Falconry through the ages
Exclusively for Members, Emma Raphael from Raphael Historic Falconry takes a fascinating look at falconry through the ages, from Romans to Victorians via the Saxons, medieval age and Tudors.
Filmed at Audley End House and Gardens in Essex, Emma is joined by her husband Mike and a plethora of birds including a Merlin and Gyrfalcon to a Barn Owl and Golden Eagle.
Discover the fascinating history of birds of prey and their role in England's story.
Meet the Experts
From falconry to cookery, and even historical make-up, our experts help us to bring to life the fascinating stories of our sites. Meet some of those 'in the know' as they share their knowledge and experiences with us.
Find out moreSongs of England
In this video series in collaboration with The Nest Collective, we explore the stories behind traditional English folk songs that have connections to historic places.
Join Matt Thompson and Sam Lee for the eleventh episode as they discuss 'The Lady of Carlisle' which tells the tale of a woman – courted by two men – who tests her suitors with a dangerous trial of courage in a den of beasts. The song has been paired with England's most beseiged castle: Carlisle Castle in Cumbria.
-
Salisbury Plain
Join Sam Lee and Matt Thompson as they discuss the song 'Salisbury Plain' set on the vast landscape of the same name.
-
A Ship To Old England Came
Join Sam Lee and Matt Thompson as they discuss a song whose lyrics speak of the long naval history of Dover Castle.
-
The Bedfordshire May Carol
Sam Lee and Matt Thompson talk about this traditional May carol, performed in days gone by on the doorsteps of homes such as Wrest Park.
-
High Germany
Join Sam Lee and Matt Thompson as they discuss a song that evokes the many partings that have taken place at Pendennis Castle over the centuries.
-
John Barleycorn
Join Sam Lee and Matt Thompson as they discuss a song about a fictional man's murder and burial, with Stonehenge a fitting match for this dark tale.
-
The Four Loom Weaver
Join Sam Lee and Matt Thompson as they discuss 'The Four Loom Weaver', a traditional song that reflects the Industrial Revolution and the Iron Bridge.
-
The Old Garden Gate
Join Sam Lee and Matt Thompson as they discuss 'The Old Garden Gate', a mournful tale inspired by Audley End House and Gardens.
-
When Fortune Turns the Wheel
Join Sam Lee and Matt Thompson as they discuss 'When Fortune Turns the Wheel', a traditional parting song inspired by Hadrian's Wall.
-
Sweet Nightingale, Tintagel Castle
Join Sam Lee and Matt Thompson as they discuss 'Sweet Nightingale', thought to have been imported from Germany by Cornish tin miners in the 1800s.
-
The Whitby Lad, Whitby Abbey
Join Sam Lee and Matt Thompson as they examine the musical tale of the 'Whitby Lad', a wayward boy sentenced to life in a penal colony in Australia.
History Rediscovered
Our expert historians and curators provide the most up-to-date insights, unveiling the secrets of some of the most important historic sites in the country. We invite you to step into England's story with historical articles and features created especially for you.
Rediscover HistoryInspiration for your next visit
With hundreds of historic properties in our care we're never short of ideas for places you can explore, whatever your interests, whatever the time of year. Discover new routes with our range of walking guides, or pick up tips from other Members on where's good for entertaining the family.
Find inspirationMembers' magazine
Read the latest Members' magazine and delve into the archive with some of our previous editions.
Read your May 2022 issueGet Quizzing
From Stonehenge to Queen Victoria, test your history know-how with our quizzes. Whether just challenging yourself or hosting a virtual quiz with family and friends, we've got your history rounds covered. We've even got quizzes just for kids!
Discover our quizzesMembers' Week
Members' Week may be over for 2022, but you can still rewatch the virtual events, as well as those from 2021. From our World of Stonehenge lecture and family quiz to a blue plaques walk and right royal street party (with bonus recipes), there's something for everyone to enjoy. And all from the comfort of your own home.
Watch our virtual events againYou may also be interested in
