Episode Description: In this week’s episode, the Duchess meets Belvoir Castle’s archivist, Vicki Perry, to discuss the fascinating history of women at Belvoir Castle. In the show, Vicki will be sharing never before released letters and stories from the many extraordinary women who helped make Belvoir what it is today. Later in the show, the Duchess will then sit down with her daughter, Violet, to talk about what the life of a duchess is really like - past and present - and how this podcast came to be made! Top Quotes: “Each of the women we’ve had on the podcast up to this point have been completely different in character but what unifies them all is their absolute determination to see heritage reimagined.” - Violet Manners “When it comes to running one of these homes, you never feel it belongs to you. You’re just a custodian.” - Duchess of Rutland About Belvoir Castle: Belvoir Castle is a 16,000-acre estate in Leicestershire, it’s history dates back to the 11th century in 1067. Crowning a hill, the Castle’s turrets and towers rise over the Vale of Belvoir. Belvoir Estate has been passed down through 36 successive generations and an unbroken line of Dukes of Rutland for nearly 1000 years. James Wyatt, the iconic architect, designed the remodelled Castle built between 1801-1832 for the 5th Duke and Duchess of Rutland. Today, Belvoir Castle is said to be one of the finest examples of Regency architecture globally. In addition, the gardens have undergone several major changes over the centuries – the latest being a two-year restoration programme by the present Duchess to bring the lost plans of Capability Brown to fruition in 2016. 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. 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.emmaduchessrutland.com/ https://www.belvoircastle.com/cinderella-at-belvoir/ This podcast is sponsored by BetterHelp. To Learn more and save 10% off your first month visit BetterHelp.com/duchess Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices