Best Winchester Heritage Open Days Podcasts (2024)

1
War Reaches Hampshire: Catastrophe in the Cathedral 33:54

1+ y ago33:54

33:54

One day, the halls of Winchester Cathedral are filled with whispered prayers and holy songs. The next, they echo with the roaring of gunfire and hooves crashing over the tombs of holy men. The English Civil War was a conflict that spared neither the lowest of peasants nor the highest of kings. It was only a matter of time before the winds of war re…

1
250 Years of History with the Hampshire Chronicle 22:14

1+ y ago22:14

22:14

At a glance, Winchester is a city preserved in history—sheltered from the winds of time and change. Upon closer inspection, you will discover that there are new stories and developments happening around every corner. It’s the job of Andrew Napier and a dedicated team of journalists to find these events and bring them to readers across the county. W…

1
From Riches to Rags, then Restoration - King John’s House 26:23

1+ y ago26:23

26:23

Over the course of centuries, how many times can one building change ownership? How many voices of the past echo within its rooms and halls? These are questions that Mark Udall, General Manager of King John’s House, seeks to answer as he joins our host, Richard North. Within the complex of historic buildings, traces of the past can be seen tucked a…

1
Black John: Southampton's 16th Century African Entrepeneur 22:08

1+ y ago22:08

22:08

Black John was a free African carpenter who chose to make a living in Southampton at the turn of the 16th century. Dr Abdoulie Sanneh reveals John’s story and how he brought it to life with the Sarah Siddons Fan Club theatre performance company. Additionally, Dr Sanneh talks about his own story of coming to Southampton from the Gambia and founding …

1
Myths and Legends of the Test Valley 26:37

1+ y ago26:37

26:37

In the beautiful village of Amport, an owl hoots, and then a baker’s daughter pays a magical price for her cruelty. ‘The Baker’s Daughter of Amport’ is one of many local legends that Amanda Kane-Smith brings to life as a storyteller. Combining magic, mythical creatures, and real locations in the Test Valley, her book Test Valley Tales takes readers…

1
Barley, Hops, and Toil: Ingredients to Southwick Brewhouse’s Success 34:57

1+ y ago34:57

34:57

In 1957, Master Brewer Dick Olding produced his last batch of beer and retired at the age of 81. Martin Bazeley and Matt Hallett join Julian Gerry to share Olding’s story, as well as the decades of history and tradition behind the brewing process. Keep listening to learn about the vital role of the brewery during the Second World War! This is our f…

1
Walkeology: Wanders, Wonders and Wunderkammers 33:15

2y ago33:15

33:15

In this episode, the final one of Season 7 we join Fay Stevens, Adjunct Assistant Professor at the University of Notre Dame, and explore walking as a question. An archaeologist by training, Fay is interested in the potential of objects and the way we organise them to inspire wonder and stimulate both the individual mind and collective conversation.…

1
Hampshire Cultural Trust: Linking the Past with the Future 20:32

2y ago20:32

20:32

Hampshire Cultural Trust is an organisation that manages twenty-three museums, arts centres, and galleries across the county and cares for millions of historical objects. Chief Executive Paul Sapwell reveals what it takes to keep such a vast network of history and culture accessible to Hampshire’s residents. Additionally, he explores some exciting …

1
The Hidden House in Hursley Park 29:14

2y ago29:14

29:14

Hursley Park near Winchester is a private estate owned by the IBM. Here you will find new buildings and also an 18th-century Queen Anne style mansion in which - many of our listeners will recall - once saw spitfires built in the ballroom! Today’s story however is takes us back even further in time as once a grand Tudor house stood here, almost forg…

1
Tragedy at Sea: Southampton's Connection to the Titanic 30:37

2y ago30:37

30:37

As the RMS Titanic left Southampton on 10th April 1912, crowds filled the docks to wave goodbye to their friends and family. Many of the ship’s crew and passengers were Southampton natives who would never return to their city again. Mary Taylor, a Southampton tourist guide, leads listeners on a trail through Southampton to historic sites relating t…

1
The Life and Death of Henry V’s Navy in Hampshire 24:50

2y ago24:50

24:50

For centuries, England has been known as one of the world’s strongest naval powers, but in the tumultuous age of Henry V, this fearsome reputation had yet to be forged. During the Hundred Years’ War, England and France waged a fierce war at sea. In this episode, Dr Ian Friel talks about Hampshire’s vital role in defending England and attacking Fran…

1
Pear Tree Church: From the Bishop of Winchester to the Life of Pi 26:56

2y ago26:56

26:56

Join us for a fascinating insight into the history of the little-known Pear Tree Church in Southampton. From its peaceful position close to the eastern bank of the River Itchen, Pear Tree’s influence and intrigue stretch far wider than first jumps out to the eye. In fact, the Church represents the oldest place of worship anywhere in the world to ha…

1
How Two Millenia of History Shaped the River Itchen 33:59

2y ago33:59

33:59

At first glance, the River Itchen appears to be nothing more than a quaint waterway without much history behind it. However, within its calm streams rests thousands of years of human civilisation. Elizabeth Proudman, a local historian and former Winchester tour guide, takes listeners on a tour through the city’s history and its ties to the River It…

1
Dark Gold: The Lifeblood of Early Modern Europe 16:38

2+ y ago16:38

16:38

In our last episode on chocolate, Andy Silen-McMillin joins Holly Marsden as they trace its journey across early modern Europe and its many uses as a product. When most people think of chocolate today, they think of hot chocolate or chocolate bars. However, did you know that it was once used as an aphrodisiac? Holly Marsden and Andy Silen-McMillin …

1
Dark Gold: A Drink for Doctors and Kings 25:03

2+ y ago25:03

25:03

Join us as we trace the fascinating journey of chocolate in the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries - from its arrival - not without issue - on Hampshire shores, to its place at the very centre of Stuart royal life. Guided on our way by Holly Marsden, a specialist on the life and times of Mary II, we hear how the Queen placed this bittersweet substance a…

1
Dark Gold: Bringing Chocolate from Mesoamerica to Europe 25:27

2+ y ago25:27

25:27

It’s that time of the year when Terry’s Chocolate Oranges and tins of Quality Streets are lining the shelves – but how much do you really know about the history behind chocolate? In the first of a three-part series, join Dr Gabrielle Storey and Johanna Strong as they explore the historical production process and chocolate’s journey to Europe. This …

1
Hampshire Ramblers’ Fight to Preserve our Paths 30:12

2+ y ago30:12

30:12

The UK’s historic walking trails have been used for millennia. Roman sandals have walked the same paths as modern trainers. But these routes are in danger of disappearing forever. Join Peter and Paul from the Hampshire Ramblers to learn how they’re being saved! 2026 represents the deadline for retracing and reclaiming lost paths, and old rights of …

1
A Story Around Every Streetcorner: Explore Winchester's Vibrant History 24:17

2+ y ago24:17

24:17

Winchester is an old city filled with a rich and exciting history, echoes of the past can be seen all around as you walk through its streets - if you only know where to look. Join Instagrammer Miss_WinchesterUK as she highlights some of the unusual facts throughout the city: discover where you can walk in the footsteps of royals; what curious rhyme…

1
30 Years of Hampshire Fare: Championing Local 23:34

2+ y ago23:34

23:34

We've all heard the name and seen the logo but what is Hampshire Fare and what do they do? In this podcast, we go in search of answers and finds a quiet success story behind some of the best of what the county has to offer. This is our final episode of the Heritage Open Days 2021 festival, we plan to be back for Season Six in November 2021. For mor…

1
Archives Galore! 28:57

2+ y ago28:57

28:57

All history ultimately depends on archives of some kind – documents, film, sound recordings and increasingly digital files. There is a huge range of such archives of all sizes and levels of sophistication. Often, to properly research a subject, it is necessary to “roam around” sources. This often comes up with some surprising finds. In this podcast…

1
Trenchers and Teapots: Food at Winchester College 26:24

2+ y ago26:24

26:24

Thomas and Douglas, two Winchester College boys have specially recorded this 'Edible England' podcast and in it, they share the history of 'school food' at the Winchester College. They have delved into the school archives to discover fascinating insights into banquets organised by the school founder, and have also interviewed Old Wykehamists (forme…

1
From 'Field to Fork' in World War II 27:50

2+ y ago27:50

27:50

In this special podcast for Heritage Open days recorded by Hampshire Cultural Trust we explore Edible England in World War II - from 'field to fork'. On our website you will find more information about this episode including Nick's biography and some great links to Hampshire Cultural Trust; visit our website by clicking here…

1
Oral History: Where do you start? 26:51

2+ y ago26:51

26:51

Oral history is about recording someone's own words about what has happened in their lives or it could be a recording of their views and recollections of a specific event in history. In this podcast specially recorded for Heritage Open Days, we cover how to approach recording oral history, what to think about before you start, what is involved if y…

1
Intrigue in the New Forest Leads to a Mystery at Winchester Cathedral 10:43

2+ y ago10:43

10:43

"1100 was an odd sort of year for some. William II had been King for a while, following the death of his father, William the Conqueror, but William II was not a good king, so might that explain this strange tale of mystery and intrigue." Aisha Al-Sadie, Learning Officer at Winchester Cathedral in the latest Hampshire HistBites podcast shares a stra…

1
The Heritage of Bell Ringing in Hampshire 41:23

2+ y ago41:23

41:23

It is the start of Season 5, a very special season to celebrate this year's Heritage Open Days festival. We begin with a fascinating podcast on traditional bell ringing in Hampshire, with the help of podcaster Cathy Booth from Fun with Bells and experts Chris Pickford, Elizabeth Johnson, and Micki Nadal. In this special Heritage Open Days podcast, …

1
The Spitfires in the Ballroom at Hursley Park 27:57

2+ y ago27:57

27:57

Everyone has heard of the Spitfire - one of the most successful aircraft ever produced and one of greatest iconic pieces of design. But how many of us knew they were designed in the magnificent setting of an oak panelled ballroom in an 18th century mansion?! Join David Key as he shares fascinating stories about the Hursley Park near Winchester and …

1
Matilda of Boulogne; a Bold and Valiant Leader 22:09

2+ y ago22:09

22:09

Queen Matilda, otherwise known as Matilda of Boulogne, was arguably one of the most important English queens of the twelfth century. However, she seems to be overshadowed by, and sometimes even confused with, her cousin, the Empress Matilda, who opposed King Stephen during the civil war period known as the Anarchy. Join Catherine Capel as she consi…

1
Valkyries in the Water-Meadows: A Little-Known Piece of Winchester Folklore 21:04

2+ y ago21:04

21:04

It’s amazing how we can learn so much about a place from its past, and Winchester is no different! Dating from the Anglo-Saxon period, Winchester’s folklore not only tells us more about the city, but it also highlights some details about an unusual creature: the English version of the Old Norse Valkyrja. Join Dr Eric Lacey as he shares with us the …

1
Romsey Abbey; a Haven, an Educational Opportunity or a Place of Power? 22:20

2+ y ago22:20

22:20

“Get thee to a nunnery” Hamlet declares to Desdemona in Shakespeare’s play, but for women in medieval England, being sent to an abbey or convent was not necessarily a penance. Taking orders could be as advantageous as an arranged marriage, providing women with a good education and positions of power and authority. In the medieval era Hampshire’s Ro…

1
From a Cloister Arch to Medieval Glass and Some China Eggs! 21:18

2+ y ago21:18

21:18

Having been moved from place to place for over 200 years, King Alfred the Great's roaming remains finally came to rest at Hyde Abbey in 1110: a newly formed Benedictine house. With such a regal presence, the Abbey became a hugely popular pilgrimage destination until its destruction during the Reformation. But now the history behind the burial place…

1
Weaving History and Tradition with the Whitchurch Silk Mill 30:04

3y ago30:04

30:04

The ancient tradition of silk weaving is not just alive but flourishing at Hampshire’s very own silk mill, housed in its original building in the little town of Whitchurch. Emily Briffett talks to some of the team at Whitchurch Silk Mill and discovers that the fabric and ribbons produced here over the years have clothed both the famous and the infa…

1
Three Abbeys and a Castle: Hampshire's History of Royals 13:33

3y ago13:33

13:33

When it comes to swanky guest lists it’s hard to beat the roll call of visitors to Hampshire’s Titchfield Abbey over the centuries. Henry V stopped off here en route for the campaign in France that inspired Shakespeare’s famous St Crispin’s Day speech. Later Henry VI married Margaret of Anjou here and Elizabeth I and Charles I were among the Tudor …

1
When the Messiah came to Andover 30:36

3y ago30:36

30:36

Hampshire during the English Civil War was a pretty miserable place. Looting was rife and the population politically divided and plagued by disease. Into this gloomy scene came the London rope-maker William Franklin, a self-proclaimed Messiah, who set up camp in Andover in 1649 with his female companion Mary Gadbury. Was he a visionary or a blasphe…

1
Celebrating and remembering with Hampshire's bells 32:33

3y ago32:33

32:33

On Sundays and feast days and in times of celebration and mourning bells ring out from Hampshire’s churches, abbeys and cathedrals to mark the occasion. It’s a practice that has continued since Saxon times, but where are the county’s oldest church bells which once rang to sound the curfew, or to remind households to cover their fires overnight? And…

1
A Window Through Time: Florence Nightingale’s Hampshire Roots and Legacy 24:19

3y ago24:19

24:19

May 12th is International Nurses’ Day and in this podcast we celebrate the life of one of Hampshire’s most influential Victorians, the nurse and campaigner Florence Nightingale. From her home at Embley Park near Romsey, she set off for the Crimean War where she introduced pioneering hygiene measures that saved countless lives and established a temp…

1
Creatures and Kings: A Viking Tale’s Link With Winchester 14:11

3y ago14:11

14:11

Among the treasures on display in Winchester Cathedral is the ancient Sigmund Stone, excavated from the remains of the Saxon cathedral on the same site. Carved on this stone fragment is a scene from the Old Norse Volsunga Saga, a compendium of tales that provide a window into the treacherous and brutal Viking world. Aisha Al-Sadie, Learning Officer…

1
In Conversation With John Pilkington: Hampshire's Own Explorer and Travel Writer 26:54

3y ago26:54

26:54

Hampshire-based explorer John Pilkington continues his travelogue, recounting to Emily Briffett how a childhood love of maps led to his wanderings in far flung corners of the globe. Here he regales us with tales of tracing dinosaur footprints in Bolivia, witnessing the birth of post-Soviet Kyrgyzstan, getting stranded in Antarctica, tracking down B…

1
Whitchurch to China: A Six-Thousand Mile Silk Road Adventure 27:09

3y ago27:09

27:09

Inveterate traveller John Pilkington talks about following the trail of Marco Polo along the ancient Silk Road to China, where he discovers a surprising link between Suzhou, the Venice of the East, and Hampshire’s Whitchurch Silk Mill. Among the highlights of his travels, he tells Emily Briffett, are his travels among nomadic people in Afghanistan …

1
Discovering Hidden Treasures at St Swithun's 26:22

3y ago26:22

26:22

St Swithun’s archivist Elly Crookes talks to Julie Dypdal about the school’s eventful history and its fascinating archives-which include letters from Christina Rosetti and William Wilberforce. Educating girls wasn’t a priority in Victorian England but the pioneering founders of St Swithun’s School in Winchester helped to change that in Hampshire. B…

1
Echoes Through Time: Our Connection with People of the Past 24:40

3y ago24:40

24:40

What was life like for women in Emperor Nero’s court? This knotty issue is just one of the preoccupations of Carey Fleiner, senior lecturer in Classical and Early Medieval studies at the University of Winchester. In this episode Dr Fleiner talks to Ingrid Tofteng about Nero’s wives, Pompeii and the Vesuvius eruption of 1944-and how the influence of…

1
Winchester's Forgotten Second Railway Station 25:43

3y ago25:43

25:43

If you find yourself on St Giles Hill or walking along Chesil Street in Winchester, listen out for the ghostly whistle of a steam train or the clang of a signal bell. Here, at the foot of St Giles Hill, was Cheese Hill (later Chesil) Station, opened in 1885 as a stop on the ill-starred Didcot, Newbury and Southampton Railway line. From here Hampshi…

1
Hampshire Archives: Preserving the History of Today for Tomorrow 16:07

3y ago16:07

16:07

How will future generations regard the Covid-19 pandemic and the way it changed our lives? Here in Hampshire, Zoe Viney of Wessex Film & Sound Archive run by and based at Hampshire Record Office in Winchester is helping to create a record of local life in lockdown through the project Making History: Making Movies. In this latest episode she talks t…

1
Chalk Talk: Hampshire’s Prehistoric Ecosystem 22:51

3y ago22:51

22:51

Take a walk along the banks of the River Itchen and you enter a magical world where otters play, mayfly dart, brown trout slip through the weeds and water vole peer from burrows. Winchester has its very own Wind in the Willows habitat and Susan Simmonds of the Hampshire Wildlife Trust talks to Kyle Alexander about her work protecting and celebratin…

1
Rediscovering our Ancient and Traditional Heritage Crafts 25:59

3y ago25:59

25:59

Archeologist Alex Langlands, presenter of the BBC’s Victorian Farm series, talks to Charlotte Tindle about his book Cræft and how, over centuries, we humans have learnt to use the natural materials around us to practical ends, from whittling wood or spinning wool to smoking fish and meat. Working with nature can help us engage with our local landsc…

1
Reflecting on the HistBites journey, and our edible plans for 2021 16:17

3y ago16:17

16:17

HistBites is the brainchild of Nicky Gottlieb and Becky Brown, the festival directors of Winchester Heritage Open Days. In this specially commissioned episode they talk to Emma Cornell-Stoffer about their favourite podcasts so far, ranging from the colourful history of vintage King Alfred buses to the sometimes gory stories behind our popular sea s…

1
In Plain Sight: The Treasures all Around Us! 13:42

3+ y ago13:42

13:42

Bored with #lockdown, looking for something to add interest to your day? Then join us for a conversation about the Twitter postbox challenge with this week's guest hosts, Madelaine and Catherine. During previous and current lockdown walks they have been noticing details that might normally be missed. For example, Catherine spotted various door knoc…

1
Creating stories and treading the boards with 2TimeTheatre 24:04

3+ y ago24:04

24:04

Join Cecily and Rachel as they share their passion for dramatising the stories of Hampshire's ‘unheard, unsung and unvisited’ 2TimeTheatre is a young and innovative Hampshire theatre company that works with local talent and tiny budgets to revitalise the work of long dead writers as well as producing brilliant original work telling the hidden stori…

1
Continuing Our Quest to Discover Mary I's Connections to Winchester and Beyond 20:49

3+ y ago20:49

20:49

Welcome to part two of Johanna Strong’s episodes exploring Mary I’s life. In this one we discover Mary I’s connections to two English landmarks - Wolvesey Castle in Winchester, and Hampton Court Palace in Surrey. Both sites observed major moments in her life, namely marriage and expected childbirth. Content Warning - This episode contains a sensiti…

1
Winchester and Westminster: How Did These Churches Forget Mary I? 22:25

3+ y ago22:25

22:25

The life of Mary I has deep connections with both Winchester Cathedral and Westminster Abbey. How was she forgotten by these churches? Johanna Strong uncovers the truth. This podcast looks at the ways in which Mary I, first crowned queen regnant of England, is remembered in Westminster Abbey – the site of her coronation and burial – and in Winchest…

1
Warfare in Winchester: Empress Matilda’s Last Stand 20:33

3+ y ago20:33

20:33

After Empress Matilda fails to gain the support of London and is chased out by its inhabitants, she journeys to Winchester and makes her camp there. Join Catherine Capel as she explores the events leading up to this moment and analyses the Empress’ decision to make the city her base of operations. In Winchester, arrows will fly, blades will clash, …

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Winchester Heritage Open Days Podcasts

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