Welcome to the London History podcast, where we explore and celebrate the history of our beloved city.

Let us know if there's a particular person, event or place you want to know more about in our podcast: londonguidedwalks.co.uk/podcast

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Join Hazel Baker and explore the life and times of Annie Besant, a remarkable woman who made an indelible impact on Victorian London's complex and ever-changing world. As a passionate activist, social reformer, and tireless advocate for the rights of women and the working class, Annie Besant's experiences in London shaped her worldview. They fueled her drive to make a difference.

In this journey through Annie Besant's London life, we will delve into the bustling metropolis home to great innovation and profound social inequality. We will examine the diverse experiences and formative influences that moulded Besant into the influential figure she became, from her early exposure to the harsh realities of poverty and injustice to her later work as a prominent reformer and leader of social change.

Join us as we uncover the incredible story of Annie Besant's life, navigating the vibrant streets of London while discovering the challenges she faced and the triumphs she achieved. Through her eyes, we will understand the tumultuous era of mid-nineteenth century London and the lasting legacy she left on the city and its inhabitants. So, prepare to be inspired as we embark on an unforgettable adventure into the heart of Annie Besant's London.

Let us know if there's a particular person, event or place you want to know more about in our podcast: londonguidedwalks.co.uk/podcast

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Delve into the various aspects of Annie Besant’s life with Hazel Baker, from her tumultuous childhood and early marriage to the beginning of her transformation into a passionate activist and orator.

As we follow the footsteps of Annie Besant, we’ll also paint a vivid picture of mid-century London, a city rife with political tensions, groundbreaking discoveries, and social reforms. We’ll discuss the key events that shaped the city during this transformative period and examine how the city’s unique atmosphere influenced Annie’s life and work.

From the bustling streets of London to the spiritual realms of Theosophy, Annie Besant’s story is truly an inspiring tale of resilience, courage, and a relentless pursuit of justice. Through her activism and tireless work, she left an indelible mark on history and set the stage for many social reforms we enjoy today.

So, let’s embark on this fascinating journey together, as we uncover the untold story of Annie Besant and mid-century London. Stay tuned for the first of a two-part adventure that will take you through the highs and lows of an extraordinary life and the incredible city that shaped it.

Let us know if there's a particular person, event or place you want to know more about in our podcast: londonguidedwalks.co.uk/podcast

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Join Hazel Baker as she talks with Ian McDiarmid about Henry VIII's Navy.

Today, Ian will be taking us on a deep dive into one of the most pivotal moments in London's maritime history: Henry VIII's Royal Navy. As one of England's most famous monarchs, Henry VIII played a crucial role in the development of the Royal Navy, establishing it as a powerful force on the world stage.

Together, we'll explore the key moments and figures that shaped this era of maritime history.  We'll also discover the impact that the Royal Navy had on London itself, as the city became a hub for shipbuilding, trade, and exploration.

Now, let's set sail on our voyage through time!

This episode, we take a moment to reflect on the origins of some of the words we often use and hear during this festive period. If you’re looking for a way to get your history and language fix all in one go, then stick around. We’ll look at how some words such as 'Christmas' and 'Yuletide' first entered our vocabulary - as well as exploring other words associated with Christmas, that of food and drink, and in songs.

Join Hazel Baker as she talks with Danny Bate about Christmas words.

So pull up a chair by the fire, pour yourself a cup of hot chocolate, and join us as we explore.

Full episode transcript: londonguidedwalks.co.uk/podcast/christmas-words

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Christmas is a time for family, friends, and reflection. It's also a time for the tradition of where the monarch delivers their Christmas speech.  If you're a fan of history, or just enjoy learning about the royals, then you'll love our latest podcast episode. In it, we take a look at how the modern tradition of the Royal Christmas message began, why it started later than it could have, show rote the first King's Speech, How Queen Elizabeth II embraced technology when delivering her Christmas speech to discussing its significance both then and now.

Join Hazel Baker as she talks with Jessica Storoschuk about Royal Christmas messages.

So pull up a chair by the fire, pour yourself a cup of hot chocolate, and join us as we explore royal Christmas speeches!

Full episode transcript: londonguidedwalks.co.uk/podcast/royal-christmas-speech

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Join Hazel Baker as she talks with Paul Couchman, The Regency Cook, about the the various Christmas puddings throughout history.

What could a shirt sleeve be used to cook? What is hard sauce? How did the fashion of puddings has changed over the years.

Full transcript: londonguidedwalks.co.uk/podcast/episode-98-christmas-puddings-through-history

Join Hazel Baker as she talks about Temple Bar; the location and the building.

Find out about the heritage of the location, its use as an important processional route, where it features in literature, how the Great Fire of London became a catalyst for change.

Find out about the new Temple Bar and the team behind its creation including Sir Christopher Wren and the gruesome part it played in the 17th And 18th centuries.

Learn things about London that most Londoners don't even know in weekly episodes of London history, with a splash of personality. There's so much we can't fit into our tours, no matter how hard we try. This London history podcast is where we can get down and dirty with the detail! You're not going to find this level of detail in any guidebook.

Let us know if there's a particular person, event or place you want to know more about in our podcast: londonguidedwalks.co.uk/podcast

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Join Hazel Baker as she talks with Luke Honey from the London Gasketeers about the gas lamps in Westminster and why their number is reducing.

Find out about heritage of London's gas lamps, the different styles and how you can spot a gas lamp when out and about in London.

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