Douglas Wrattle - Podcast Details

Shows

History for You with Douglas and Hugh Christmas Special: You're Invited to a Roman and Victorian CelebrationWith the Winter Solstice firmly in our rearview mirror, we round out the year with an especially festive episode! Hugh cordially invites you and Douglas to the Roman Midwinter celebration of Saturnalia, which sowed the seeds of many Christmas traditions we enjoy to this day. Then we exchange gifts as Douglas returns the favour by taking you and Hugh through a typical Victorian working class Christmas eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day. And you're all invited to a special Christmas quiz at the Ferret and Trouserleg in Lavenham. God bless us, everyone!

2025-12-2237 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh The Spanish InquisitionTremble, listener. This episode brings together some of history's most horrific characters - including both James Corden and Piers Morgan. You have been warned....Join Douglas and Hugh as they explore the reign of terror that is the Spanish Inquisition. Expect bloodshed, persecution, torture and grisly death. But who were they, who were they after, and how did you become an Inquisitor?You'll also discover how Douglas got himself a four-legged friend and what's gone horribly wrong in Hugh's kitchen. You have been warned..again.

2025-12-1133 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh The Hanging Gardens of BabylonWe already excavated the Great Pyramid of Giza, so it would be remiss of us not to take a look at the remaining six of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. So we did. And we have. And this is the next.Just what made the Hanging Gardens of Babylon so wondrous? What made them Hanging? Where is Babylon anyway? Did they even exist? And who got to decide the Seven Wonders anyway? So many questions...and we have the answers! Use your ears to discover the truth...

2025-11-2737 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh Marco Polo and the Silk RoadImagine a journey across most of the known world, where wondrous things can be bought and sold. And we're not talking about Sunday's jumble sale in the village hall. Yes, Douglas and Hugh are off on another travelling adventure, this time exploring the Silk Road, and diving into the life and times of Marco Polo, who may or may not have made everything up while staying at home on the sofa eating crisps.Join us as we trade in silks, spices, religion and just about anything your heart desires...

2025-11-1233 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh The Moon Landing: How America Won the Space RaceThis is one small step for our pod, one giant leap for mankind...Join us as the furiously exciting space race reaches its inevitable climax with the 1969 Apollo 11 mission, AKA The Moon Landing. The names of Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin and Michael Collins will be remembered and celebrated forever, but it did you know it was nearly three very entirely different people altogether? Find out who by using your ears...------History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a spoof comedy podcast about history...

2025-10-2935 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh Animals in Space: Fleas, Dogs and Exploding MonkeysPart Two of our epic Space Race saga will astound you. Not only will you learn about all the creatures that were sent into orbit by the Americans and the Russians, you'll also finally learn which is the best pasta to eat in zero gravity. And who doesn't want to know that?------History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a spoof comedy podcast about history written, performed and produced by Adrian Mackinder and James Devonshire, with music by Mike Jones. Let us know your thoughts and suggestions for f...

2025-10-1540 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh Space Exploration: The Race is On!Time to boldly go where no one has gone before. Grab your flight suit, strap yourself to your rocket and buckle the hell up. Douglas and Hugh are taking you through the early years of space travel.Picture the scene: it's the birth of the Cold War and the heat is on between Russia and the United States. Who will get into space first? And how far are they prepared to go to get there? Well, as it turns out, quite far. Too far? You decide!How did the...

2025-10-0136 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh The Ancient Pyramids of GizaStanding alone in the desert for thousands of years, The three gigantic Pyramids of Giza in Egypt have captivated our minds and filled our souls with wonder. But why are they there? What's inside? Who built them? How did they do it? What are they for - pharaohs, gods...or aliens?So many questions...well Douglas and Hugh have the answers! Join us as we unwrap the bandages of truth from the mummy of myth.Discover what these pyramids have to do with Jaffa Cakes. Marvel at the outbreak...

2025-09-1736 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh Queen Victoria and Prince AlbertThere have been few romances as powerful as the love shared between Queen Victoria and her Prince Consort Albert. Some have come close. Anthony and Cleopatra. Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton. Bert and Ernie...But none can hold a candle to the lust, love and loss that defines the marriage between the most powerful woman in the history of the world, and a German man.Join Douglas and Hugh as they rummage through drawers to find love letters, erotic post cards and dirty drawings shared between the two, as well as diving into their early...

2025-06-1536 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh King Richard the LionheartOne of the most famous Kings of England. He was French, but we don't hold that against him too much. Join Douglas and Hugh as they "Take the Cross" and draw swords against the most famous medieval monarch named after a massive cat. Discover how he really got his name, how he accidentally became king, why he hated his father, and why Douglas believes Richard's rivalry with arch nemesis Saladin is on a par with his own relationship with a certain pub landlord in Lavenham...------History for You with Douglas and Hugh...

2025-05-1537 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh Vikings!It's been a long time coming, but it's finally here. Douglas and Hugh have finally decided to tackle those vicious, bloodthirsty Nordic warriors. But were they really vicious and bloodthirsty? Time to pillage truth from the village of myth. We've also compiled a run down of the top ten most iconic vikings who ever lived. And some who probably didn't. What a treat. So pull up a longship, sup on your horns of mead and prepare yourself for sagas untold!------History for You with Douglas and...

2025-05-0133 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh Sir Winston Churchill: Part Two - The Not As Early YearsWar! Europe is crumbling under attacks by the ruthless Kaiser Wilhelm. There are heroes on both sides. Evil is everywhere. But whither, you may ask, is WINSTON CHURCHILL? Well, that's what Douglas and Hugh reveal as they continue their informed and unbiased account of the man some believe to be BRITAIN'S GREATEST BRITISH PERSON.This thrilling episode follows the political and military career of Winnie during the First World War. And what a tale it is. One of astonishing highs and catastrophic lows...You'll also discover if there's ben any fallout...

2025-04-1636 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh Sir Winston Churchill: Part One - The Early YearsMany consider Winston Churchill to be the greatest British human who ever lived. But was he, when it comes down to it, a massive bellend? Come with us brave time traveller, and join Douglas and Hugh on the first part of an epic journey as they debate the life, deeds, beliefs, politics and legacy of the man who helped shape the twentieth century. Also, Douglas has some very exciting news. Very exciting indeed...------History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a spoof comedy podcast about history written, performed and produced by Adrian Mackinder...

2025-03-3036 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh House of Medici: The Original Renaissance MafiaIn this episode, Douglas and Hugh take the Hyundai over to Italy where you'll meet the original Godfathers of crime, corruption, extortion, murder and much much more: The Medicis. For centuries, this extravagant gangsta dynasty kept a vicelike grip over Italy -vice being the operative word. Experience their rise and fall, as well as the Humanist world in which they lived and died, better known as The Renaissance. You'll also discover why chafing has forced Hugh to wear short shorts out of season and why Douglas has a real beef with his local florist.

2025-03-0636 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh The Rise and Fall of Orson Welles: Genius or Fake?Lights! Camera! Silence on the set! Tape rolling...3,2,1 ACTION!!This episode follows the unique life of a true titan of cinema: the mighty Orson Welles. Join Douglas and Hugh as they explore this remarkable filmmaker, actor, wit, intellect, lover, bon vivant and consumer of many many pies. From the precocious cinematic genius that changed the medium, to the frustrated raconteur who became an extra large, we leave no stone unturned. Discover how Welles convinced a nation that the martians were coming all over them, how he annoyed media mogul William Randolph Hearst and why Douglas...

2025-02-1939 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh The Rise and Fall of Newspaper Mogul William Randolph HearstImagine a time when wealthy, privileged bullies controlled the minds of millions by making up stories to publish in their rotten newspapers. A time when rich old men married young aspiring Hollywood starlets and wild zebras roamed the hills of California.... STOP THE PRESS!! We're back! In the first episode of 2025, Douglas and Hugh present the rise and fall of the world's first notorious international media mogul, American newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst. Discover how Hearst built his name during the final years of the nineteenth century, fought a bitter newspaper war with rival Joseph...

2025-01-2936 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh Outtakes and Bloopers 2024As is now tradition (i.e. we did it once before, last year), here's a bonus Christmas present: five minutes of us failing to keep it together. A MASSIVE THANK YOU to all of you who have listened to our silly little show throughout the year. We don't run ads, we don't make a penny on these shows, we do it for the love of history, sending up history and sending up those history podcast presenters a bit too keen on the sound of their own voices. You know who you are.

2024-12-2504 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh Christmas Compilation: Part ThreeSeason's greetings! For our third and final Christmas compilation - and the last full-length episode of 2024 - Douglas and Hugh unwrap the gift of truth from under the Christmas tree of lies. In this slice of historical Yule log, you'll discover the erotic side of XXXmas, the REAL reason we have a dying pine tree in the corner of our living room ever December, how Queen Victoria's bareknuckle prowess gave Boxing Day its name and the origins of that horrific festive tradition: panto. Warning. This episode contains nuts. ------

2024-12-1945 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh Christmas Compilation: Part TwoSeason's greetings! Welcome to the second of our Holy Trinity of festive specials, where we take our collected Christmas mini episodes from the archive and smush them together into full-length episodes to get you through the Yuletide period. In this episode Douglas and Hugh tuck in to the history of Christmas food and drink throughout the ages, the world's weirdest Christmas rituals, the truth behind the Nativity and iconic Victorian Christmas traditions. You'll finally discover the real difference between a current and a raisin, why egg nog is actually called egg nog and why there...

2024-12-1155 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh Christmas Compilation: Part OneLast Christmas we gave you our hearts. We recorded twelve mini-episodes all about different aspects of the festive period - and they were incredible. So this year, because we're both going on holiday (separately, you understand), Hugh has asked his nephew Gavin to cut these episodes together into a trio of full-length episodes for your ears. And this is the first. In this episode, expect a staggeringly incisive analysis of Christmas carols, the Roman origins of Christmas and everything we know - and don't know - about the big man himself: Father Christmas (or Santa...

2024-12-0344 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh The Great Exhibition and the Crystal PalaceIn 1851, Prince Albert, Royal Consort to Queen Victoria, held a magnificent celebration of his adopted homeland. Think Cool Britannia only less cocaine and more things stolen from other countries. To house this Great Exhibition, he had built an enormous Crystal Palace, a marvel of Victorian architecture and a shrine to Empire, excess and elephants. Today, not a single shard of glass from this vast building remains. Why? What happened? And what exactly was inside its shimmering walls? Don't get upset. Douglas and Hugh are about to open the doors and lead you inside this enormous nineteenth century...

2024-11-2730 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh Tutankhamen and the Curse of the PharaohsGrab your pickaxe, we're going digging! Let Douglas and Hugh take you back to Egypt, at once thousands of years, and then just over a century ago, as we expose the life of the most famous Egyptian king Tutankhamen - a life tragically cut short. We then flash forward to Howard Carter and Lord Carnarvon uncovering King Tut's majestic tomb in the Valley of the Kings, which came with all the mod cons you expect from a royal burial chamber - and a terrible TERRIBLE curse. Or so they say... Talking of dangerous mummies, Douglas also reveals...

2024-11-1340 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh A Wicked History of WitchcraftWe're back for another Halloween special episode for the Spooky Season and Douglas and Hugh are delving into the mucky and grim history of witchcraft in Europe. Why were so many men so scared of women? Which King of England wrote arguably the definitive book on witches, warlocks, demons, goblins and imps? And what terrible secret has Douglas unearthed in his loft? All will be revealed if you lend us your ears... ------ History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a comedy podcast about history written, performed and produced by Adrian...

2024-10-3036 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh Spooky Season Special: Hampton Court PalaceThis episode has divided Douglas and Hugh. The former believes it to be a Halloween special, the latter insists that it isn't. As ever, you be the judge! Prepare for an unforgettable trip back to Tudor England as we guide you inside Hampton Court, arguably the most famous British royal palace that doesn't have an actual royal currently living in it. We invite you to tiptoe nervously through its grand arches, mind-boggling maze, candlelit chapels, bustling kitchens and decadent chambers, you might just experience the odd ghostly apparition, mysterious sound and unexplained phenomenon. Listen. If...

2024-10-1635 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh The Genius of Leonardo da VinciThe term "genius" is banded around all too casually these days. Very few deserve the title. But this man definitely does. Artist. Anatomist. Engineer. Aviator. Gardener. There was nothing Leonardo da Vinci couldn't do. If he were alive today, he'd probably also be an excellent podcaster. But he isn't, so you're going to have to make do with Douglas and Hugh. In this episode, we examine the world of Leonardo da Vinci. The Mona Lisa. The Last Supper. The helicopter. All singular creations, all from the same massive brain. Come join us as we...

2024-10-0239 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh Prohibition, the Mob and the Rise and Fall of Al CaponeIn this obscenely violent episode, Douglas and Hugh become a pair of American wise guys as they blow the lid off bootlegging on the streets of New York and Chicago during the 1920s and 30s. A time where crime most definitely DID pay. A time of Prohibition. Discover how Al Capone rose through the ranks of street hoodlums to become the most notorious gangster who ever lived, how Hugh managed a forty a day smoking habit before he was twelve, why Douglas has cancelled al plans for an extension to his extension, and why...

2024-09-1833 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh The History of the MotorcarWe've all seen one. We've all been in one. Doulgas frequently crashes one. But who actually invented the car? And how the hell did we manage without them? From donkeys to horsepower, from Henry Ford's Model T to where all self-driving cars go to die, Douglas and Hugh take you on a crash course through the complete history of the car. So buckle up, it's a bumpy road ahead! ------ History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a comedy podcast about history written, performed and produced by Adrian Mackinder and James Devonshire, with music...

2024-09-0436 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh Aviation and the Magnificent History of FlightAs it's still the summer holidays, brace yourself. These are your captains speaking. Douglas and his co-pilot Hugh will now take your ears through the many thrilling attempts by humanity to take to the skies. From trying to harness owls and heated air to the sheer misery of your average budget airline, strap yourself in for the flight of your life as we leave nothing behind in the terminal. Oh and you'll never guess what Douglas found in the compost heap. The horror...the horror... ------ History for You with Douglas...

2024-08-2137 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh Listener Request: Queen Elizabeth the FirstShe was the last Tudor monarch who ushered in a Golden Age for her country - without even needing to score any goals in a major international tournament. In fact, she was actually able to defeat the Spanish. Join Douglas and Hugh as they unravel the extraordinary life of Queen Elizabeth I of England. Discover the plots on her life, the pretenders to her throne and whether or not she could be a convincing TV weather presenter. It's all here - and more - in another action-packed listener-requested episode of the greatest pod in...

2024-08-0737 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh Vampires: Myths, Folklore and the "Real Dracula", Vlad The ImpalerIn this episode of the BEST HISTORY PODCAST EVER MADE, Douglas and Hugh cross oceans to time to find you, and boldly become vampire hunters! Join them as they dig up the myths and legends that gave rise to belief in vampires and the undead. They will debunk vampire lore (garlic, crucifixes, sunlight, holy water). They will also introduce the real life historical figure that inspired Irish novelist Bram Stoker to write Dracula: fifteenth century voivoide of Wallachia, Vlad Tepes, AKA Vlad the Impaler. National hero or bloodthirsty monster? You decide!

2024-07-2443 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh The Three Musketeers and the Extraordinary Life of Alexandre DumasEn Guard! Strap on your sword, rapier and whatever flintlock pistol you may have about your person. Douglas and Hugh invite you to enlist in the French King's most elite fighting force, The Three Musketeers! But who were the real-life swashbucklers? What did they do to inspire legendary French playwright and author Alexandre Dumas to write his iconic novel? And what of the man himself? Experience a life as large and colourful as the characters he wrote about. You'll also learn why it's crucial to check if the back doors of a...

2024-07-1031 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh Debunk Special: Area 51, the Roswell Incident and Alien Conspiracy TheoriesIn this week's episode, Douglas and Hugh put on their foil hats and x-ray specs as they travel back to the 1950s in search of...ALIENS! But because this is a bona fide history podcast, Our very own Mulder and Scully don't want to believe, they want to know - and they're not afraid to expose themselves in the process. What REALLY happened on that hillside in Roswell, New Mexico? What's REALLY inside Area 51? And what about the other 50 areas?! The truth is out there...and we've found it! ----

2024-06-2634 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh The Mystery of Stonehenge and the DruidsAs we approach the halfway point in the year for the Summer Solstice on June 21st, Douglas and Hugh travel to Stonehenge, the most famous of all the henges, and one of England's most ancient, celebrated and fascinating landmarks. They also reveal the true identity of the people who worshipped at this hallowed site: the Druids. Who REALLY built Stonehenge? What was it for? And how do you get an elderly woman off the kitchen floor without further injury? All will be revealed - and more - in another spectacular episode! ------ History...

2024-06-1932 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh The Knights TemplarsWho were the Knights Templars? What is their connection with The Holy Grail? And why was Douglas and Hugh refused entry into Shingles nightclub on the High Street? All will be revealed - and more - when we remove the chainmail of mystery to expose the flabby pink flesh of truth. Gasp with pleasure as you learn of their special role in the Crusades. Groan with excitement as we uncover the secrets kept by this medieval order of warrior monks, and whimper with bottled-up frustration as we unveil their lasting legacy. ------

2024-06-1231 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh The Lost Ark of the CovenantThe Ark of the Covenant is one of the world's most famous archaeological prizes. But what actually is it? Does it even exist? And if so, can it really melt your face off? Douglas and Hugh don their fedoras, grab their bullwhips and steer clear of snakes as they raid the truth behind this most holy of holy relics. Discover the Ark's biblical origins, why it got lost and where it may currently reside. Douglas will also reveal his own version of the Ten Commandments. Fingers crossed it doesn't invoke God's wrath...

2024-06-0534 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh The Erotic Adventures of Catherine the GreatFew monarchs have been plagued by so many scurrilous rumours as this one. Catherine the Great was Empress of Russia during the back end of the eighteenth century and under her long reign, she is said to have transformed her country for the better. She was also rumoured to be obsessed with nookie, took an army of lovers and fell foul of a proud horse. But is there any truth in these stories? Join Douglas and Hugh as they unsheathe their fact sticks and probe the past for answers. ------

2024-05-2928 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh William ShakespeareTo listen or not to listen. THAT is the question. And the answer is, of course, yes. In this episode, Douglas and Hugh tackle another of history's big hitters: William Shakespeare. Writer of such incredible works such as Romeo and Juliet, Hamlet and Slippery When Wet. The most famous playwright who ever lived, but what do we know about the man behind the curtain? What inspired him? How did he become so famous? Where did he buy his quills? All will be revealed in this most theatrical episode. ------ History for You with Douglas and...

2024-05-2232 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh The Palace of Versailles and King Louis XIVIf you met a king, would you bow and curtsy, or punch him in the face? Fortunately, Douglas and Hugh know EXACTLY what to do, and they're about to tell you. We cordially invite you to sup with King Louis XIV of France at the royal palace of Versailles - but for Christ sake, remember the RULES! Because if you don't...well. There will be trouble. From what to wear, what to say and how to behave, here's the lowdown on all the ridiculous ways you can impress a pompous 17th century French monarch with a god complex.

2024-05-1534 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh Florence NightingaleWith International Nurses Day right round the corner, in this episode, Douglas and Hugh shine a lamp on the celebrated Victorian social reformer, statistician and founder of modern nursing: Florence Nightingale. Flo's revolutionary "common sense" approach saved the lives of thousands of soldiers during the Crimean War and changed the face of how we stop sick people from dying. You'll also get a lowdown on the new Chinese restaurant that's just opened round the corner, if the French actually do smell of garlic and why Douglas loves to hang around the toilets of the WI.

2024-05-0832 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh Buffalo Bill and the Wild Wild WestWe're back! One becomes two as Hugh rejoins Douglas for another cracking episode, fresh from his nautical misadventure. Prepare to be amazed as Hugh reveals what actually happened on that ferry after the Taylor Swift concert. And then, strap on your peacemakers and mount your steed. We are galloping across the Great Plains to meet William "Buffalo Bill" Cody - a soldier, scout, hunter, showman and mass murdering moustachioed ringmaster. Buffalo Bill gave us much of what we think of when we think of the Wild West, but what do we really think of when we think...

2024-05-0135 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh Special News Update: Hugh's Safety and Your TweetsThis is a public service announcement. Sadly we cannot bring you our regularly scheduled episode due to the fact Hugh is..well, you should really listen to this. But don't worry, all is well, he's safe, albeit slightly adrift. Fortunately Douglas is here to hold the fort, where he answers some of YOUR questions and concerns that YOU submitted to us. So enjoy this little mini-episode and we shall resume our regular service in a matter of days. Thanks for listening. ------ History for You with Douglas...

2024-04-1709 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh The Rise and Fall of Roman GladiatorsIf you were in the Colosseum, what animal would you fight? What weapon would you wield? Travel back to Ancient Rome as Douglas and Hugh reveal their preferred creature to dispatch, why Gladiators were treated like rock stars and then fell out of favour, and why Douglas' son has got his hand stuck behind the temporary shed. Thumbs or thumbs down, let us know your thoughts! ------ History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a comedy podcast about history - entirely written, performed and produced by Adrian Mackinder...

2024-04-0338 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh Genghis Khan and the Terrifying Mongol EmpireWe venture into uncharted waters this episode as Douglas and Hugh expose themselves. Not literally. Neither of them know much about Genghis Khan the legendary Mongol warrior/emperor/ king/mass murderer/serial adulterer. But of course, they still know more than you, so strap yourself in as we travel back to quake in the might of the man responsible for founding the largest contiguous empire in the history of everything. ------ History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a comedy podcast about history written, performed and produced by Adrian Mackinder and James Devonshire, with...

2024-03-2042 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh CleopatraThe relationship between Cleopatra of Egypt and Mark Antony of Rome is one of the great romances in human history - much like Hugh's marriage, only not at all. Join us as we reach back to antiquity and uncover the real woman behind the legendary Queen. Discover why everyone in Egypt had the same name. Marvel at how Cleo was able to marry her relatives, have an affair with Julius Caesar AND deliver over a thousand children. And titter as you hear about the saucy Euro camping holiday Douglas and Hugh shared as...

2024-03-0639 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh Dick Turpin, Highwaymen and Public ExecutionsSTAND AND DELIVER! YOU'RE MONEY OR YOUR WIFE!! That's right. We're galloping back to the golden age of highway robbery. While the most famous mounted cad was Dick Turpin, there were others equally notorious and nefarious. Discover the many types of murderous highwaymen and women who roamed the English countryside during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. Recoil in horror as Douglas and Hugh also unveil what grisly justice awaited them when they were all eventually caught. Chilling. ------ History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a comedy podcast about history written, performed and produced...

2024-02-2135 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh The Black Death and The Great Fire of LondonThis episode you get two for the price of one! Douglas and Hugh discover what REALLY caused the Great Plague, otherwise known as the Black Death. Then we cough and splutter our way to Pudding Lane, where one of the greatest catastrophes to ever hit England's fair capital began: The Great Fire of London. But how many people actually perished? Which buildings were incinerated? And what does women's urine have to do with it? All will be revealed... ------ History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a comedy podcast about history written, performed and...

2024-02-0738 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh Listener Request: The Great StinkAnother request from one of our loyal listeners, and you better hold your nose for this one! Douglas and Hugh are taking you back to Victorian London, which was so filled with poo, dead bodies, disease and general filth you'd think you were in France. Join us as we sniff out the Great Stink of 1858. What was it? What caused it? and how many pine cone air fresheners were needed to get rid of it? All will be revealed in an episode that quite literally has gone straight down the toilet. ----

2024-01-2439 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh Listener Request: Robin HoodWe kick off 2024 with an episode suggested by one of our keen fans. We do that, by the way. So if you want to hear our take on a historical person or event that tickles your fancy, drop us a line either in the comments where you get your podcasts or via our social channels listed below. Anyway, this episode is about England's most famous outlaw, Robin Hood - and things get pretty testy between Douglas and Hugh over whether or not he ever existed and, therefore, if this even constitutes a historical topic...

2024-01-1039 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh Christmas Bonus: Outtakes and BloopersA HUGE historical thank you to all of you who have found, listened, recommended and supported History For You since we launched only four months ago. We have fun making these, hope you enjoy listening to them half as much. We wish you a merry Christmas, happy New Year and hope you will enjoy many more episodes to come. Until then, as a special treat, here's another bonus festive gift: four minutes of us not being able to do this very well at all. -------

2023-12-2504 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh The Twelve Days of Christmas: Day Twelve - The Christmas PantoThis is it. The final day in our midwinter dozen. And what a way to end the year. Oh no it isn't! Oh yes it is! Douglas and Hugh explore the colourful history of the longstanding Christmas tradition of Pantomime, or Panto for short. Minor celebrities, gender reversal, fairy tales...it's "fun for all the family". Oh no it isn't! Or IS it? Join us for the final mini episode and discover our verdict. We hope you've enjoyed our Twelve Days of Christmas. If you have made it this far, give yourself a gold star. Go on...

2023-12-2313 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh The Twelve Days of Christmas: Day Eleven - The Christmas Tree and DecorationsWe're at the home stretch now. Our penultimate bonus episode on the Twelve Days of Christmas is all about why we decorate our homes with tinsel, fairy lights and, of course, that most beloved of our festive ornaments, the Christmas Tree. But can a dead chunk of oversized shrub really make a happy home? And why was Douglas abandoned as a boy to walk Regent Street alone in the cold night air? All will be revealed on this glorious Winter Solstice. ------ History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a comedy podcast about history...

2023-12-2115 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh The Twelve Days of Christmas: Day Ten - Boxing DayWe all know why Christmas Day is called thus. You'd have to be an utter idiot not to. But even clever folk are stumped about Boxing Day. Is it named after the sport? Boxes? Geometry? Who knows? Well. Douglas does and he's about to blow Hugh's - and your mind. Discover the origins of Boxing Day, why Queen Victoria was an excellent prize fighter, and whether or not Hugh is allowed back in the house after the whole "Holly" incident... ------- History for You with Douglas and Hugh is...

2023-12-1911 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh The Twelve Days of Christmas: Day Nine - The Holly and the IvyAs we creep closer to a festive crescendo for the Twelve Days of Christmas, we get acquainted with two bits of common or garden foliage commonly associated with yuletide. But did you know that the historical roots for both the Holly and the Ivy are profoundly erotic? Well they are. Deeply so. Join Douglas and Hugh as they strip away the layers of myth to reveal the undergarments of truth - and hope they don't encounter any nasty pricks along the way... ---- History for You with Douglas and...

2023-12-1716 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh The Twelve Days of Christmas: Day Eight - Charles Dickens and the Victorian ChristmasEver wonder why we have Christmas crackers? Or Christmas cards? Or why elderly relatives eat discarded sprouts off the floor? Well, like so much in the modern world, we owe many festive traditions to the Victorians. And of course, no yuletide is complete without Charles Dickens' immortal classic, A Christmas Carol. Join Douglas and Hugh as they reveal for the first time that earlier drafts of this timeless novella featured many more Muppets than were depicted in the final film. ----- History for You with Douglas and Hugh is...

2023-12-1512 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh The Twelve Days of Christmas: Day Seven - The Nativity of JesusThis is it. The story that started it all. Or DID it? Well, luckily for you, Douglas and Hugh are on hand to reveal the truth behind the Nativity Story, the most famous baby tale ever told. Or IS it? Well, luckily for you, Douglas and Hugh are on hand to reveal just why baby Jesus was born in an animal husband centre. Or WAS he? Well - you get the idea. ------- History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a comedy podcast about history written, performed and...

2023-12-1312 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh The Twelve Days of Christmas: Day Six - Weird Christmas TraditionsDo you leave a mince pie for Santa? Kiss under the mistletoe? Punch a badger? Whatever your festive traditions, you'll love this journey through some of the world's most weird, odd and downright baffling rituals people perform every Christmas. Join Douglas and Hugh as they also explore the even more curious superstitions behind them. You'll never look at a broom the same way again! ---- History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a comedy podcast about history written, performed and produced by Adrian Mackinder and James Devonshire, with...

2023-12-1113 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh The Twelve Days of Christmas: Day Five - Christmas Food and DrinkGrab a napkin - and perhaps a bucket! Time to tickle your tastebuds as Douglas and Hugh take you on a festive taster menu through the ages. All the classic Christmas food and drink gets a sample, from the very first pre Christmas Winter feasts to what we all enjoy round the Yuletide table today. And find out how homemade mulled wine got Douglas out of an awkward legal dispute. To confirm: no charges were pressed. ------- History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a comedy podcast about...

2023-12-0917 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh The Twelve Days of Christmas: Day Four - SantaHe goes by many names. But how does he know if little kiddies are naughty or nice? And who appointed him judge of all children everywhere anyway? Douglas is about to open his sack and hand out truth gifts to everyone, regardless of their behaviour. Meanwhile, Hugh wrestles with an upset stomach for reasons we won't go int here. Day Four in our Twelve Days of Christmas is all about Father Christmas (or to give him his colonial name, Santa Claus). Unwrap and enjoy! ---- History for You with...

2023-12-0717 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh The Twelve Days of Christmas: Day Three - Kings, Wise Men and GiftsHow many kings visited baby Jesus in Bethlehem? Were they really that wise? And why did they bring with them such silly gifts? Join Douglas and Hugh as they follow the star of truth that leads us all to the stable of facts. Unwrap the real meaning of gold, frankincense and myrrh - and discover why school nativity plays are really effective contraceptives. ------ History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a comedy podcast about history, written, performed and produced by Adrian Mackinder and James Devonshire, with music by Mike Jones. Let u...

2023-12-0510 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh The Twelve Days of Christmas: Day Two - SaturnaliaBet you thought the paper crown in your Christmas cracker was because of the Three Kings? Well, think again. Then be astounded, confounded and dumbfounded as we unwrap the second of our Twelve Days of Christmas mini episodes. In this festive frolic, our two esteemed historians look back at the Roman pagan festival of Saturnalia, which gave us so many Christmas traditions. This is also a very special episode because it is the first time that Douglas actually annoys Hugh. Expect fireworks. ------ History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a comedy podcast about...

2023-12-0311 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh The Twelve Days of Christmas: Day One - CarolsWe kick off our dozen Christmas mini episodes for the festive season with this cracker! We all know the tunes, we pretend to know the lyrics, but what do we really know about Christmas Carols? Well, Hugh is about to gift Douglas - and all you merry gentlefolk - with some baubles of truth that will illuminate the tree of confusion. WARNING: this episode contains aggressive wassailing and a nasty case of shingles. -------- History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a comedy podcast about history written, performed...

2023-12-0116 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh Napoleon Bonaparte - Part TwoThis is it. The Big Fight. This epic tale reaches its thrilling conclusion with the iconic Battle of Waterloo, which put an end to little tiny Napoleon and his special exo-suit. Why did Nappy surrender? Why was the Duke of Wellington such a total git? And what does no one talk about Gebhard Leberecht von Blücher? History may have forgotten him, but Douglas and Hugh certainly haven't! Shove this in your ears and enjoy the ride! ----- History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a comedy podcast a...

2023-11-2430 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh Napoleon Bonaparte - Part OneThe rise and fall of Napoleon Bonaparte is a truly epic tale. So epic, Douglas and Hugh need two episodes to uncover the man behind the myth. The leader behind the legend. Just how short was he? Did he really write erotic fiction? And where did he get those fabulous hats? From his birth on the island of Corsica to his decisive defeat at the Battle of Waterloo, prepare to have the infantry of lies blown away by the cannons of truth. Enjoy part one of two, right now! -----

2023-11-2226 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh Jack the Ripper and the Autumn of TerrorIn 1888, the slums of London's East End were gripped by fear. An unknown murderer lurked the lamplit streets and fog-filled alleys, committing foul deeds and even worse penmanship. The name? Jack the Ripper!!!! Join Douglas and Hugh as they walk the trail of history's most notorious serial killer, only to discover that there were several other murderers operating in Whitechapel at that time. But who were they? And marvel as Douglas reads out never-before-read-out letters sent by the killer to the press. And why did so many people in Victorian London smell of trout..?

2023-11-0832 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh Bonfire Night Special: The Gunpowder Plot"Remember, Remember The Fifth of November..." This explosive episode sees Douglas and Hugh take you back to the Autumn of 1605, where they place thirty six barrels of truthpowder under the Houses of History and light the fuse. Discover why Guy Fawkes and the rest of the Gunpowder plotters failed to blow up the English Parliament, how King James had exceedingly large nostrils and why people have been shoving paella through Douglas' letter box.. --------- History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a comedy podcast about history written, performed and produced...

2023-11-0132 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh Halloween Special: Ghosts and HauntingsJoin Douglas Wrattle and Hugh Canard for a decidedly spooky episode about things that go bump in the night. From Victorian séances and bare bottoms in Bermondsey to satanic ungulates and pro-celebrity debunker Harry Price, we suggest you draw the curtains, dim the lights and hide behind the sofa. Not in that order. TRIGGER WARNING: This episode features at least one phantom chicken. ---------- History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a comedy podcast about history written, performed and produced by Adrian Mackinder and James Devonshire, with music by Mike Jones. Le...

2023-10-3042 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh No Trick Two Treats: Double Event TrailerThe days grow shorter, the shadows longer, the leaves are falling and our breath swirls and dissipates in the night air. This time of year is all rather magical - and spooky! To celebrate the rapidly approaching Halloween on October 31st and Bonfire Night on November 5th, we are releasing two episodes within a week of each other...here's a teaser! History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a comedy podcast about history written, performed and produced by Adrian Mackinder and James Devonshire, with music by Mike Jones.

2023-10-3001 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh The Legend of King ArthurDouglas and Hugh take a seat at the Round Table to drink from the Holy Grail. Custard! Baked Beans! How do these kitchen larder staples stack up in the story of Arthur? The once and future podcast History For You takes a dip with the Lady of the Lake and doggy paddles through the misty mythical moat of Camelot to bring you all the stuff. -------- History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a comedy podcast about history written, performed and produced by Adrian Mackinder and James Devonshire, with music by Mike...

2023-10-3032 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh 1066 - The Battle of Hastings and the Norman ConquestMen named by dogs! Boobie pens! New Build Housing in Hereford! Douglas and Hugh take you on a day trip to Hastings in 1066 for the first royal rivalry between a William and Harry. Learn all the things about 1066: The Battle of Hastings with Douglas and Hugh on History for You. ---- History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a comedy podcast about history written, performed and produced by Adrian Mackinder and James Devonshire, with music by Mike Jones. Let us know your thoughts and s...

2023-10-3036 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh King Henry VIII and his Six WivesDouglas and Hugh lose their history heads in the Tudor dynasty. More men named by dogs! Why you should always kiss your delivery men! The trouble of two Thomases! Join History For You as they take on everyone’s favourite ginger nutter, Fat Hank, friary flip-flopper, Tinder terroriser and royal sponsor of axe murderers everywhere. --- History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a comedy podcast about history written, performed and produced by Adrian Mackinder and James Devonshire, with music by Mike Jones. Let us...

2023-10-3034 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh Boudica: Warrior Queen of the IceniNothing stirs the blood like an uprising! Douglas and Hugh grapple with one of history's most formidable warrior women and reveal why she took on the might of the Roman Empire - and almost won. This episode invites you to get under the skin of a true British national heroine in an iconic tale of blood, Essex, heavy metal and Harry Potter! --- History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a comedy podcast about history written, performed and produced by Adrian Mackinder and...

2023-10-3028 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh Pirates!Avast! Join us aboard the Queen Anne's Revenge as Douglas and Hugh set sail across time in search of pirates! Discover such despicable crimes as murdering someone with a bucket, how the roaring spice trade enabled a golden age of marine skullduggery, and come ear to face with old flaming Blackbeard himself, Edward Teach! History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a comedy podcast about history written, performed and produced by Adrian Mackinder and James Devonshire, with music by Mike Jones. Let us know your thoughts and suggestions for future episodes. Co...

2023-10-3036 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh Season One TrailerSeason One of the brand new comedy history podcast launches on Wednesday September 13th. And because we're feeling generous, we're dropping the first three episodes all at once. In the meantime, here's an extended sneak peek. Tally ho!

2023-09-0602 min

History for You with Douglas and Hugh Season One TeaserSeason One of the new comedy podcast, History for You with Douglas and Hugh, launches September 13th. Here's a teaser...

2023-09-0101 min