Episode Description: This week on the podcast, the Duchess meets her head gardener, Tom Webster, to go through the gorgeous gardens of Belvoir. In their chat, the Duchess learns about Tom’s fascinating gardening philosophy, Tom explains how he brought back the old fragrance of Belvoir, and why Roses are the way to a woman’s heart. Later in the episode, the Duchess meets one of the estate’s top tour guides to discuss the legends of Belvoir - where the Duchess learns about the most haunted rooms in the castle, why one must discourage paranormal activity and the tragic story of the ‘witches’ of Belvoir. Top Quotes: “From my own personal perspective, I like to keep the integrity of these gardens. Of course, no garden stands still and you have to keep changing them. But they have to sympathetic changes.” - Tom Webster “I’ve never felt frightened here. I’ve only ever felt a warmth. I may not have felt alone, but I’ve never felt afraid.” - Olivia Jojoo 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. 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 was sponsored by BetterHelp. To Learn more and save 10% off your first month visit Better Help.com/duchess Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices