the Earl of Derwentwater's b...
2023-01-1132 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast25 - The Northumbrian Pipes - with Richard ButlerIn the last episode of the podcast before we take a Christmas break, we have gone a little musical at Alnwick Castle, as hosts Daniel and Deborah explore the Northumbrian pipes, their history and their connection to Alnwick Castle. Earlier in the year, Daniel spoke to Richard Butler, who was appointed Piper to the Duke and Duchess of Northumberland in 1982 - part of a centuries-old tradition of bagpiping at Alnwick Castle. Richard also plays us selections from a few of his favourite tunes.Richard sadly passed away in 2022 and this episode is released as a tribute to...
2022-12-1417 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast24 - Working at Alnwick Castle - with Alnwick Castle staff!If you ever wondered what it was like to work in a castle like Alnwick, this is the podcast for you! Hosts Daniel and Deborah are joined by four members of Alnwick Castle's visitor-facing teams - Brad, Jody, Matthew and Nicky - to find out some of their favourite parts of their work. You'll hear about the training that goes into being a medieval Artisan, coming up with your own wizard name for leading Broomstick Training, how to learn all the information needed to deliver a guided tour, and much more as the team share stories with each other...
2022-11-3029 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast23 - The First World War and Alnwick CastleWith the recent commemorations of Armistice Day marking the anniversary of the end of the First World War, this episode of the Alnwick Castle Podcast explores the wartime contributions of a selection of castle workers and members of the Percy family. Hosts Daniel and Deborah look at the 8th Duke of Northumberland and his siblings, members of the Stables department, the Castle Gate Porter and more in order to share the ways they served during the conflict.Several of the people highlighted in today's episode were enlisted with the Northumberland Fusiliers - check out episodes 13 and 14 of...
2022-11-1614 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast22 - The Gunpowder Plot and Alnwick CastleThis episode of the Alnwick Castle Podcast is one to remember, remember, as we begin with the introduction of our new co-host, our head guide at the castle, Deborah! She and regular host Daniel will take you back a little over 400 years to the time of Henry Percy, the 'Wizard Earl' of Northumberland, and his troublesome cousin - and Constable of Alnwick Castle - Thomas Percy.On the 5th November 1605, the Gunpowder Plot, an attempt to kill King James VI & I, was uncovered, and Thomas Percy was a principal conspirator. In this episode, we look into his...
2022-11-0215 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast21 - Alchemy - with 'Alchemy Jack' and the Company of ArtisansHow many podcasts give you the opportunity to hear from a genuine, real-life alchemist? The Alnwick Castle Podcast is now one of them, as in this episode, host Daniel is joined once again by Karen from the Company of Artisans to speak with 'Alchemy Jack', a performer here at the castle who has experimented with experiments to create the Philosopher's Stone, the science of medieval astronomy, the creation of vaccums, and many other fascinating pursuits that blend the scientific with the magical - in his words, he's a "serial polymath" and is full of fascinating stories.You...
2022-10-1843 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast20 - The Castle in the Wars of the Roses - with Dan SpencerAlnwick Castle, like many other castles in Northumberland and beyond, had a role to play in the English civil wars of the 15th century known now as the Wars of the Roses. To find out more, our host Daniel spoke with historian and author Dan Spencer, whose latest book 'The Castle in the Wars of the Roses' explores this idea in depth. Dan speaks about siege warfare, key figures in the conflict, and of course what was happening at Alnwick Castle during this period.'The Castle in the Wars of the Roses' is available now from Pen...
2022-10-0520 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast19 - Life Below Stairs at Alnwick CastleFrom the grandeur of the State Rooms, this episode of the Alnwick Castle Podcast looks at some of the people who kept it all running, especially in the 19th and early 20th centuries when domestic service was at its height. We are joined on the podcast by Nicola, who has conducted extensive research into life below stairs at Alnwick Castle, to find out more about the lives of the butlers, maids, housekeepers, chefs and footmen that once worked at the castle.If you love Downton Abbey or watched Alnwick Castle appear on that series as Brancaster Castle...
2022-09-2126 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast18 - Alnwick Castle's State RoomsWe're heading inside the main keep of Alnwick Castle in today's episode for a special podcast tour of the State Rooms. Home to many of the castle's amazing collections, the State Rooms were designed in an Italian Renaissance style in the 19th century. Join host Daniel as he walks through the rooms, describing highlights from the interiors and the stories behind them. Use this podcast as an audio guide when you visit Alnwick Castle, or as a way to experience the State Rooms from your home, commute, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Please note that sound...
2022-09-0740 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast17 - Hadrian's Wall and the Rudge Cup - with Frances McIntoshThe latest episode of the Alnwick Castle podcast goes even further back in time than usual, as host Daniel is joined by Frances McIntosh, English Heritage Collections Curator for Hadrian's Wall and the North East, to talk about Hadrian's Wall.This landmark of the North East of England is marking its 1900th anniversary this year, and part of the celebrations is a new exhibition featuring a very special Roman item from the Alnwick Castle collection. Frances explains the significance of this item, known as the Rudge Cup, as well as the craftsmanship that went into making and...
2022-08-2425 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast16 - Alnwick Castle and China - with Emily XuThis episode of the Alnwick Castle podcast goes global, as we look into one of the castle's biggest worldwide audiences - visitors from China. Host Daniel speaks to Shanghai-based translator and interpreter Emily Xu to talk about the differences between Chinese castles and those in England, and some of the unique challenges that come from translating the language of castles and stately homes for the benefit of tourists from a different culture. Emily also shares some favourite memories of the time she spent as a Mandarin-speaking guide at Alnwick Castle earlier in her career.During this podcast...
2022-08-1019 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast15 - Medieval Tiles - with the Company of ArtisansThis episode of the Alnwick Castle podcast goes all the way back to the medieval period to find out all about the art and skill that went into making items that we might think of as common or everyday - tiles! There's much more to tiles than you might expect, particularly during this time in history, and host Daniel is joined by Karen Slade, an expert tiler from the Company of Artisans, to discover what kinds of stories tiles can tell. Karen explains the history of tiles through the medieval period, their significance, and how you become a medieval...
2022-07-2535 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast14 - The Fusiliers Museum of Northumberland (Part 2)In the second part of our special look at the Fusiliers Museum (found in the Abbot's Tower of Alnwick Castle), our host Daniel speaks to the Museum's chair of trustees, John Armstrong, to hear about the long history of the Northumberland Fusiliers - from their beginnings in the 17th century to their status as the county regiment for Northumberland through to the 20th century. John shares stories, quotes and excerpts from documents held by the Museum to bring its history to life and provide a brief taste of what you can expect when you visit.The Fusiliers...
2022-07-1318 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast13 - The Fusiliers Museum of Northumberland (Part 1)Welcome to the first of two special episodes of the Alnwick Castle Podcast dedicated to the Fusiliers Museum of Northumberland, which is based in the Abbot's Tower of the Castle. In Part 1, our host Daniel speaks to Anne from the Museum's front of house team, who explains what a visit to the Fusiliers Museum can offer for visitors of all ages, discusses some of the archival work they do, and shares a few fascinating stories of people connected to the Northumberland Fusiliers.Visits to the Museum are included with entry to Alnwick Castle, and you can find...
2022-06-2919 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast12 - The Alnwick Castle Model - with Chris HunwickThe latest episode of the Alnwick Castle Podcast is all about the latest addition to the Castle visitor attraction - a detailed and accurate model of Alnwick Castle, as it looked in 1608, created with 3D printing technology by Ryan Gregory. Our host Daniel speaks to the Castle's Archivist, Chris Hunwick, about the work that went into the model, covering subjects like the differences between the Castle in 1608 and now, new evaluations of the original maps and documents that have been used to create the model, and how the role of the Archivist fits into projects like this one.
2022-06-1527 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast11 - Alnwick Castle and RoyaltyOn this episode of the Alnwick Castle Podcast, we're marking the occasion of Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee with an episode dedicated to exploring the many connections Alnwick Castle has had with British monarchs of the past. Host Daniel is joined once again by Jeni to look into the Castle's royal history, from Norman barons supplying knights for Henry I, to Harry Hotspur's famous rebellion against Henry IV, to the 5th Earl of Northumberland providing sporting entertainment for Henry VII's daughter in the Alnwick Parks on her way to be married in Scotland. There are stories of kings and...
2022-06-0117 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast10 - Syon House - with Sheree BellinghamThe Alnwick Castle Podcast goes to London in this episode, as our host Daniel Watkins speaks to Sheree Bellingham about Syon House, the official London residence of the Duke and Duchess of Northumberland. Sheree takes us through the history of Syon, from its time as a religious institution, to Georgian restoration works and landscaping by Capability Brown, to its use by a young Princess Victoria. We talk about Syon on film - including Netflix's smash hit series Bridgerton, which used the house as a location - and hear a particularly gory story involving Henry VIII.(Please note...
2022-05-1819 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast9 - The Percy Tenantry Volunteers - with Bill Openshaw and Nick LewisThis episode of the Alnwick Castle Podcast takes us back in time a little over 200 years to the Napoleonic Wars, when the North East of England was defended by a small group of volunteer soldiers based at Alnwick Castle. Led by Hugh Percy, the 2nd Duke of Northumberland, the Percy Tenantry Volunteers made a big impact on the history of the castle and the local area. On this episode, host Daniel is joined by two experts on the PTV, Bill Openshaw and Nick Lewis, to discuss some of the stories from that time.You may notice a...
2022-05-0440 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast8 - Alnwick Castle and Shakespeare - with Ronan PatersonCoinciding with the April anniversary of Shakespeare's birth (and death), and in time for this year's open air performances by the Three Inch Fools at Alnwick Castle, this episode of the Alnwick Castle Podcast is a Shakespearean special! Join host Daniel as he talks to Shakespeare scholar Ronan Paterson about the Bard's connections to the history of Alnwick Castle. Ronan talks in detail about the depiction of famous Alnwick knight Harry Hotspur in Henry IV Part 1 - with the exclusive reveal of a new theory on Shakespeare's inspiration for the character - and he discusses the importance of the...
2022-04-2037 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast7 - The Art of Alnwick Castle - with Waldemar JanuszczakThe Alnwick Castle Podcast gets artistic this episode, as host Daniel is joined by Sunday Times art critic and documentarian Waldemar Januszczak to explore some of the highlights of the Castle's painting collection. Waldemar talks about the importance of artists like Canaletto, Van Dyck, Titian and Palma Vecchio, all of whom have works displayed in Alnwick Castle's State Rooms. We pay special attention to William Dobson, the 'lost genius of British art', whose self-portrait at Alnwick is one of Waldemar's favourite paintings.You can see images of the artworks discussed in this episode on the Alnwick Castle Facebook...
2022-04-0643 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast6 - The Castle: A History - with John GoodallOn the latest episode of the Alnwick Castle Podcast, we are joined by architectural historian and author John Goodall to talk all about castles!As the writer of The English Castle and, most recently, The Castle: A History, there was nobody better for our host Daniel to speak to about castles and what makes Alnwick Castle such a special one. Daniel and John discuss the myths and legends that surround castles, their restorations, and their place in the landscape of Britain among many other things.John Goodall's latest book, The Castle: A History, is available now...
2022-03-2325 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast5 - The 1st Duke and Duchess of Northumberland - with Adriano AymoninoEpisode 5 of the Alnwick Castle Podcast takes us back in time to Georgian England, as host Daniel speaks to Dr Adriano Aymonino of the University of Buckingham about the 1st Duke and Duchess of Northumberland, one of the most important couples of the 18th century.Adriano's research, culminating in the 2021 book Enlightened Eclecticism, has shed new light on the 1st Duke and Duchess' importance as collectors and patrons, their status in Georgian society, and their impact on buildings like Alnwick Castle, which was completely restored during their lifetimes.You can purchase Enlightened Eclecticism now from Yale...
2022-03-0934 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast4 - Alnwick Castle and Falconry - with Raphael Historic FalconryOn this episode of the Alnwick Castle podcast, our host Daniel speaks to Emma from Raphael Historic Falconry about the long history of castles and birds of prey. We explore the heritage of falconry, what is required to perform displays at places like Alnwick Castle, and plenty more besides!See alnwickcastle.com for more information on when you can see the birds of Raphael Historic Falconry perform at the castle. If you enjoyed the episode, please subscribe, give us a review or a five star rating, and recommend the Alnwick Castle podcast to your friends!Get in...
2022-02-2327 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast3 - Alnwick Castle and Film - with Helen O'HaraOn this episode of the Alnwick Castle Podcast, we are joined by a very special guest to talk about the castle's use as a filming location, and some of the movies that have been made at Alnwick. Film journalist and author Helen O'Hara speaks to our host Daniel Watkins about the benefits of making films on location, great actors like Cate Blanchett and Alan Rickman (whose films have been made, in part, at Alnwick Castle), movie castles and libraries, vampires, and famous historical figures on film - from Robin Hood to Elizabeth I!You can listen to Helen...
2022-02-0934 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast2 - A Brief History of the Percy familyIn Episode 2 of the Alnwick Castle Podcast, we move from looking at the history of the castle itself to the history of the Percy family, now known as the Dukes and Duchesses of Northumberland, who have owned Alnwick Castle for more than 700 years. Join host Daniel as he tracks the story of the 'Lions of the North' from their beginnings in Norman England, through medieval and Tudor rebellions, to the finery of the Georgian and Victorian eras and beyond.This episode was reuploaded following some technical glitches with its original version - please delete and redownload to...
2022-01-2816 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast2 - A Brief History of the Percy familyThe Percy family, now known as the Dukes and Duchesses of Northumberland, have owned Alnwick Castle for more than 700 years; their history is as linked to the castle as it is to major events in British history, from the Wars of the Roses and the courts of the Tudor kings and queens, to the Gunpowder Plot and the Napoleonic Wars. In this episode of the Alnwick Castle Podcast, host Daniel Watkins looks at some of that family history, with glimpses into the lives of Percys over time, like the Norman heiress Agnes, medieval rebel Harry Hotspur, Tudor lord Henry...
2022-01-0516 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle Podcast1 - A Brief History of Alnwick CastleWelcome to episode 1 of the Alnwick Castle Podcast! Join host Daniel Watkins as he explores the history of Alnwick Castle, one of North East England's most famous heritage and visitor attractions and a place with connections to many famous events and figures from the past 1000 years of British history. From its beginnings as a Norman fortress to its current status as a family home of the Duke of Northumberland, Alnwick Castle has seen many changes and you'll hear about them in this podcast.Make sure to subscribe to the Alnwick Castle Podcast so you never miss an episode...
2022-01-0514 minThe Alnwick Castle Podcast
The Alnwick Castle PodcastIntroductionThe Alnwick Castle Podcast is here! In this brief introductory episode, host Daniel Watkins explains some of the things you can expect to hear in future episodes of the Alnwick Castle Podcast - from the history of the castle and the Percy family, who have lived there for over 700 years, to stories connected to Alnwick Castle, ranging from medieval falconry to military history to the worlds of magic and witchcraft seen through the castle's use as a filming location.Make sure to subscribe to the Alnwick Castle Podcast so you don't miss an episode, and let us know...
2022-01-0501 minCultural Peeps Podcast
Cultural Peeps PodcastEpisode 16: Daniel Watkins (State Rooms Manager - Alnwick Castle)Links to Podcast Content Alnwick Castle: https://www.alnwickcastle.com/ Harry Potter: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harry_Potter Downton Abbey: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Downton_Abbey Transformers - The Last Knight: https://www.alnwickcastle.com/explore/on-screen/transformers https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transformers:_The_Last_Knight Duke of Northumberland: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Duke_of_Northumberland BBC Great Painting Challenge: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b08fn9p2 Antiques Roadshow: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b006mj2y Palaeontology: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paleontology Jurassic Park: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jurassic_Park...
2019-08-081h 16