Best LondonGuidedWalks.co.uk Podcasts (2025)

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133. Royal Festival Hall's Organ 26:21

1y ago26:21

26:21

In our forthcoming podcast episode, we're joined by the distinguished James McVinnie to delve into the fascinating world of organ music, marking the 70th anniversary of the Royal Festival Hall organ. McVinnie will discuss the instrument's significant historical impact and its role in the evolution of organ music in London and further afield. We'll …

1
132. Suffragette or Suffragist - what would you have been? 24:22

1y ago24:22

24:22

In today's episode, we're journeying back to the turn of the 20th century, to a time when the streets of London and beyond were stages for one of the most significant campaigns in the fight for women's rights: the battle for the right to vote. https://londonguidedwalks.co.uk/podcast/episode-132-suffragetteor-suffragist/…

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131. Endell Street Military Hospital 42:13

1+ y ago42:13

42:13

Welcome to our exploration of one of London's most extraordinary chapters from the First World War: the story of Endell Street Military Hospital, a groundbreaking institution that was not only at the forefront of medical innovation but also a testament to the indomitable spirit and resilience of women. Founded in 1915, amidst the chaos of a world a…

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130. Mudlarking Finds from Stuart London 59:57

1+ y ago59:57

59:57

Join us as we journey through time with seasoned Mudlarker Anna Borzello, uncovering the stories embedded in the mud of the Thames and celebrating the enduring legacy of London's past inhabitants. Through her discoveries, we are reminded of the power of material culture to bridge the gap between past and present, offering us an intimate glimpse int…

1
129. 2 Temple Place 51:48

1+ y ago51:48

51:48

In this captivating podcast episode, Hazel Baker and guest Maggie Coates take listeners on a journey through the hidden gem of Two Temple Place. Maggie Coates, a Camden tour guide and a volunteer at Two Temple Place, shares insights into its Victorian origins and its owner, William Waldorf Astor. Astor's vision for the building, nestled among large…

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128. St James's Palace 52:16

1+ y ago52:16

52:16

Nestled in the heart of London, St. James's Palace is a place of profound historical significance, where centuries of tradition, grandeur, and intrigue have woven a rich tapestry. As we venture within its hallowed halls and uncover its hidden secrets, we will unravel the captivating history that has unfolded within these venerable walls. Join us fo…

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127. Archie's Journey Through Dickens' London 50:19

1+ y ago50:19

50:19

In this episode, we're diving into the bustling, fog-laden streets of Victorian London, a city of stark contrasts and enduring charm, as portrayed in the timeless works of Charles Dickens. Our story centers around Archie, a young orphan navigating the complexities of life in 1843 London – a city that, much like the characters in Dickens' novels, is…

1
126. Transatlantic Slave Trade and London 53:55

1+ y ago53:55

53:55

Join us as we embark on a thought-provoking journey through the pages of London's history, exploring the Transatlantic Slave Trade and the role that London played.

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125. Elizabeth I and Robert Dudley in the Tower of London 34:55

1+ y ago34:55

34:55

Welcome to Episode 125 of the London History Podcast, where we continue to unravel the rich and complex tapestry of London's past. Today, we delve into a chapter that's as intriguing as it is steeped in mystery and speculation — the intertwined stories of Elizabeth I and Robert Dudley, set against the imposing backdrop of the Tower of London.…

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124. History of Tite Street, Chelsea 37:37

1+ y ago37:37

37:37

Welcome to episode 124 of the London History Podcast. I'm Hazel, your navigator through the winding lanes of London's rich tapestry of time. Today, we're peeling back the layers of history in one of Chelsea's most renowned streets — Tite Street with City of Westminster tour guide Dr Stephen King. A street synonymous with cultural luminaries and arc…

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123. Lord Mayor's Show 33:45

1+ y ago33:45

33:45

Hello and welcome to Episode 123 of the London History Podcast. Today, we're unwrapping the layers of one of the capital's most enduring pageants — the Lord Mayor's Show. With a heritage that dates back over eight centuries, this splendid cavalcade of pageantry wends its way through the heart of the City of London, a vibrant thread woven into the f…

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122. Haunted Underground Stations 23:33

1+ y ago23:33

23:33

Welcome to Episode 122 of our riveting podcast series, where we delve deep into the mysteries and stories that make London such an endlessly captivating city. Today, we turn our focus to something quite intriguing yet unsettling: the haunted underground stations of London's Tube network. These are not merely tales to entertain or amuse; they are ac…

1
121. Suffragette Annie Kenney 43:17

1+ y ago43:17

43:17

With us today to unravel the life, impact, and ongoing legacy of this incredible woman is none other than Kirstie Shedden, an esteemed London tour guide specialising in 'Suffragettes in Westminster.' Kirstie’s unparalleled expertise and nuanced understanding of this complex era bring a richness to the subject matter that promises to captivate our a…

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120. Doctor Who in London 54:51

1+ y ago54:51

54:51

Doctor Who has been a staple of British television and has reached global audiences. To understand the significance of this long-running series is to delve deep into the fabric of British popular culture, exploring themes that transcend mere entertainment. Whether it's the socio-political narratives that have been cleverly woven into its storylines…

1
119. Crystal Palace Football Club: How It Began 50:42

1+ y ago50:42

50:42

Hello and welcome to another episode of the London History Podcast, where we delve into the compelling narratives and stories that have shaped one of the world's most iconic cities. Now, when one thinks of London, it's often the majestic landmarks, the palaces and the political history that come to mind. But London is also a city deeply entrenched …

1
118. Francis Barber in Georgian London 31:15

1+ y ago31:15

31:15

Today, we'll be delving into the life of Francis Barber. This tale encapsulates themes of humanity, society, and the complex historical ties that bind London with the wider world. It's a narrative that engages with notions of identity, social mobility, and the human desire for self-determination, set against the backdrop of eighteenth-century Londo…

1
117. Eleanor of Acquitaine 36:21

1+ y ago36:21

36:21

Hello and welcome to this week's episode of the London History Podcast. Today, we delve into the fascinating life of a woman who was nothing short of a dynamo in the politics, culture, and society of her era—Eleanor of Aquitaine. To situate you in the rich tapestry of London's history, we must traverse the centuries back to the 12th century, an era…

1
116. Caroline Crachami - The Sicilian Fairy 37:04

1+ y ago37:04

37:04

Greetings to all our devoted listeners and a warm welcome to those joining us for the first time. My name is Hazel Baker, and it’s an honour to guide you through another intriguing episode of the London History Podcast. As those familiar with our show will undoubtedly know, we delve into the enigmatic tapestry of London’s past, spotlighting the liv…

1
115. Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde 45:27

1+ y ago45:27

45:27

Welcome to the London History Podcast, where we delve into the rich tapestry of the city's past, exploring famous landmarks, significant events, and hidden gems. I'm your host, Hazel Baker, a certified London Tour Guide, historian, and avid storyteller with a passion for uncovering the unique narratives that shape this extraordinary city. Today, we…

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114. Buckingham Palace 45:41

2y ago45:41

45:41

Welcome to the London History Podcast, where we delve into the rich tapestry of the city's past, exploring famous landmarks, significant events, and hidden gems. I'm your host, Hazel Baker, a certified London Tour Guide, historian, and avid storyteller with a passion for uncovering the unique narratives that shape this extraordinary city. In today'…

1
113. The Gentleman's Magazine 49:08

2y ago49:08

49:08

Today, we are going to explore a captivating corner of London's rich literary past: 'The Gentleman's Magazine'. Launched in 1731, this periodical not only revolutionised the way news was disseminated, but it also had a huge impact on the shape of journalism and the publishing industry. Its pages were filled with a dazzling array of content, from po…

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112. Georgian London - Mudlarking Finds 49:58

2y ago49:58

49:58

In this episode of the ⁠London History Podcast⁠, we delve into a truly intriguing aspect of London's history – the remnants of Georgian life found along the city's riverbanks through the activity known as mudlarking. Mudlarking, the practice of scavenging along riverbanks, often unearths some fascinating glimpses into the city’s past, and the Georg…

1
111. London's Nightclubs in the interwar years 58:56

2y ago58:56

58:56

In the latest episode of the ⁠London History Podcast⁠, we're going to dim the lights and step back in time, exploring the smoke-filled, jazz-infused London nightclubs of the roaring 1920s and tumultuous 1930s. These were places where new music was forged, societal norms were challenged, and the intoxicating glamour of the era unfolded under the war…

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110. Crossness Pumping Station 34:52

2y ago34:52

34:52

In the latest episode of the London History Podcast, we delve into the fascinating and crucial chapter of London's history surrounding the Crossness Pumping Station. The mid-19th century was a time when London grappled with the unignorable problem of sanitation, culminating in the notorious event known as the Great Stink of 1858. We begin by explor…

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109. Coronations - a Short History 32:31

2y ago32:31

32:31

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, ev…

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108. Victorian Rat Catchers 49:14

2y ago49:14

49:14

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 o…

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107. Rats - a Victorian problem 22:13

2y ago22:13

22:13

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 episode…

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106. The History of Afternoon Tea 33:55

2y ago33:55

33:55

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 aftern…

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105. St Pancras Station 42:55

2y ago42:55

42:55

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 …

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104. Women's Rights Activist Annie Besant 29:16

2y ago29:16

29:16

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…

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103. Annie Besant and Nineteenth-Century London 36:05

2y ago36:05

36:05

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…

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102. Characters of Leadenhall Market 23:34

2y ago23:34

23:34

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 com…

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101. Henry VIII's Navy 36:05

2+ y ago36:05

36:05

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 powerf…

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100. Christmas Words 43:10

2+ y ago43:10

43:10

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 w…

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99. Royal Christmas Speech - a modern tradition 24:13

2+ y ago24:13

24:13

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, wh…

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98. Christmas Puddings Through History 32:44

2+ y ago32:44

32:44

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…

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97. Temple Bar 26:44

2+ y ago26:44

26:44

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 Christoph…

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96. Gas Lamps of Westminster 33:11

2+ y ago33:11

33:11

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

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95. The Port of London in the Tudor period 44:17

2+ y ago44:17

44:17

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 ep…

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94. Jack Sheppard - the Celebrity Thief 27:13

2+ y ago27:13

27:13

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 l…

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93. Hannah Snell, the Female Soldier 31:57

2+ y ago31:57

31:57

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…

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92. Public Executions 31:01

2+ y ago31:01

31:01

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 …

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91. Radical MP John Wilkes 40:09

3y ago40:09

40:09

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…

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90. Thomas Becket, Patron Saint of London 20:54

3y ago20:54

20:54

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 Beck…

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89. Thomas Arne in Covent Garden 31:27

3y ago31:27

31:27

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 r…

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88. The World's First Underground Railway 22:30

3y ago22:30

22:30

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…

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87. An Introduction to Georgian London 27:02

3y ago27:02

27:02

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,…

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86. Shakespeare's London - Part 2 22:54

3y ago22:54

22:54

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 mi…

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85. Shakespeare's London - Part 1 22:36

3y ago22:36

22:36

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 e…

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84. London Geology 21:19

3y ago21:19

21:19

Join Hazel Baker as she talks with Natalia Jagielska about London geology including dinosaurs and fossils! Find out why the first dinosaur was called the human scrotum, why London's buildings don't reflect its geology and the best way to fossil hunt in the city. londonguidedwalks.co.uk/podcast

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