London History uncovers the stories, people, and places that have shaped London over 2,000 years. Hosted by historian and tour guide Hazel Baker, each 20–40 minute episode works like an audio walking tour. It ranges from Roman Londinium and medieval guilds to Dickensian streets, Georgian scandals, and modern social change. The show is aimed at curious Londoners, visitors, students, and history lovers who want to go beyond the usual tourist highlights.
Episodes
166: The Explorer's Room: Guns, Gear and Victorian Travel
A water filter, a hunting knife and your own portable bath. What else did a Victorian traveller need before leaving London?Join Hazel Baker as she explores the shops that equipped Victorian journeys — including the intriguing Explorer’s Room at S. W. Silver & Co. on Cornhill. Here, officers, missionaries, emigrants and explorers could find everything from tents and travelling furniture to fire
165: Inside Kensington Palace
In this episode of the London History Podcast, Hazel Baker is joined by City of Westminster tour guide Phil Scott for a reign-by-reign exploration of Kensington Palace. Together, they trace its story from its origins as Nottingham House in the Middlesex countryside, through William III and Mary II’s transformation of it into a royal palace, to its spectacular Georgian state rooms and its defining
164: Edwardian London: Mario Theodorou’s Historical Thrillers
Step into the restless, glittering and deeply unequal London of 1904 with author, screenwriter and director Mario Theodorou, creator of the Felix Grey Mysteries.Mario joins Hazel to explore the Edwardian capital behind his historical thrillers: a city of political power, royal intrigue, rapid technological change and growing demands for social reform. At the heart of the novels is Felix Grey, an i
163: Fighters and Fashion: The Story of Georgian London's Public Combat
Spotify episode descriptionLondon’s forgotten fighting history comes alive in this episode of the London History Podcast. Hazel Baker explores the brutal, theatrical and hugely popular world of Georgian bare-knuckle boxing — a sport that shaped London’s streets, entertainments and social life.From James Figg, celebrated as the “invincible master,” to Jack Broughton’s influential rules of combat an
162: Building Tower Bridge
How Tower Bridge Was Built: The Untold Story of London's Most Famous BridgeDiscover the remarkable history behind Tower Bridge, one of London's most iconic landmarks. Learn how political battles, engineering innovation, and Victorian ambition transformed a transport crisis into one of the greatest bridge-building achievements of the nineteenth century.00:00 Building Tower Bridge01:00 Why L
161: Life Below Stairs
Below Stairs London: Tracing Victorian Servant Life in Belgravia and MayfairHazel Baker guides listeners through surviving street-level traces of Victorian servant London—area steps and railings, coal-hole covers, bell systems, mews alleys, and service districts—showing how London’s architecture encoded a rigid “upstairs/downstairs” hierarchy and enforced servant invisibility. Using census figures
160: Soho Square’s Untold Stories: From Charles II to Mary Seacole
Host Hazel Baker and Westminster guide Philip Scott record in Soho Square, tracing its shift from Middlesex countryside and royal hunting ground—where “Soho!” was cried—to a late-1600s development originally called King Square for Charles II, whose weathered statue remains after being moved and later returned. They highlight residents and landmarks, including Mary Seacole’s blue plaque and her Cri
159: Unveiling London's Victorian Vampire Legacy
London’s Dracula Connections: Victorian Vampires, Penny Dreadfuls & the Lyceum Theatre (World Dracula Day Special)On World Dracula Day (26 May), London History Podcast host Hazel Baker speaks with Lambeth tour guide and Gothic novelist David Turnbull about how a century of Gothic writing and London locations shaped Bram Stoker’s Dracula. They trace early vampire traits through Coleridge’s Chri
158: Finsbury Circus: Marsh to Metropolitan Marvels
The script traces Finsbury Circus Gardens’ transformation from medieval marshland north of London’s wall—created as the Wallbrook’s flow was impeded—into today’s Grade II listed public garden and commercial centre. It recounts Roman burials, later use as a waste dump and tanning area, failed drainage and quarrying, and the successful draining in 1527. The site became home to Bethlehem Royal Hospit
157: From Factory Floor to Black Market: The Button Theft Scandal
Hazel Baker of the London History Podcast describes late December 1870 at the crowded Worship Street Police Court, where three women—Elizabeth Brown (22), Charlotte Quigley (20), and her mother Charlotte Quigley (45)—are charged with stealing large quantities of buttons from Hackney manufacturer Mr. Williamson. The episode explains why buttons had real commercial value in the booming Victorian clo
156: Smithfield: London’s Theatre of Public Execution
Hazel Baker introduces Smithfield (West Smithfield near St Bartholomew’s Hospital and Smithfield Meat Market) as a deceptively ordinary open space that for centuries served both as a major market/fairground and a prominent execution site used to project state and church power. With tour guide Maria Alexe’s commentary, the episode traces Smithfield’s execution history from William Wallace’s hanging
155: Tea with Churchill: Amelia Earhart's London Story
Hazel Baker hosts journalist and author Rachel Hartigan on the London History Podcast to explore Amelia Earhart’s lesser-known relationship with London in 1928 and 1932, from Toynbee Hall’s settlement-house ideals to Selfridges displaying her plane and outfitting her after transatlantic flights with no spare clothes. Hartigan recounts how Earhart, then a Boston social worker, was recruited to join
154: White Conduit House: A Lost Pleasure Garden of Georgian Islington
Hazel Baker traces the story of White Conduit House in Barnsbury, Islington, from its origins as a 1431 Henry VI–licensed water conduit supplying Charterhouse to its later life as an affordable, working-class pleasure garden. She explains how Robert Bartholomew’s 1750s improvements and famed hot rolls and butter made it a London destination, noted by Oliver Goldsmith, and how resident organist Jam
153: A Celebration of Sound: The Festival of Britain's Musical Journey
Hazel Baker hosts a London History Podcast episode with author and Lambeth tour guide David Turnbull exploring the musical legacy of the 1951 Festival of Britain and how, 75 years on, music again anchors South Bank celebrations with Danny Boyle’s “You Are Here.” They discuss the Royal Festival Hall’s symbolic opening night and its British-focused programme, the festival’s nationwide reach through
BONUS EPISODE 2: The Great London Firsts Quiz
Hazel Baker hosts a special bonus edition of the London History Podcast celebrating over 500,000 streams and downloads and continuing a “London’s firsts” theme with a slightly harder, play-along quiz. Listeners get 12 questions with 15 seconds to think, then the show shares the answer and a short story behind each landmark “first,” spanning Norman and medieval London through the Georgian era and b
152: The Peasant's Revolt Part I - How it Came About
Hazel Baker of London Guided Walks welcomes you to the London History Podcast for the first of a two-part deep dive into the dramatic events of 1381—often known as the Peasants’ Revolt. Joining Hazel is City of London guide and lecturer Ian McDiarmid, as they unpack why “peasants” is far from an accurate label. Contemporary records and post-revolt indictments reveal that many participants were ski
151: Love of Jane Austen in London
In episode 151 of the London History Podcast, host Hazel Baker is joined by Caroline Jane Knight, who is Jane Austen's fifth great-niece. Caroline discusses her unique perspective growing up at Chawton House, the family estate, and her deep connection to Austen's legacy. She shares anecdotes about Jane Austen's life, her literary works, and her connection to London. Caroline also talks
150: Cracking London's Financial Glass Ceiling: The Story of Mary Harris Smith
In this episode of the London History Podcast, host Hazel Baker, a qualified London tour guide, and founder of londonguidedwalks.co.uk, explores the financial history of London and the role of women in this narrative. Joined by Jenny Funnell, a second-generation City of London tour guide, the episode delves into the story of Mary Harris Smith, the world's first female chartered accountant. The
BONUS EPISODE Quiz Time: Uncovering London's Firsts Through History
In this special bonus edition of the London History Podcast, the host celebrates reaching over 5,000 followers on Spotify by conducting a quiz themed 'London Firsts through the ages'. The quiz covers significant historical landmarks and events from medieval to Georgian London, asking listeners to identify firsts such as the city's first continually operating hospital, the first long-li
149: Milner Square: Through a Hole in the Wall
This episode of the London History Podcast, hosted by Hazel Baker, explores the historical evolution of Milner Square in Islington, London. Initially developed in the 1840s to attract the middle class, the square transitioned into a slum by the 20th century, characterised by multi-occupancy and dilapidated conditions. In the 1970s, Islington Council cleared the slums and rehoused residents, leadin
148: Seven Dials in the Interwar Years
The London History Podcast, hosted by Hazel Baker from London Guided Walks, explores the rich history of Seven Dials in London during the 1920s and 1930s. In this episode, Professor Matt Holbrooke discusses his book, 'Songs of Seven Dials,' which delves into the cultural history of the area through vibrant archival research. Seven Dials was a diverse and vibrant community, home to migrant
147: The Russian Flu of 1892
📜 London History Podcast | Victorian Britain & Pandemic Fear In January 1892, London went dark. Theatres closed. Streets filled with black crepe. A young royal heir lay dying — while thousands of ordinary Londoners froze, starved, and quietly disappeared.In this episode of the London History Podcast, we explore one deadly week during the Russian Flu pandemic, when Prince Albert Victor, Duke of
146: Jumping Tower Bridge
Step back in time with the London History Podcast as we revisit one of the city’s most daring and heartwarming moments. On a cold, smoggy evening in December 1952, bus driver Albert Gunter faced the unthinkable when Tower Bridge began to rise beneath him. With 40 passengers on board, Gunter made a split-second decision that would make him a local hero and capture the imagination of Londoners every
145: Feasting in London: History of Puddings, Pies & Markets
Hosted by Hazel Baker from London Guided Walks, episode 145 of the London History Podcast explores nearly a thousand years of London's feasting traditions. The journey begins with medieval banquets at Guildhall, showcasing elaborate feasts that reflected wealth, power, and international trade connections through elaborate meals and public spectacles. The episode then delves into the history of
144: Who was Ebenezer Scrooge?
Join Hazel Baker, host of the London History Podcast, as she delves into the character of Ebenezer Scrooge from Charles Dickens' 'A Christmas Carol'. Explore the rich symbolism behind Scrooge's name, his physical and emotional transformation, and the social commentary embedded in the novella. Discover the streets of Victorian London that inspired Dickens' tale and learn how the
143: Oliver Twist's London
Discover Oliver Twist’s London with Hazel Baker, tour guide and CEO of London Guided Walks 📖. Explore Dickens’s London, the workhouses, markets, and slums that shaped one of literature’s most famous orphans 👶. Step into Victorian London history, understand child labour, poverty, and urban life, and see the city through the eyes of Dickens himself.From the Strand Union Workhouse to Jacob’s Island,
142: Monsters and Myths of London
Episode 142: The Monsters and Myths of London | Halloween Special 🎃Welcome to a spine-chilling Halloween special from the London History Podcast! Join host Hazel Baker from London Guided Walks as we explore the terrifying creatures, urban legends, and supernatural tales that have haunted London for centuries. From Victorian fire-breathing demons to medieval spectral hounds, 1970s vampire hunts to
141: Mocked in London Part 1: Umbrellas
London is a city shaped by its traditions—and just as much by those brave enough to break them. In this episode, Hazel Baker uncovers the comic, sometimes outrageous history of umbrella-toting pioneers in London: from Jonas Hanway dodging cabbies’ missiles, to satirical cartoons by Gillray, to the Duke of Wellington’s battlefield bans. Explore four millennia of social resistance, ridiculous trends
140: The Iron Duke: Gadgets, Survival & Innovation
Step into history with Episode 140 of the London Guided Walks Podcast! 🎙️Join London tour guide Hazel Baker as we uncover The Duke of Wellington. Discover his ingenious survival tactics, fascinating gadgets, and the surprising story behind the famous Wellington boot.
139. Downing Street
Episode 139: Downing Street — A Microcosm of LondonStep down one of the world’s most famous addresses. Downing Street isn’t just the seat of power; it reflects London’s history, politics, and social change. Discover the stories that shaped a nation from this iconic street.
138. Dockside Gold: How Whales Transformed London
This episode reveals London's hidden connections to some of the most remote places on Earth – from the icy fjords of Spitsbergen to the vast Southern Ocean. Discover how whale hunting shaped everything from street lighting to women's fashion, and why this brutal yet economically vital trade ultimately came to define London's position as a global maritime power.Perfect for listeners int
137. The Thames Tunnel
The Remarkable Story Behind the World's First Underwater Tunnel | London History Podcast Ep. 137In episode 137 of the London History Podcast, join host Hazel Baker and guest Katherine MacAlpine, Director of the Brunel Museum, as they delve into the fascinating history of the world's first tunnel under a river - the Thames Tunnel. Built by the pioneering father-son duo Marc and Isambard Kin
136. Ink & Industry
🎙️ London's Printing Revolution & the Birth of Children's Literature | The London History PodcastJoin Hazel Baker for a fascinating journey through 1740s London, a city alive with ink, ambition, and innovation. In this episode of The London History Podcast, we uncover how a tiny chapbook, Tommy Thumb’s Pretty Song Book, helped transform childhood reading – and how a widowed woman publi
135. William Beckford
Who was William Beckford, and why does his name still spark debate today? Born in Jamaica in 1709, Beckford became one of the wealthiest men in Britain through sugar plantations powered by enslaved labour. Twice elected Lord Mayor of London, he was a towering political figure in Georgian society—renowned for his opulent lifestyle and his bold speech to King George III in 1770.In this episode of th
134. Organ Grinders of Little Italy
Welcome to the London History Podcast. In this episode, we journey through the cobbled streets of Victorian London, where the sound of barrel organs and the chatter of Italian voices once filled the air. Join Hazel Baker as she uncovers the remarkable story of Little Italy—a vibrant immigrant enclave in Clerkenwell, shaped by migration, resilience, and transformation. We’ll walk the lanes immortal
133. Royal Festival Hall's Organ
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 explore how the organ, conceived in th
132. Suffragette or Suffragist - what would you have been?
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/
131. Endell Street Military Hospital
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 at war, Endell Street stood out for being entir
130. Mudlarking Finds from Stuart London
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 into the lives of those who walked the streets of
129. 2 Temple Place
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 larger structures near Middle Temple, reflects bot
128. St James's Palace
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 for the latest fact-filled episode. Listen now&g
127. Archie's Journey Through Dickens' London
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 filled with both hardship and hope. As w
126. Transatlantic Slave Trade and London
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.
125. Elizabeth I and Robert Dudley in the Tower of London
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.
124. History of Tite Street, Chelsea
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 architectural beauty, Tite Street i
123. Lord Mayor's Show
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 fabric of our urban story.
As we cast
122. Haunted Underground Stations
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 accounts that have perplexed commuters, undergro
121. Suffragette Annie Kenney
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 audience.
Annie Kenney was not just a part
120. Doctor Who in London
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 or the imaginative realms it transports us to
119. Crystal Palace Football Club: How It Began
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 in sporting history.
Today we're set
118. Francis Barber in Georgian London
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 London.
londonguidedwalks.co.uk/podcast
117. Eleanor of Aquitaine
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 teeming with political intrigue, territorial disp
116. Caroline Crachami - The Sicilian Fairy
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 lives, landmarks, and lore that have shaped this magn
115. Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde
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 turn our lens towards one of the most fas
114. Buckingham Palace
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's episode, we're exploring the his
113. The Gentleman's Magazine
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 political debates and poetry to obit
112. Georgian London - Mudlarking Finds
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 Georgian era is particularly ripe with discover
111. London's Nightclubs in the interwar years
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 warm glow of chandeliers.
For this enthralling jo
110. Crossness Pumping Station
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 exploring the life and career of Joseph Bazalgette,
109. Coronations - a Short History
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 tradi
108. Victorian Rat Catchers
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
107. Rats - a Victorian problem
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 the
106. The History of Afternoon Tea
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 asso
105. St Pancras Station
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 Mid
104. Women's Rights Activist Annie Besant
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 t
103. Annie Besant and Nineteenth-Century London
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 th
102. Characters of Leadenhall Market
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 v
101. Henry VIII's Navy
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
100. Christmas Words
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 d
99. Royal Christmas Speech - a modern tradition
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
98. Christmas Puddings Through History
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
97. Temple Bar
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 th
96. Gas Lamps of Westminster
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
95. The Port of London in the Tudor period
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
94. Jack Sheppard - the Celebrity Thief
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
93. Hannah Snell, the Female Soldier
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 i
92. Public Executions
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 Muse
91. Radical MP John Wilkes
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
90. Thomas Becket, Patron Saint of London
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, Histo
89. Thomas Arne in Covent Garden
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 cha
