London History

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 h...

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...

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 discove...

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 j...

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,...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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 Midl...

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...

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 t...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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

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 t...

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

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...

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...

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...

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 M...

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 episo...

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...