Hidden Heritage

By HeritageXplore

Welcome to Hidden Heritage – the podcast that brings you inside Great Britain’s favourite destinations with help from custodians, historians, artisans and experts.

From the same team that brought you ... more

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FAQs about Hidden Heritage:

How many episodes does Hidden Heritage have?

The podcast currently has 81 episodes available.

Hidden Heritage episodes:

April 24, 2025 Living Heritage: Dr. Tristram Hunt on Museums in a Changing World
In this episode, Violet Manners is joined by Dr Tristram Hunt, Director of the Victoria and Albert Museum and former MP, for a wide-ranging conversation about the role of museums in public life. They discuss how institutions like the V&A are evolving in the 21st century - from addressing colonial legacies to engaging new audience - and the importance of safeguarding heritage through education, storytelling, and civic engagement. Tristram reflects on the power of design to shape society and offers his perspective on the future of Britain's cultural landscape.

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59min
January 16, 2025 Hidden Heritage: Legacy, Preservation and Innovation with Bart Peerless and Sir Nicholas Coleridge
In this episode of *Hidden Heritage*, host Violet Manners sits down with Sir Nicholas Coleridge, former Chair of Condé Nast, Provost of Eton College, and Chair of Historic Royal Palaces, alongside Bart Peerless, Senior Partner at Charles Russell Speechlys, to discuss the evolving challenges and opportunities for heritage sites.

From the role of diversification and financial sustainability to the impact of technology on engaging new audiences, this conversation explores the balance between preserving history and adapting for the future. Sir Nicholas shares insights from his extensive experience with iconic British landmarks, while Bart provides a legal and strategic perspective on stewardship in the modern age.

Tune in for an enlightening discussion on how historic estates can navigate the pressures of today’s world while keeping their timeless appeal alive for generations to come.

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1h 8min
December 17, 2024 Timeless Brushes: Exploring Art, Heritage, and Portraiture with Phoebe Dickinson
Dive into the world of British artist Phoebe Dickinson, renowned for her evocative landscape, portrait, and still-life paintings in oils. Classically trained at the Charles Cecil Studios in Florence, Phoebe has showcased her work in solo exhibitions and prestigious galleries, earning accolades such as the RP Award and recognition in the BP Portrait Award.
In this episode, we explore Phoebe’s artistic journey—from painting iconic figures like Carson from Downton Abbey to capturing the grandeur of Britain’s great houses and gardens. Discover how she bridges classical techniques with modern themes, breathes life into her portraits, and preserves heritage through art.
Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply curious about the stories behind the canvas, join us for an inspiring conversation with one of the UK’s most celebrated figurative British artists.

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39min
October 17, 2024Beyond Tourism: The Societal Impact of Heritage Sites
Welcome to Hidden Heritage! In this episode, Lady Violet Manners is joined by Bernard Donoghue, CEO and Director of ALVA (Association of Leading Visitor Attractions). Bernard shares his insights into the UK's heritage sector, the challenges it faces, and his vision for its future.Join us as we explore:
Bernard's journey from a childhood fascination with history to becoming a leading figure in the heritage sector
The role of ALVA in advocating for and supporting the UK's most significant cultural and heritage sites
The impact of recent global events on the heritage sector and strategies for recovery
Bernard's top three destination recommendations for heritage enthusiasts
Key Points
00:00:05 - Introduction of Bernard Donoghue and his background
00:01:28 - Bernard's early career and passion for heritage
00:03:34 - The definition and importance of heritage in the UK
00:05:01 - Bernard's experience at Visit Britain and the significance of tourism to the UK economy
00:07:25 - The role of film and TV in promoting heritage sites
00:10:37 - Bernard's first destination recommendation: Waddesdon Manor
00:15:02 - Discussion on the challenges facing the heritage sector post-pandemic
00:18:01 - Innovative approaches by heritage sites to attract visitors
00:24:17 - Bernard's second destination recommendation: Charleston
00:32:00 - The impact of technology on heritage experiences
00:41:21 - Bernard's vision for the future of heritage in the UK
00:54:20 - Bernard's third destination recommendation: Bristol Old Vic Theatre
Guest Info
Bernard Donoghue
is the CEO and Director of ALVA (Association of Leading Visitor Attractions). He has a long-standing career in tourism and heritage, including roles at Visit Britain and as the Mayor of London's Ambassador for Cultural Tourism. Bernard was awarded an OBE in 2022 for services to tourism and culture.

About
Step inside Britain's greatest Historic Houses, gardens, and family homes through HeritageXplore, your digital gateway to discovering heritage today. Visit www.heritagexplore.com

Links and Resources
ALVA (Association of Leading Visitor Attractions)
Waddesdon Manor
Charleston
Bristol Old Vic Theatre
Visit Britain

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1h 3min
October 10, 2024Healing History: How Broughton Sanctuary is Reshaping Estate Management with Roger Tempest
Welcome to Hidden Heritage!
Roger Tempest, the 32nd custodian of Broughton Sanctuary (formerly Broughton Hall Estate) in North Yorkshire, joins Lady Violet Manners in this episode. Roger shares the fascinating history of Broughton and how he has transformed it into a centre for wellbeing and sustainability.

Join us as we explore:
The rich history of Broughton Sanctuary, dating back to 1097
Roger's journey from media to estate management
The transformation of Broughton into a thriving business hub and wellness centre
The concept of "sanctuary" and its role in modern society
Roger's vision for the future of historic houses
Key Points
00:00:04 - Introduction of Roger Tempest and Broughton Sanctuary
00:01:32 - Roger's inheritance of Broughton at a young age
00:03:34 - Early career experiences in media
00:05:01 - Challenges faced by Broughton in the 20th century
00:07:25 - Transformation of Broughton into a business hub
00:10:37 - Development of Broughton Sanctuary and its wellness focus
00:15:46 - Impact of Roger's mother's work with Mother Teresa
00:18:01 - Creation of retreats and personal transformation experiences at Broughton
00:24:17 - Roger's vision for historic houses as forces for good
00:32:00 - Discussion of the Avalon wellbeing centre
00:41:21 - Future plans for Broughton Sanctuary
Guest Info
Roger Tempest
is the 32nd custodian of Broughton Sanctuary, a Grade I listed 16th-century mansion in North Yorkshire. Under his stewardship, Broughton has been transformed from a struggling estate into a thriving centre for business, wellbeing, and sustainability.

About
Step inside Britain's greatest Historic Houses, gardens, and family homes through HeritageXplore, your digital gateway to discovering heritage today. Visit
www.heritagexplore.com

Links and Resources
Broughton Sanctuary
Avalon Wellbeing Centre
Visions Festival

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55min
October 03, 2024Ghosts, Legends, and Royal Tales: Exploring Glamis Castle with Ingrid Thomson
Welcome to Hidden Heritage! In this episode, Lady Violet Manners is joined by Ingrid Thomson, archivist at Glamis Castle. Ingrid shares fascinating insights into the history, legends, and preservation efforts at this iconic Scottish landmark.
Join us as we explore:
The rich history of Glamis Castle, from its mediaeval origins to its royal connections
Intriguing figures associated with Glamis, including Janet Douglas and Mary Eleanor Bowes
Famous ghost stories and legends surrounding the castle
The role of an archivist in preserving and sharing Glamis' heritage
Key Points
00:00:04 - Introduction of Ingrid Thomson and her role at Glamis Castle
00:01:44 - Overview of Glamis Castle's location and architectural history
00:05:35 - Discussion of early royal connections to Glamis
00:06:58 - The story of Janet Douglas, Lady Glamis
00:10:37 - Mary Eleanor Bowes and her remarkable life
00:18:20 - The Queen Mother's connection to Glamis Castle
00:20:33 - Glamis Castle's link to Shakespeare's Macbeth
00:23:25 - Famous ghost stories associated with Glamis
00:32:00 - Ingrid's work as an archivist and palaeographer
00:35:08 - Discussion of historical recipes and remedies found in the archives
00:41:21 - Ingrid's favourite rooms and features of Glamis Castle
Guest Info
Ingrid Thomson has been the archivist at Glamis Castle since 2010. She specialises in preserving and cataloguing historical documents, researching family and local history, and mounting exhibitions to share Glamis' rich heritage with the public.

About
Step inside Britain's greatest Historic Houses, gardens, and family homes through HeritageXplore, your digital gateway to discovering heritage today. Visit
www.heritagexplore.com

Links and Resources
Glamis Castle Official Website
Historic Environment Scotland - Glamis Castle
The Queen Mother's childhood at Glamis
Shakespeare's Macbeth

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56min
September 26, 2024Natural Capital: Reimagining Estate Management for the Future
Welcome to a special episode of Hidden Heritage! In this episode, Lady Violet Manners is joined by two exceptional guests: Molly Biddell, head of natural capital for Knepp Estate in West Sussex, and Katie Talbot, a tax trusts and succession lawyer for Charles Russell Speechlys.

Join us as we explore:
Natural Capital and Estates: The role of natural capital for estates and the opportunities and challenges it brings.
Knepp Estate's Rewilding Project: The background behind Knepp Estate's revolutionary 3,500-acre rewilding project and its impact on ecological thinking.
Legal and Financial Perspectives: How estates can navigate the complexities of natural capital initiatives from tax and legal standpoints.
Future of Land Management: Insights into emerging nature markets and the evolving landscape of estate management.
Key Points
00:00:04 - Introduction of Molly Biddell and Katie Talbot
00:01:22 - Overview of Knepp Estate's rewilding project
00:03:17 - Explanation of Knepp Estate's location and history
00:04:17 - Katie Talbot defines natural capital and its relevance to estates
00:06:43 - Discussion on responsible land ownership and societal expectations
00:08:33 - Molly Biddell explains the concept of rewilding
00:10:37 - The story behind Knepp Estate's transition to rewilding
00:15:46 - Impact of rewilding on biodiversity at Knepp Estate
00:18:01 - Katie Talbot on advising estates considering natural capital initiatives
00:21:54 - Molly's first destination recommendation: Duart Castle on Mull
00:23:53 - Challenges and opportunities in natural capital for estates
00:40:07 - Katie's destination recommendation: Sudeley Castle in Gloucestershire
00:45:19 - Discussion on biodiversity net gain (BNG) and its implications for estates
00:48:46 - Molly on creating habitat banks and emerging nature markets
00:54:21 - The role of Knepp Estate in evolving models of natural capital
00:56:41 - Katie on legal frameworks supporting nature-based solutions
01:05:23 - Molly and Katie's joint destination recommendation: The Purbeck Coast in Dorset
Guest Info

Molly Biddell
is the head of Natural Capital for Knepp Estate in West Sussex. She works on developing the business case for nature restoration and exploring emerging nature markets. Molly also works for her family's regenerative farming business in Surrey.
Katie Talbot
is a tax trusts and succession lawyer for Charles Russell Speechlys, an international law firm. She focuses on private capital at the intersection of personal, family, and business matters.

About
Step inside Britain's greatest Historic Houses, gardens, and family homes through HeritageXplore, your digital gateway to discovering heritage today. Visit
www.heritagexplore.com

Links and Resources
Knepp Estate
Charles Russell Speechlys
Duart Castle, Mull
Sudeley Castle
The Purbeck Coast

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1h 12min
September 19, 2024Handcrafted British Heritage: Emma Bridgewater's Timeless Pottery
Welcome to Hidden Heritage!
Emma Bridgewater, CBE, a renowned designer, businesswoman, and accomplished potter, joins Lady Violet Manners in this episode. Emma entered the pottery business in 1985 and has since become one of the foremost designers of British homeware and one of the UK's most recognisable entrepreneurs.Join us as we explore:
Emma's Journey: From her early inspiration to founding one of the largest pottery manufacturers in the UK.
British Design and Heritage: How British culture and landscapes have influenced Emma's designs over the years.
Manufacturing in the UK: The challenges and opportunities in British manufacturing and Emma's passion for local production.
The Future of Emma Bridgewater: Exciting new projects and developments, including collaborations with the next generation.
Key Points
00:00:04 - Introduction of Emma Bridgewater and her background in pottery.
00:01:31 - Emma discusses her childhood and early influences.
00:03:12 - The inspiration behind starting her pottery business.
00:05:01 - Emma's first experiences in Stoke-on-Trent and the pottery industry.
00:10:09 - Discussion of the first items produced and early business challenges.
00:15:02 - The history of pottery in Britain and Wedgwood's influence.
00:24:17 - Emma's first destination recommendation: North Norfolk Marshes.
00:27:55 - The influence of British nature and landscapes on Emma's designs.
00:36:50 - Challenges facing British manufacturing and pottery.
00:40:07 - Emma's second destination recommendation: Port Meadow in Oxford.
00:42:29 - New projects and developments at Emma Bridgewater.
00:46:03 - Discussion on sustainability in the pottery industry.
00:51:26 - Emma's favorite tea and toast preferences.
00:54:20 - Emma's third destination recommendation: Offa's Dyke Path.
Guest Info
Emma Bridgewater, CBE
is a British designer and businesswoman who founded the Emma Bridgewater pottery company in 1985. Her company is now one of the largest pottery manufacturers based entirely in the UK, with most products made in the Emma Bridgewater factory in Stoke-on-Trent.

About
Step inside Britain's greatest Historic Houses, gardens, and family homes through HeritageXplore, your digital gateway to discovering heritage today. Visit
www.heritagexplore.com

Links and Resources
Emma Bridgewater Official Website
North Norfolk Coast
Port Meadow, Oxford
Offa's Dyke Path
Stoke-on-Trent Potteries

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1h
August 22, 2024End of Series One Update
Hello, heritage enthusiasts! Welcome to the finale of our first series of Hidden Heritage. I'm your host, Lady Violet Manners, and I've had the pleasure of delving into the stories behind some of Britain's most cherished historic houses and gardens over the past 3 months. We've had incredible guests join us, sharing their personal anecdotes and passion for these remarkable places.
As we take a short summer break, fear not, for we will return in September with even more fascinating content. In the meantime, if you're feeling adventurous, why not visit some of the incredible historic houses mentioned on the show?
And if you're a book lover, get ready, because we'll be launching our very own book club in September, dedicated to classic books about historic houses.
Thank you for joining us on this incredible journey through time and heritage, and stay tuned for our return in September with a bang and some outstanding guests. Wishing you a wonderful August, and I look forward to reconnecting with you soon.

About
Step inside Britain’s greatest Historic Houses, gardens, and family homes through HeritageXplore, your digital gateway to discovering heritage today. Visit www.heritagexplore.com

Links and Resources
Blair Atholl Castle
Perthshire
Holcomb Hall
Carlton Towers
Blenheim
HeritageX

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4min
August 15, 2024The British Love Affair with Gardens: James Alexander-Sinclair's Top Garden Destinations
Welcome to Hidden Heritage! In this episode, Lady Violet Manners is thrilled to bring you a conversation with the legendary gardener, broadcaster, and writer, James Alexander-Sinclair. James is one of the foremost garden designers on the planet, having designed gardens from Cornwall to the Western Isles, from London to Moscow. He is also an award-winning writer, frequent broadcaster, and served 10 years as a member of the council of the Royal Horticultural Society.

Join us as we explore:
James's Journey: From his accidental start in gardening to becoming a renowned garden designer and broadcaster.
The British Love for Gardening: Insights into why gardening is so deeply embedded in British culture and the challenges it faces today.
Designing Gardens: The principles of garden design and the importance of adapting gardens to their architectural and environmental context.
Top Garden Destinations: James shares his top three garden destination recommendations and what makes them special.
Key Points
00:00:04 - Introduction of James Alexander-Sinclair and his background.
00:01:26 - James describes his multifaceted career in gardening.
00:02:55 - How James's passion for gardening began.
00:04:19 - Transition from city gardens to larger countryside projects.
00:06:53 - Principles of garden design and the importance of context.
00:09:21 - James's first destination recommendation: Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens in Cornwall.
00:16:12 - The role of storytelling in garden design.
00:18:15 - Current projects and the importance of forward-thinking in garden design.
00:24:52 - The significance of gardens in historic houses.
00:30:27 - James's second destination recommendation: RHS Hyde Hall in Essex.
00:41:44 - The future of gardening and the impact of climate change.
00:50:02 - James's third destination recommendation: Rousham House and Gardens in Oxfordshire.
01:00:35 - Conclusion and where to find more information about James and his work.
Guest Info
James Alexander-Sinclair
is a renowned garden designer, writer, and broadcaster. With a career spanning several decades, James has designed gardens across the globe and contributed extensively to gardening literature and media. He is a regular columnist for Gardener's World Magazine and has presented numerous gardening programs for the BBC.

About
Step inside Britain’s greatest Historic Houses, gardens, and family homes through HeritageXplore, your digital gateway to discovering heritage today. Visit www.heritagexplore.com

Links and Resources
James Alexander-Sinclair's Website
Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens
RHS Hyde Hall
Rousham House and Gardens

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1h 5min

FAQs about Hidden Heritage:

How many episodes does Hidden Heritage have?

The podcast currently has 81 episodes available.