From Durham to Belvoir: A Journey Through John Goodall’s Hidden Heritage

Hidden Heritage

Step inside British history with Hidden Heritage, the podcast that uncovers the stories behind the nation's most beloved destinations. Join host Lady Violet Manners, as she delves into the architectural wonders, family histories, and cultural gems that make up the fabric of British heritage.

In this episode, architect and historian John Goodall shares his passion for ancestral connections in old buildings and the physical expression of this in churches. As he delves into the fascinating archives at Belvoir and unravels the remarkable story of a divided estate, listeners will discover the intricate human stories behind historic places.

Tune in to uncover:

1. The importance of experiencing historic places firsthand, and the significance of parish churches in understanding historical alterations.
2. Insights and stories about the preservation and future of historic sites and buildings, shed light on the delicate balance between preservation and allowing change.
3. The pleasures of British life, the impact of visiting historical places, and the cultural significance of heritage—from ancestral power to the unearthing of hidden treasures—.

Uncover the hidden treasures of British heritage with Hidden Heritage, where culture and history come to life.

Key Points:

00:00:05 Introduction of John Goodall and his background

00:01:35 John describes his role as architecture editor at Country Life

00:03:14 Origins of John's passion for architecture and heritage

00:05:04 John's early experiences writing for Country Life

00:06:47 Importance of visiting and experiencing historic places in person 00:08:21 Discussion of John's interest in mediaeval history

00:10:17 Description of John's doctoral research on Ewelm almshouse

00:15:03 John's first recommended destination: Durham

00:21:06 Challenges facing historic buildings and spaces

00:24:43 Impact of tax policies on preservation of heritage sites

00:32:21 John's second recommended destination: Madresfield

00:37:44 Discussion of British attitudes towards mediaeval history

00:41:13 Importance of preserving historic sites for future generations

00:45:51 Ongoing challenges related to VAT and heritage preservation

00:51:57 John's third recommended destination: Belvoir Castle

00:59:02 Tip for visitors to explore parish churches associated with historic houses

Guest Info

John Goodall is an esteemed English historian and author, currently serving as the Architectural Editor of Country Life magazine. In this role, he is responsible for writing and commissioning the celebrated series of architectural features published weekly in the magazine.

John had a diverse upbringing because he spent his childhood in Kenya, Germany, India, and Yorkshire. His professional career began with English Heritage, where he worked as a researcher and historian from 1997 to 1999 and again from 2003 to 2007. During his tenure at English Heritage, he played a pivotal role in launching the new guidebook series known as the Red Guides and contributed to several flagship exhibitions at historic sites, including Battle and Dover.

Goodall's scholarly contributions include his acclaimed second book, The English Castle, which has garnered numerous accolades.

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:

• Country Life (weekly publication)
• English Heritage
• Belvoir Castle
• Haddon Hall
• Chatsworth
• Ewellm
• Durham Cathedral
• Durham Castle
• Lady Lettice Grovesner
• Duke of Westminster
• Bostford Church
• Saint Cuthbert
• "Bridgerton"
• Madresfield

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