In this episode of *Hidden Heritage*, host Violet Manners sits down with Sir Nicholas Coleridge, former Chair of Condé Nast, Provost of Eton College, and Chair of Historic Royal Palaces, alongside Bart Peerless, Senior Partner at Charles Russell Speechlys, to discuss the evolving challenges and opportunities for heritage sites. 

From the role of diversification and financial sustainability to the impact of technology on engaging new audiences, this conversation explores the balance between preserving history and adapting for the future. Sir Nicholas shares insights from his extensive experience with iconic British landmarks, while Bart provides a legal and strategic perspective on stewardship in the modern age. 

Tune in for an enlightening discussion on how historic estates can navigate the pressures of today’s world while keeping their timeless appeal alive for generations to come.

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Dive into the world of British artist Phoebe Dickinson, renowned for her evocative landscape, portrait, and still-life paintings in oils. Classically trained at the Charles Cecil Studios in Florence, Phoebe has showcased her work in solo exhibitions and prestigious galleries, earning accolades such as the RP Award and recognition in the BP Portrait Award.

In this episode, we explore Phoebe’s artistic journey—from painting iconic figures like Carson from Downton Abbey to capturing the grandeur of Britain’s great houses and gardens. Discover how she bridges classical techniques with modern themes, breathes life into her portraits, and preserves heritage through art.

Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply curious about the stories behind the canvas, join us for an inspiring conversation with one of the UK’s most celebrated figurative British artists.

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Welcome to Hidden Heritage! In this episode, Lady Violet Manners is joined by Bernard Donoghue, CEO and Director of ALVA (Association of Leading Visitor Attractions). Bernard shares his insights into the UK's heritage sector, the challenges it faces, and his vision for its future.Join us as we explore:

1. Bernard's journey from a childhood fascination with history to becoming a leading figure in the heritage sector
2. The role of ALVA in advocating for and supporting the UK's most significant cultural and heritage sites
3. The impact of recent global events on the heritage sector and strategies for recovery
4. Bernard's top three destination recommendations for heritage enthusiasts

Key Points

• 00:00:05 - Introduction of Bernard Donoghue and his background
• 00:01:28 - Bernard's early career and passion for heritage
• 00:03:34 - The definition and importance of heritage in the UK
• 00:05:01 - Bernard's experience at Visit Britain and the significance of tourism to the UK economy
• 00:07:25 - The role of film and TV in promoting heritage sites
• 00:10:37 - Bernard's first destination recommendation: Waddesdon Manor
• 00:15:02 - Discussion on the challenges facing the heritage sector post-pandemic
• 00:18:01 - Innovative approaches by heritage sites to attract visitors
• 00:24:17 - Bernard's second destination recommendation: Charleston
• 00:32:00 - The impact of technology on heritage experiences
• 00:41:21 - Bernard's vision for the future of heritage in the UK
• 00:54:20 - Bernard's third destination recommendation: Bristol Old Vic Theatre

Guest Info

Bernard Donoghue

is the CEO and Director of ALVA (Association of Leading Visitor Attractions). He has a long-standing career in tourism and heritage, including roles at Visit Britain and as the Mayor of London's Ambassador for Cultural Tourism. Bernard was awarded an OBE in 2022 for services to tourism and culture.

About

Step inside Britain's greatest Historic Houses, gardens, and family homes through HeritageXplore, your digital gateway to discovering heritage today. Visit www.heritagexplore.com

Links and Resources

• ALVA (Association of Leading Visitor Attractions)
• Waddesdon Manor
• Charleston
• Bristol Old Vic Theatre
• Visit Britain

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Welcome to Hidden Heritage!

Roger Tempest, the 32nd custodian of Broughton Sanctuary (formerly Broughton Hall Estate) in North Yorkshire, joins Lady Violet Manners in this episode. Roger shares the fascinating history of Broughton and how he has transformed it into a centre for wellbeing and sustainability.

Join us as we explore:

1. The rich history of Broughton Sanctuary, dating back to 1097
2. Roger's journey from media to estate management
3. The transformation of Broughton into a thriving business hub and wellness centre
4. The concept of "sanctuary" and its role in modern society
5. Roger's vision for the future of historic houses

Key Points

• 00:00:04 - Introduction of Roger Tempest and Broughton Sanctuary
• 00:01:32 - Roger's inheritance of Broughton at a young age
• 00:03:34 - Early career experiences in media
• 00:05:01 - Challenges faced by Broughton in the 20th century
• 00:07:25 - Transformation of Broughton into a business hub
• 00:10:37 - Development of Broughton Sanctuary and its wellness focus
• 00:15:46 - Impact of Roger's mother's work with Mother Teresa
• 00:18:01 - Creation of retreats and personal transformation experiences at Broughton
• 00:24:17 - Roger's vision for historic houses as forces for good
• 00:32:00 - Discussion of the Avalon wellbeing centre
• 00:41:21 - Future plans for Broughton Sanctuary

Guest Info

Roger Tempest

is the 32nd custodian of Broughton Sanctuary, a Grade I listed 16th-century mansion in North Yorkshire. Under his stewardship, Broughton has been transformed from a struggling estate into a thriving centre for business, wellbeing, and sustainability.

About

Step inside Britain's greatest Historic Houses, gardens, and family homes through HeritageXplore, your digital gateway to discovering heritage today. Visit

www.heritagexplore.com

Links and Resources

• Broughton Sanctuary
• Avalon Wellbeing Centre
• Visions Festival

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Welcome to Hidden Heritage! In this episode, Lady Violet Manners is joined by Ingrid Thomson, archivist at Glamis Castle. Ingrid shares fascinating insights into the history, legends, and preservation efforts at this iconic Scottish landmark.

Join us as we explore:

1. The rich history of Glamis Castle, from its mediaeval origins to its royal connections
2. Intriguing figures associated with Glamis, including Janet Douglas and Mary Eleanor Bowes
3. Famous ghost stories and legends surrounding the castle
4. The role of an archivist in preserving and sharing Glamis' heritage

Key Points

• 00:00:04 - Introduction of Ingrid Thomson and her role at Glamis Castle
• 00:01:44 - Overview of Glamis Castle's location and architectural history
• 00:05:35 - Discussion of early royal connections to Glamis
• 00:06:58 - The story of Janet Douglas, Lady Glamis
• 00:10:37 - Mary Eleanor Bowes and her remarkable life
• 00:18:20 - The Queen Mother's connection to Glamis Castle
• 00:20:33 - Glamis Castle's link to Shakespeare's Macbeth
• 00:23:25 - Famous ghost stories associated with Glamis
• 00:32:00 - Ingrid's work as an archivist and palaeographer
• 00:35:08 - Discussion of historical recipes and remedies found in the archives
• 00:41:21 - Ingrid's favourite rooms and features of Glamis Castle

Guest Info

Ingrid Thomson has been the archivist at Glamis Castle since 2010. She specialises in preserving and cataloguing historical documents, researching family and local history, and mounting exhibitions to share Glamis' rich heritage with the public.

About

Step inside Britain's greatest Historic Houses, gardens, and family homes through HeritageXplore, your digital gateway to discovering heritage today. Visit

www.heritagexplore.com

Links and Resources

• Glamis Castle Official Website
• Historic Environment Scotland - Glamis Castle
• The Queen Mother's childhood at Glamis
• Shakespeare's Macbeth

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Welcome to a special episode of Hidden Heritage! In this episode, Lady Violet Manners is joined by two exceptional guests: Molly Biddell, head of natural capital for Knepp Estate in West Sussex, and Katie Talbot, a tax trusts and succession lawyer for Charles Russell Speechlys.

Join us as we explore:

1. Natural Capital and Estates: The role of natural capital for estates and the opportunities and challenges it brings.
2. Knepp Estate's Rewilding Project: The background behind Knepp Estate's revolutionary 3,500-acre rewilding project and its impact on ecological thinking.
3. Legal and Financial Perspectives: How estates can navigate the complexities of natural capital initiatives from tax and legal standpoints.
4. Future of Land Management: Insights into emerging nature markets and the evolving landscape of estate management.

Key Points

• 00:00:04 - Introduction of Molly Biddell and Katie Talbot
• 00:01:22 - Overview of Knepp Estate's rewilding project
• 00:03:17 - Explanation of Knepp Estate's location and history
• 00:04:17 - Katie Talbot defines natural capital and its relevance to estates
• 00:06:43 - Discussion on responsible land ownership and societal expectations
• 00:08:33 - Molly Biddell explains the concept of rewilding
• 00:10:37 - The story behind Knepp Estate's transition to rewilding
• 00:15:46 - Impact of rewilding on biodiversity at Knepp Estate
• 00:18:01 - Katie Talbot on advising estates considering natural capital initiatives
• 00:21:54 - Molly's first destination recommendation: Duart Castle on Mull
• 00:23:53 - Challenges and opportunities in natural capital for estates
• 00:40:07 - Katie's destination recommendation: Sudeley Castle in Gloucestershire
• 00:45:19 - Discussion on biodiversity net gain (BNG) and its implications for estates
• 00:48:46 - Molly on creating habitat banks and emerging nature markets
• 00:54:21 - The role of Knepp Estate in evolving models of natural capital
• 00:56:41 - Katie on legal frameworks supporting nature-based solutions
• 01:05:23 - Molly and Katie's joint destination recommendation: The Purbeck Coast in Dorset

Guest Info

Molly Biddell

is the head of Natural Capital for Knepp Estate in West Sussex. She works on developing the business case for nature restoration and exploring emerging nature markets. Molly also works for her family's regenerative farming business in Surrey.

Katie Talbot

is a tax trusts and succession lawyer for Charles Russell Speechlys, an international law firm. She focuses on private capital at the intersection of personal, family, and business matters.

About

Step inside Britain's greatest Historic Houses, gardens, and family homes through HeritageXplore, your digital gateway to discovering heritage today. Visit

www.heritagexplore.com

Links and Resources

• Knepp Estate
• Charles Russell Speechlys
• Duart Castle, Mull
• Sudeley Castle
• The Purbeck Coast

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Welcome to Hidden Heritage!

Emma Bridgewater, CBE, a renowned designer, businesswoman, and accomplished potter, joins Lady Violet Manners in this episode. Emma entered the pottery business in 1985 and has since become one of the foremost designers of British homeware and one of the UK's most recognisable entrepreneurs.Join us as we explore:

1. Emma's Journey: From her early inspiration to founding one of the largest pottery manufacturers in the UK.
2. British Design and Heritage: How British culture and landscapes have influenced Emma's designs over the years.
3. Manufacturing in the UK: The challenges and opportunities in British manufacturing and Emma's passion for local production.
4. The Future of Emma Bridgewater: Exciting new projects and developments, including collaborations with the next generation.

Key Points

• 00:00:04 - Introduction of Emma Bridgewater and her background in pottery.
• 00:01:31 - Emma discusses her childhood and early influences.
• 00:03:12 - The inspiration behind starting her pottery business.
• 00:05:01 - Emma's first experiences in Stoke-on-Trent and the pottery industry.
• 00:10:09 - Discussion of the first items produced and early business challenges.
• 00:15:02 - The history of pottery in Britain and Wedgwood's influence.
• 00:24:17 - Emma's first destination recommendation: North Norfolk Marshes.
• 00:27:55 - The influence of British nature and landscapes on Emma's designs.
• 00:36:50 - Challenges facing British manufacturing and pottery.
• 00:40:07 - Emma's second destination recommendation: Port Meadow in Oxford.
• 00:42:29 - New projects and developments at Emma Bridgewater.
• 00:46:03 - Discussion on sustainability in the pottery industry.
• 00:51:26 - Emma's favorite tea and toast preferences.
• 00:54:20 - Emma's third destination recommendation: Offa's Dyke Path.

Guest Info

Emma Bridgewater, CBE

is a British designer and businesswoman who founded the Emma Bridgewater pottery company in 1985. Her company is now one of the largest pottery manufacturers based entirely in the UK, with most products made in the Emma Bridgewater factory in Stoke-on-Trent.

About

Step inside Britain's greatest Historic Houses, gardens, and family homes through HeritageXplore, your digital gateway to discovering heritage today. Visit

www.heritagexplore.com

Links and Resources

• Emma Bridgewater Official Website
• North Norfolk Coast
• Port Meadow, Oxford
• Offa's Dyke Path
• Stoke-on-Trent Potteries

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Hello, heritage enthusiasts! Welcome to the finale of our first series of Hidden Heritage. I'm your host, Lady Violet Manners, and I've had the pleasure of delving into the stories behind some of Britain's most cherished historic houses and gardens over the past 3 months. We've had incredible guests join us, sharing their personal anecdotes and passion for these remarkable places.

As we take a short summer break, fear not, for we will return in September with even more fascinating content. In the meantime, if you're feeling adventurous, why not visit some of the incredible historic houses mentioned on the show?

And if you're a book lover, get ready, because we'll be launching our very own book club in September, dedicated to classic books about historic houses.

Thank you for joining us on this incredible journey through time and heritage, and stay tuned for our return in September with a bang and some outstanding guests. Wishing you a wonderful August, and I look forward to reconnecting with you soon.

About

Step inside Britain’s greatest Historic Houses, gardens, and family homes through HeritageXplore, your digital gateway to discovering heritage today. Visit www.heritagexplore.com

Links and Resources

• Blair Atholl Castle
• Perthshire
• Holcomb Hall
• Carlton Towers
• Blenheim
• HeritageX

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Welcome to Hidden Heritage! In this episode, Lady Violet Manners is thrilled to bring you a conversation with the legendary gardener, broadcaster, and writer, James Alexander-Sinclair. James is one of the foremost garden designers on the planet, having designed gardens from Cornwall to the Western Isles, from London to Moscow. He is also an award-winning writer, frequent broadcaster, and served 10 years as a member of the council of the Royal Horticultural Society.

Join us as we explore:

1. James's Journey: From his accidental start in gardening to becoming a renowned garden designer and broadcaster.
2. The British Love for Gardening: Insights into why gardening is so deeply embedded in British culture and the challenges it faces today.
3. Designing Gardens: The principles of garden design and the importance of adapting gardens to their architectural and environmental context.
4. Top Garden Destinations: James shares his top three garden destination recommendations and what makes them special.

Key Points

• 00:00:04 - Introduction of James Alexander-Sinclair and his background.
• 00:01:26 - James describes his multifaceted career in gardening.
• 00:02:55 - How James's passion for gardening began.
• 00:04:19 - Transition from city gardens to larger countryside projects.
• 00:06:53 - Principles of garden design and the importance of context.
• 00:09:21 - James's first destination recommendation: Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens in Cornwall.
• 00:16:12 - The role of storytelling in garden design.
• 00:18:15 - Current projects and the importance of forward-thinking in garden design.
• 00:24:52 - The significance of gardens in historic houses.
• 00:30:27 - James's second destination recommendation: RHS Hyde Hall in Essex.
• 00:41:44 - The future of gardening and the impact of climate change.
• 00:50:02 - James's third destination recommendation: Rousham House and Gardens in Oxfordshire.
• 01:00:35 - Conclusion and where to find more information about James and his work.

Guest Info

James Alexander-Sinclair

is a renowned garden designer, writer, and broadcaster. With a career spanning several decades, James has designed gardens across the globe and contributed extensively to gardening literature and media. He is a regular columnist for Gardener's World Magazine and has presented numerous gardening programs for the BBC.

About

Step inside Britain’s greatest Historic Houses, gardens, and family homes through HeritageXplore, your digital gateway to discovering heritage today. Visit www.heritagexplore.com

Links and Resources

• James Alexander-Sinclair's Website
• Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens
• RHS Hyde Hall
• Rousham House and Gardens

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Welcome to Hidden Heritage! In this episode, Lady Violet Manners is joined by Harrison Fannon, founder of Worthy Earth. Harrison shares his journey of creating flourishing market gardens on disused farmland and discusses the importance of heritage, sustainability, and community impact.

Join us as we explore:

1. Introducing Harrison Fannon: Harrison's background and his passion for heritage and sustainable farming.
2. The Role of Historic Houses: How historic houses serve as community beacons and their ongoing significance.
3. Injecting the Past into Historic Lands: Harrison's current work and how he aims to revive historical significance in contemporary contexts.
4. Upcoming Event Details: Information about the Worthy Earth Festival, a harvest celebration that highlights community involvement and sustainability.

Key Points

• 00:00:05 - Introduction of Harrison Fannon and discussion on his background.
• 00:01:42 - Harrison shares how Worthy Earth began and its mission.
• 00:03:45 - The significance of no-dig gardening and its benefits.
• 00:06:03 - Expansion of Worthy Earth to multiple sites, including Blenheim Palace.
• 00:08:15 - The role of walled gardens and their historical importance.
• 00:10:10 - Challenges faced by historic houses and the importance of local food production.
• 00:15:01 - Current projects at Worthy Earth, including partnerships with estates and universities.
• 00:24:40 - Introduction of the Worthy Earth Festival and its significance.
• 00:27:54 - The concept of the autumn equinox and its historical context.
• 00:30:44 - The future of regenerative farming and its impact on heritage sites.
• 00:41:21 - Harrison's final destination recommendation: Lowther Castle.

Guest Info

Harrison Fannon

is the founder of Worthy Earth, an initiative focused on creating sustainable market gardens on disused farmland. With a background in archaeology and anthropology, Harrison has combined his passion for heritage and sustainable farming to make a positive impact on local communities.

About

Hidden Heritage is a podcast that sheds light on Britain's historical treasures. Join us as we explore heritage's role in community and identity.

Links and Resources

• Worthy Earth - Learn more about Harrison's work and upcoming events.
• Heritage Explore - Visit for more information about heritage sites across the UK.
• Blenheim Palace
• Rotherfield Park
• Good Food Oxfordshire
• Lowther Castle

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Welcome to Hidden Heritage, where Lady Violet Manners explores Great Britain's historical treasures. David Macdonald, a Senior Director at Sotheby's and a specialist in valuing and selling both modern and antique valuables, joins Violet in this episode.

Join us as we explore:

1. David's Journey: From auction house porter to Senior Director at Sotheby's, David shares his fascinating career path.
2. Valuing Historic Items: Insights into the art market and the importance of storytelling in preserving and selling cultural artefacts.
3. Favourite Experiences and Objects: David recounts some of the most remarkable items and experiences from his career.
4. Historic Destination Recommendations: David provides his top three historic house recommendations for enthusiasts.

Key Points

• 00:00:05 - Introduction of David Macdonald and his background.
• 00:01:28 - David shares his career journey and passion for history.
• 00:03:34 - Early experiences at Christie's and Sotheby's.
• 00:05:01 - The significance of attic sales and their origins.
• 00:07:25 - The tension between preservation and moving on.
• 00:11:57 - David's first destination recommendation: Calke Abbey.
• 00:21:10 - The role of an auctioneer and the skills required.
• 00:24:02 - Importance of single-owner sales in the auction world.
• 00:25:49 - David's favourite treasures: Churchill's dispatch box and Lady Chatterley's Lover's judge's copy.
• 00:32:46 - The impact of losing historic houses and the significance of Hamilton Palace.
• 00:36:50 - David's second destination recommendation: Plas Newydd.
• 00:47:29 - Future collectors and the role of Sotheby's.
• 00:51:57 - David's third destination recommendation: Spetchley Park.
• 01:04:05 - Conclusion and where to find more information about David and Sotheby's.

Guest Info

David Macdonald is a Senior Director at Sotheby's, specializing in the sale of contemporary and historic valuables. With a career spanning over two decades, David has become a leading expert in the art market, known for his ability to identify and value significant cultural artefacts.

About

Step inside Britain’s greatest Historic Houses, gardens, and family homes through HeritageXplore, your digital gateway to discovering heritage today. Visit www.heritagexplore.com

Links and Resources

• Sotheby's
• Calke Abbey
• Plas Newydd
• Spetchley Park Gardens
• Hamilton Palace
• Chatsworth House
• Castle Howard
• Harwood House
• Wentworth Woodhouse

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