THE ENGLISH HERITAGE PODCAST

Step into England’s story with our new weekly podcast. Join presenter Charles Rowe as we bring the history of our sites to life with news, views and expert interviews.

You can listen to our latest episodes below or scroll down for details of how to subscribe.

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Latest Episode

Episode 294 - The 1266 siege of Kenilworth Castle

In the summer of 2024, eight catapult shot were discovered at Kenilworth Castle during a project to improve paths in and around the castle. Ranging in weight between 1kg and 105kg, the stone balls are believed to have been fired during the momentous 172-day-long siege of the castle in 1266. We’re joined by properties historian Dr William Wyeth to discover the story of the siege, the people who took part and its legacy today.

Read about the history of Kenilworth Castle and Elizabethan Garden

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A taste of food history

What were people eating in days gone by, and how? Tuck into these episodes to step into the kitchens and dining rooms of our properties and discover the history of food, from Victorian houses to Roman feasts and more.

Black History

In these episodes of the podcast, discover the story of the Crafts' incredible journey and fight for freedom, what life would have been like for Dido Belle growing up in the georgian aristocracy and the legacy that the transatlantic slave trade has left at our properties. Plus we discuss the black people commemorated by Blue Plaques in London, including musical legend Bob Marley.

Myths, magic and superstition

Join us and a host of experts to discover tales of mischief and magic as we explore the history behind magical beliefs, myths, legends and superstitions.

1066

Join us on The English Heritage Podcast as we unpick the real events and people behind the famous story of the Battle of Hastings. We discuss who had the strongest claim to the English throne, what happened in the days and months leading up to the battle and what William I did to cement his reign in the years that followed the Norman Conquest. Plus, go behind the scenes to discover just what it takes to pull off a live action remake of the battle each year at the Abbey and Battlefield site in East Sussex.

Monasteries

Now enigmatic ruins perfect for a peaceful day out, throughout medieval England our monastic properties were once home to communities of monks and nuns. Explore their stories, from their daily life and religious practices, to the catastrophic dissolution ordered by Henry VIII.

Castles

Step back in time as we explore what life was like at our historic castles. From epic battles and sieges, to tales of power and political machinations that wouldn't look out of place in Game of Thrones, listen to these episodes to discover their stories.

The Romans

From AD 43 to AD 410 Britain was under the control of the Roman Empire, from Hadrian’s Wall in the north of England to Richborough Fort in Kent. Listen to these English Heritage Podcast episodes to explore the archaeological discoveries made at these sites, and what they can tell us about life in the past.

Women's History

From queens to commoners, women have been integral in shaping the history of our castles and historic homes. Join us as The English Heritage Podcast explores the fascinating stories of women associated with our sites.

Blue Plaque Biographies

Commemorative blue plaques found on buildings across London connect people and place together – but there is much more to discover about these famous figures. Join us to find out more about the fascinating stories behind the plaques, as The English Heritage Podcast delves into their histories in this series of episodes.

Ask the experts...

In this mini series, our experts answer your questions. From castles and monasteries to prehistory, discover the things you always wanted to know. Get your question answered in a future episode: email us at podcast@english-heritage.org.uk with your question and your name to be included.