In this episode of the Anglotopia podcast, Jonathan and Jackie share their experiences from a recent trip to England, highlighting the long-awaited return to the country, unique events attended, and the charm of London. The conversation covers the International Churchill Conference and cultural experiences, including visits to historic sites and art exhibitions. They reflect on their dining experiences and the beauty of British culture, providing listeners with travel tips and insights into their journey.

• International Churchill Society
• International Churchill Conference
• Articles about our trip so far
• Monet Exhibition
• Van Gogh Exhibition
• Rules
• Lancaster House

• Traveling to England after a long hiatus is exhilarating.
• Unique venues like Dartmouth House enhance event experiences.
• Riding the tube in London is a cherished experience.
• The International Churchill Conference was a dream come true.
• Networking at conferences is essential for meaningful connections.
• Lancaster House offers a glimpse into British history and opulence.
• Cultural exhibitions, like Monet's, are must-see attractions.
• Dining at historic restaurants like Rules is a memorable experience.
• Planning and booking in advance is crucial for popular attractions.
• Experiencing London through its art and history enriches travel.

"I love the tube!"
"The food was amazing!"
"It was perfection!"

00:00 Welcome Back to England
04:28 The International Churchill Conference
10:09 Planning the Trip Together
11:35 Exploring London: Arrival and First Impressions
17:55 Cultural Experiences: Monet and Afternoon Tea
23:54 Dining at Rules: A Taste of Tradition
28:56 High Tea at Fortnum and Mason
59:57 anglotopia-podcast-outro.mp4

Following on from last week’s history of Thornbury Castle, this week in Part Two, we take a tour around the castle in person. In this episode of the Anglotopia podcast, we take listeners on a captivating tour of Thornbury Castle in Gloucestershire, guided by local historian Tony Cherry. The conversation delves into the rich history of the castle, its architectural features, and the life of Edward Stafford, the 3rd Duke of Buckingham, who built the castle during the Tudor period. The episode highlights the blend of fortification and luxury in the castle's design, reflecting Stafford's ambition and status. Listeners gain insights into Tudor society, the significance of the castle's features, and the historical context surrounding its construction and use. To get the full effect of this episode, we recommend watching on YouTube instead of listening.

• Part 1 Thornbury Castle Interview
• Thornbury Castle Hotel
• Thornbury Castle History

• Thornbury Castle was built by Edward Stafford in the early 1500s.
• Henry VIII visited Thornbury Castle with Anne Boleyn in 1535.
• The castle features a unique blend of fortress and palace architecture.
• Edward Stafford was known for his fashion sense and noble heritage.
• The Gardnerobe was a Tudor-era toilet, showcasing historical sanitation practices.
• Edward Stafford's ambition led him to court Henry VIII for titles.
• The castle's design reflects the social status of its owner.
• Thornbury Castle has been preserved as a hotel, allowing visitors to experience its history.
• The castle's architecture includes the oldest chimney in the country.
• The history of Thornbury Castle is intertwined with the Tudor monarchy.

This episode of the Anglotopia podcast delves into the rich history of Thornbury Castle, a Tudor castle in Gloucestershire, with resident historian Tony Cherry. The conversation explores the castle’s significance, its connection to historical figures like Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn, and the dramatic tales of the Stafford family. Listeners will learn about the castle’s architectural features, its evolution over the centuries, and the luxurious experience it offers today. The episode concludes with a discussion of the castle’s legends and the tranquil beauty of its gardens. This is the first part of a special two-part podcast, with the next episode coming next week.

• Thornbury Castle Hotel
• Thornbury Castle History

• Thornbury Castle is steeped in Tudor history.
• Edward Stafford, the 3rd Duke of Buckingham, was a significant historical figure.
• The castle has connections to Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn.
• The Stafford family faced numerous beheadings throughout Tudor history.
• Thornbury Castle evolved from a royal castle to a luxurious hotel.
• The castle reflects the lifestyle and power dynamics of the English nobility.
• Tony Cherry became a historian after early retirement from finance.
• The castle’s architecture showcases both fortification and luxury.
• Thornbury Castle has hidden secrets and archaeological finds.
• The gardens of Thornbury Castle have won prestigious awards.

In this episode of the Anglotopia podcast, host Jonathan Thomas speaks with historian Adrian Tinniswood about his latest book, ‘The Power and the Glory,’ which explores the golden age of British country houses from 1870 to 1914. They discuss the evolution of these estates, the impact of new money and technology, the changing roles of servants, and the societal scandals that characterized this fascinating period in British history. In this conversation, Jonathan Thomas and Adrian discuss the evolution of the British aristocracy, focusing on the influence of figures like the Rothschilds and Duleep Singh. They explore the allure of English country houses for American elites, the architectural innovations of the era, and the decline of grand estates due to changing social dynamics and taxation. The role of women in managing these estates is highlighted, along with the diversity of ownership that transformed country house society. Adrian also shares his interest in exploring Regency country houses in future research.

• The Power and The Glory on Amazon
• The Long Weekend
• Noble Ambitions
• Adrian Tinniswood’s Website
• Adrian Tinniswood on Twitter

• Adrian Tinniswood’s trilogy completes a century of country house history.
• The period from 1870 to 1914 is marked by both opulence and decline.
• New money and ideas transformed the traditional aristocracy.
• Technological advancements changed the dynamics of country house life.
• The introduction of the motor car and railways made country houses more accessible.
• Electricity and modern conveniences began to reshape domestic life.
• The servant problem emerged as women sought other employment opportunities.
• Scandals in high society reflected broader societal changes.
• American millionaires and Jewish bankers influenced British aristocracy.
• The acceptance of new entrants into the country house world was complex and varied. The Rothschilds are viewed as new money due to their Jewish heritage.
• Alfred Rothschild’s eccentricities included pet zebras and a private orchestra.
• Duleep Singh’s acceptance in British society was complicated by racism.
• American elites sought legitimacy through ownership of country houses.
• Edward VII’s friendships with outsiders relaxed social conventions.
• By 1914, new money was largely accepted in British society.
• Cardiff Castle exemplifies extravagant architectural innovation.
• Death duties significantly impacted the sustainability of estates.
• Women played crucial roles in managing country houses, often overlooked.
• Diversity in ownership brought fresh perspectives to country house society.

• “It’s a fascinating period of the British country house.”
• “The idea of new blood being introduced is very distinctive.”
• “The servant problem starts to bite but it is slow to hit the country house.”
• “Rothschilds are still considered new money.”
• “Alfred Rothschild had pet zebras.”
• “Duleep Singh hated the English, with good reason.”

• 00:00 Introduction to British Country Houses
• 02:56 The Golden Age of Country Houses
• 05:50 Technological Advancements and Social Changes
• 08:51 The Servant Problem and Domestic Life
• 11:33 Scandals and Gossip in High Society
• 14:39 New Entrants to the Country House World
• 22:30 The Legacy of the Rothschilds
• 24:02 Duleep Singh: The Last Maharaja’s Struggle for Acceptance
• 26:52 American Elites and the British Aristocracy
• 29:35 The Changing Dynamics of Wealth and Class
• 33:32 Architectural Innovations in Country Houses
• 38:30 The Decline of the Grand Estate
• 42:09 The Role of Women in Country House Management
• 45:03 Diversity in Country House Ownership
• 46:24 Exploring Regency Country Houses

In this captivating episode of the Anglotopia Podcast, we sit down with historian and author Sophie Shorland to discuss her new book, The Lost Queen: The Surprising Life of Catherine of Braganza. Sophie takes us through the life of this often-overlooked queen, whose marriage to Charles II played a pivotal role in shaping Anglo-Portuguese relations, Britain's cultural landscape, and the introduction of tea drinking to the UK. The conversation dives into Catherine's struggles with her childlessness, her husband's numerous affairs, and her attempts to influence both Portuguese and British politics—all while remaining a devout Catholic in a staunchly Protestant England.

• Win a Copy of The Lost Queen
• Buy The Lost Queen on Amazon
• Buy The Lost Queen on Bookshop.org

• Catherine of Braganza was a Portuguese queen who married Charles II, becoming an essential figure in Anglo-Portuguese relations.
• Her marriage helped bring Bombay (now Mumbai) into British hands, influencing the future of the British Empire in India.
• Catherine introduced tea drinking to the English aristocracy, helping to popularize tea in Britain.
• Despite her struggles with infertility and Charles II's mistresses, she maintained her dignity and navigated her complex royal life.
• Catherine's influence extended beyond her personal life, including contributions to the arts, Baroque music, and diplomacy between Britain and Portugal.
• She returned to Portugal after Charles II's death, where she played a significant role in the country's political affairs.

• "Catherine of Braganza was much more than just Charles II's wife. She shaped diplomacy, influenced the arts, and brought tea drinking to England—an entire culture owes its roots to her."
• "Despite being childless and dealing with a king known for his mistresses, Catherine managed to hold her ground and maintain her dignity as queen."
• "Catherine’s dowry brought Bombay into British hands, which set the stage for the future of Britain's empire in India."
• "Imagine arriving in a new country, seasick, and the first thing you ask for is tea—but no one in England had even heard of it back then!"

• 00:00 Introduction to Catherine of Braganza
  02:38 Catherine's Early Life and Historical Context
  05:07 Restoration England and Political Landscape
  07:54 Catherine's Influence on British Imperialism
  10:32 Catherine as a Cultural Influencer
  13:20 Catherine's Role in the Arts
  15:46 Navigating Catholicism in a Protestant England
  18:31 Catherine's Personal Challenges and Resilience
  21:28 Surprising Discoveries in Research
  24:08 Catherine's Diplomatic Role
  26:34 Catherine's Financial Impact on England
  28:46 Catherine's Legacy in Anglo-Portuguese Relations
  31:10 Lessons from Catherine's Life

In this episode of the Anglotopia podcast, journalist and historian Robert Hutton discusses his book 'The Illusionist,' which explores the life of Colonel Dudley Clark, a master of military deception during World War II. Hutton reveals how Clark's innovative strategies and eccentric personality played a crucial role in shaping the course of the war, particularly through psychological warfare and deception techniques. The conversation delves into Clark's colorful life in Cairo, his relationship with Winston Churchill, and the lasting impact of his work on modern military tactics.

• Buy The Illusionist on Amazon
• Buy The Illusionist on Bookshop.org
• Robert Hutton's Website
• SAS Rogue Heroes

• Colonel Dudley Clarke’s pivotal role in WWII deception tactics.
• Clarke's creativity, influenced by his love for magic and showmanship.
• Clarke’s eccentric personality, including his scandalous arrest in Madrid.
• How Clarke’s strategies misled the Nazis, shaping military deception.
• Clarke’s influence on modern special forces, including the creation of the SAS.
• His role in large-scale operations like D-Day through misdirection.
• Clarke's lifelong passion for trickery, even beyond military contexts.

• “Clarke was not just a military man, he was a magician – weaving tricks that fooled Hitler’s army.”
• “He was once arrested in Madrid, dressed as a woman – a scandal that almost cost him everything.”
• “Clarke’s brilliance wasn’t just in strategy, but in storytelling. He led the Nazis to believe entire armies existed where none did.”
• “Dudley Clarke helped create the SAS—one of the most elite fighting forces in the world.”
• “In Cairo, Clarke thrived as a maverick, turning his eccentricity into a weapon against the enemy.”

• 00:00 Introduction to Colonel Dudley Clark
• 03:35 The Discovery of Dudley Clark's Story
• 11:22 Clark's Role in Military Deception
• 18:47 The Genius of Deception
• 25:34 Psychological Warfare Techniques
• 32:08 The Impact of Clark's Personality
• 39:15 Churchill's Awareness of Clark
• 46:12 Clark's Colorful Life in Cairo
• 52:40 Anecdotes and Personal Insights about Clark

In this special sponsored episode of the Anglotopia podcast, we interview Ben Elman, founder of datingacrossthepond.com (formerly Date British Guys). We discuss the history and evolution of Ben’s international dating platform, exploring the unique challenges and benefits of transatlantic relationships. The conversation covers cultural differences in dating between the UK and US, the appeal of British accents, and how communication styles vary between the two countries. Ben shares insights on building trust in online dating, the importance of video interviews, and success stories from his platform. The episode also touches on the impact of British media on American perceptions and the nuances of British humor.

• Dating Across The Pond Website

• International dating platforms can foster meaningful connections by allowing people to meet potential partners from different cultures.
• Paid memberships and video interviews can enhance trust and safety in online dating.
• Cultural differences between the UK and US, such as communication styles and humor, can add intrigue to transatlantic relationships.
• British accents are often appealing to Americans, though the distinctions between different UK accents may not always be apparent to US listeners.
• Transatlantic dating often leads to a slower, more deliberate process of getting to know each other, which can be beneficial for building relationships.
• The influence of British media in the US contributes to the appeal of dating British people.

• “I think when you look at most international dating, you have to remember that the competition out there, for the most part, obviously you’ve got the big players, like Tinder, for example, and Bumble allow you to change your setting to be in another country. But that doesn’t mean that the people you’re seeing are particularly interested in people from your country or people from your nationality.”
• “I think Americans are a bit more literal. I think when they say something, that’s exactly what they mean. But when it comes to British, I think there’s a lot of different meanings to what they’re saying.”
• “I think in the UK, you can say the same thing in 10 different ways. And it could mean at least five to 10 different things. And I think that in America, they are much like, whatever they say is what they mean.”
• “I think that the American connection to the UK means that already right at the beginning, there’s this like goal of romance and love and this sort of interest level is higher in the other person’s culture.”
• “You watch British humor and it’s what’s not said that is really funny. And it’s where it could be two meanings and that’s where it’s funny.”

• 00:00 Introduction to Transatlantic Dating
• 04:59 Transition to Dating Across the Pond
• 11:00 Building Trust and Safety in Online Dating
• 14:05 Success Stories from the Platform
• 27:22 Cultural Differences in Dating
• 32:38 Communication Styles: British vs. American
• 43:11 Conclusion and Final Thoughts