Welcome to the London History podcast, where we explore the fascinating world of British royal coronations. The coronation ceremony is a deeply symbolic event that has evolved over time, reflecting the changing political and cultural landscape of Britain. From the anointing of the monarch with holy oil to the crowning with the St Edward's Crown, every aspect of the ceremony is steeped in tradition and symbolism, emphasizing the monarch's duty to serve and protect their subjects. Throughout...

Embark on a riveting journey with London tour guide Hazel Baker as she unveils the intriguing profession of rat catching in the heart of Victorian London. In this enthralling episode, immerse yourself in the enigmatic world of rat catchers, the brave and resourceful individuals who faced danger and societal disdain in their pursuit of a vital yet often overlooked occupation. Throughout the episode, Hazel will unravel the captivating stories and ingenious techniques of notable rat catchers,...

Join London tour guide Hazel Baker and gain insight into a unique profession: rat catching. Over the next two episodes, we’ll transport you back to the shadowy streets of Victorian London, where we’ll delve into the curious world of rat catching and the daring individuals who pursued this perilous and often unappreciated occupation. In these episodes, we’ll explore the lives and techniques of these fascinating characters, such as the legendary Jack Black, the Royal Rat Catcher who proudly...

As we explore the history of afternoon tea, we will also delve into the story of the tea itself – its journey from the far corners of the globe to the heart of British culture. We will discuss the factors that contributed to its rise in popularity, as well as the various types of tea that have become beloved staples in British households. No afternoon tea would be complete without a delicious assortment of treats, and the Victoria Sponge holds a special place in the hearts of many. We will...

Welcome to the London History podcast, where we explore and celebrate the history of our beloved city. This episode is about one of London’s most iconic landmarks - St. Pancras Station. This station is one of the major railway stations in England, located in central London. It has been an integral part of the transportation system since 1868, when it was built by William Barlow as part of the Midland Railway. Join tour guides Hazel Baker and Ian McDiarmid from London Guided Walks as they...

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...

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...

Join Hazel Baker and explore the fascinating stories and colorful characters of one of London's oldest and most beloved markets. Dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries, Leadenhall Market started as a hub for poultry and game trading, but quickly expanded to include dairy products and other goods. While the market offered a vibrant space for commerce, it was not without its share of crime and violence, which were unfortunately common in London during that time.  Nevertheless, there was a...

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...

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...

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...

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 --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/londonguidedwalks/message

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...

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. Send a voice message --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/londonguidedwalks/message

Join Hazel Baker as she talks with City of London tour guide Ian McDiarmid to discuss the Port of London in the Tudor period, a subject which is not often discussed in detail. Find out about eels, ermine and Antwerp in this Tudor-themed episode of the London History podcast.  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...

By the time of his death, Sheppard’s escapades had earned him celebrity status among Londoners and he inspired popular plays, prints and ballads. For a considerable time he was the principal subject of conversation in all ranks of society. Hear more about his legendary escapes! Join Hazel Baker as she talks about the life of Jack Sheppard and his legendary escapades. Learn things about London that most Londoners don't even know in weekly episodes of London history, with a splash of...

Hannah Snell was an 18th-century English woman who dressed as a man and enlisted in the British Army. She served for several years before revealing her true identity. Hannah's published story is one of determination and courage. She enlisted in the Army in order to find her missing husband. Once she was in the Army, she quickly proved herself to be a brave and capable soldier. Hannah was wounded in battle. When her story became public, Hannah was celebrated as a heroine and she even went on...

London is known for a lot of things: its history, its culture, and its public executions. That's right, for over 700 Londoners have gathered to watch convicted criminals be put to death. While today this may seem barbaric, at the time it was an important way to keep the public safe. or was it? Join Hazel Baker as she talks with City of London tour guide Ian McDiarmid to discuss Museum of London Dockland's latest exhibition: Executions. Show notes:...

John Wilkes was a radical politician and newspaper editor. He used poetry and  Magna Carta to mobilise public opinion, which helped him fight for many causes in his lifetime. Join Hazel Baker as she talks with City of London tour guide Ian McDiarmid to discuss MP John Wilkes and his life in London. 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...

Thomas Becket was one of the most powerful figures of his time, serving as Royal Chancellor and later as Archbishop of Canterbury in the 1100s. After his assassination he became Patron Saint of London all of the way up to 1532 with the Dissolution of the Monasteries under the reign of Henry VIII. To tell us more about the man, the myth and the Becket Pageant for London is James Winterbotham, Historical Consultant for the Becket Pageant for London. Show notes:...

Like many other places in London, Covent Garden has evolved over the years. It started from humble beginnings as a Convent garden for Westminster Abbey, it has moved through many guises over the centuries.  From a home to the aristocracy and the main centre of theatrical life in London it developed into the largest produce market in the world. The rapid expansion of the market altered the character of the area. Along with a bustling commercial market, two theatres (The First Theatre Royal on...

London’s Underground railway is not only the oldest system of its kind, it’s also the world’s most famous. The Tube, as it’s also known is more than just a way of getting around the capital, it is also a symbol of the city. More than four million people use it everyday. On Tuesday this week more than 130,000 passengers piled aboard the first trains running on the new £18.9bn Elizabeth line within hours of its launch. Transport enthusiasts gathered at Paddington station and Abbey Wood, in...

Georgian London was a fascinating time and place. It was a time of great change, and the city was growing rapidly. This period in London’s history is often overlooked, but it is definitely worth taking a closer look at! In this podcast, we will explore some of the most interesting aspects of Georgian London. We will take a look at the architecture, the culture, and the people who made it their home and how some of them are remembered and others forgotten. A new type of society emerged in...

Join Hazel Baker as she continues to discuss Shakespeare’s London with Carol Anne Lloyd including the way London is shown in Shakespeare’s plays (and even non-London location plays). They discuss whether censorship, curses and real London locations used in Shakespeare's plays. Learn things about London that most Londoners don't even know in a 20 minute espresso shot episode of London history with a splash of personality. There's so much we can't fit into our tours, no matter how hard we...

Join Hazel Baker as she discusses Shakespeare's London with Carol Anne Lloyd including the way London is shown in Shakespeare's plays (and even non-London location plays). They discuss whether Shakespeare has always been so "highbrow", was he always so popular? and how he make most of his money. Learn things about London that most Londoners don't even know in a 20 minute espresso shot episode of London history with a splash of personality. There's so much we can't fit into our tours, no...