As a young girl growing up in the idyllic Welsh countryside, Emma Rutland never could have imagined she would live a real life fairytale. 

Born Emma Watkins, she met the 11th Duke of Rutland and fell in love. The couple married and Emma became the Duchess of Rutland. This transformation would thrust her into the world of the aristocracy - living in one of Britain's most important homes, Belvoir Castle. 

The life of a Duchess was not just romance and glamour but also hard work and responsibility. Emma learned that everyday running a stately home is a battle and that she has to work tirelessly to ensure the castle sees tomorrow. 

Emma wanted to learn more about the other stately homes of Great Britain, the history behind these estates, the families who call them home, and the other inspiring women who lead them today. 

When her daughter Vi suggested a podcast, she knew she had to do it. 

So please join Emma as she journeys through Britain, peeking behind the veil of history and aristocracy and meeting the empowering women who guide Britain’s stately homes today.

This is Duchess, the podcast.

About the Host:

Emma Rutland, The Duchess of Rutland, did not always stride the halls of stately homes. Born Emma Watkins, the Duchess grew up the daughter of a Quaker farmer, in the Welsh marsh countryside. She trained as an opera singer in the Guildhall School of Music, and worked as a successful interior designer before meeting her future husband David Manners, the 11th Duke of Rutland, at a dinner party. Their marriage in 1992 would transform Emma Watkins into the 11th Duchess of Rutland, thrusting her into the world of aristocracy, and handing her the responsibility of one of the nation's great treasures: Belvoir Castle. While simultaneously running the day to day operations of the castle, and raising five children, The Duchess became fascinated with the history and importance of the other stately homes of the UK. Join The Duchess as she embarks on a wonderful journey through time, to learn more about the incredible homes that have defined Great Britain and, most importantly, meet the other extraordinary women who work tirelessly behind their doors to preserve their history and magic for future generations.

Resources:

https://www.belvoircastle.com/

https://www.onefineplay.com/

https://www.blenheimpalace.com/

https://www.duchessthepodcast.com/

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