Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcast: Recent Episodes
Atlantic Garden Media
My husband, the 8th Earl of Carnarvon, and I have the enormous privilege and pleasure of living in, and taking care of, my husband’s family home, Highclere Castle, which is better known to many people as the setting for the popular television programme “Downton Abbey”. Thanks to this series, our home has, over the last few years, become one of the most well-known and iconic houses in the world. My Podcast is my way of trying to share the stories and heritage of this wonderful building and estate, and all the people and animals that live and work here, so that you can get to know and love it as I do.
I'm delighted to have the prolific author Santa Sebag Montefiore as my special guest. We reminisce about our early days and dive into Santa's successful writing career, including her latest book in the Pixie Tate series. Santa shares insights into her writing process, the inspiration behind her characters, and her love for weaving spiritual themes into her novels. We also discuss the challenges of breaking into the literary world and the importance of hope and faith for young people today. Join us for a heartfelt conversation filled with personal anecdotes and fascinating stories.
00:45 Santa Montefiore's Writing Journey
01:38 The Time Slide Series
03:51 Spiritual Themes in Writing
06:17 Early Inspirations and Writing Beginnings
09:34 First Publishing Success
16:49 International Book Tours and Challenges
23:44 Personal Spiritual Experiences
You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/
New episodes are published on the first day of every month.
Lady Carnarvon welcomes Harriet Evans, a former publisher turned writer, to Highclere Castle. Harriet discusses her journey from working at Penguin Books to becoming a successful author. They delve into her latest book, 'The Treasures,' part of the Seven Stones Trilogy, which is rich in historical and geographical details. Harriet shares her writing process, her love for creating vivid settings, and the influence of her literary family. The conversation also touches on overcoming insecurities, the importance of good editors, and the challenges of choosing book titles and covers. Lady Carnarvon and Harriet bond over their shared appreciation for history, places, and the personal treasures that inspire their works.
00:45 Harriet's Early Writing Journey
02:02 Family Influence and Writing Motivation
02:46 Challenges and Growth as a Writer
04:10 The Importance of Place in Writing
07:11 Career Beginnings and Publishing Insights
10:23 Research and Writing Process
15:20 Historical Inspirations and Personal Stories
18:42 Reflecting on Youth and Memories
19:19 The Significance of Letters and Treasures
21:53 Writing and Publishing Journey
23:07 Challenges and Triumphs in Writing
24:32 Navigating the Publishing Industry
30:06 The Importance of Covers and Titles
32:05 The Value of Books and Reading
32:54 Highclere Castle Garden Party
You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/
New episodes are published on the first day of every month.
I welcome my dear friend Callie Coles to the podcast. Callie, the author of a fabulous new book and the first of a trilogy, shares whimsical tales from her bucolic life on the Devon-Cornwall border. We delve into her enchanting Instagram account, which offers a nostalgic glimpse into her world filled with ponies, dogs, and her picturesque home. We discuss Callie's unique and therapeutic relationship with her pony, Sparky, whose presence has become a ray of sunshine in their already idyllic life. Callie also talks about her writing journey, balancing her creative endeavors with the lively chaos of family life and the adventures that inspired her book set in Newmarket. Join us as we explore the joys of animals, the magic of rural life, and the emotional rollercoaster of being an author. Finally, Callie shares her insights into the highs and lows of the writing process and offers a sneak peek into her next literary endeavors.
01:01 Life in North Devon
01:39 Meet Sparky the Pony
03:06 The Story of Sparky's Arrival
08:07 Writing Amidst Chaos
08:53 Racing Adventures in Newmarket
13:47 Self-Publishing Journey
14:41 The Rollercoaster of Writing
15:21 The Editor's Red Pen
16:19 Recording the Audiobook
17:41 The Book Club Journey
22:21 Drawing from Life Experiences
23:36 Ponies and Childhood Memories
25:59 Living with Horses
27:38 The Charm of Stately Homes
You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/
New episodes are published on the first day of every month.
Today, I am delighted to be joined by Owen O'Kane, an expert psychotherapist specializing in anxiety. Owen shares his unique perspective on viewing anxiety as an ally that can be positively harnessed when understood properly. We dive into his latest book, which provides not only a deep insight into anxiety but practical steps to manage it. Owen opens up about his personal experiences with anxiety, his professional insights from working in palliative care, and his childhood in Northern Ireland. We also discuss the therapeutic benefits of connecting with animals and simple moments of contentment in life. Join us as we explore transforming anxiety into a source of strength and clarity.
01:20 Discussing the Book and Anxiety
02:18 Personal Experiences with Anxiety
04:15 Therapeutic Approaches to Anxiety
06:41 Analogies and Real-Life Examples
07:46 The Role of Animals in Therapy
13:10 Final Thoughts and Reflections
You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/
New episodes are published on the first day of every month.
I'm delighted to welcome the wonderful Miranda Hart to our podcast. We cover many topics, from the importance of joyfulness and humor in life to her iconic character Ms. Bates in Jane Austen's 'Emma'.
Miranda opens up about the challenges she faced during her career and the inspiration behind her book, 'I Haven't Been Entirely Honest With You'.
We chat about the intricacies of British humor, the pressures of performing in front of a studio audience, and the technical aspects of comedy.
Miranda also shares personal stories about her health struggles, finding strength in vulnerability, and her unique approach to writing, which includes 'treasures of darkness' she discovered through her own experiences. Join us for this heartfelt and humorous conversation, complete with aspirations for future gallops around the garden and cherished moments of British comedic history.
00:56 Discussing British Humor and Sitcoms
01:45 Miranda's Memorable Roles and Experiences
03:00 The Art of Comedy and Scriptwriting
07:51 Challenges and Vulnerability in Acting
09:24 Miranda's Book and Personal Treasures
13:08 Living with Chronic Illness
19:39 Finding Joy and Future Plans
You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/
New episodes are published on the first day of every month.
I'm thrilled to welcome the incredibly talented craftsman, Matthew Edley, known as Ted. Sitting down at Highclere Castle, we delve into Ted's journey from a punk rocker with a distinct red Mohican to a renowned metalwork master. We talk about his meticulous work repairing and conserving the castle’s historical candelabra and lamps, including converting them from candlelight to electric while maintaining their historical integrity. Ted also shares his experiences as a part of the TV series 'The Restorers,' where he showcases the art of craftsmanship and restoration. We discuss the importance of using traditional techniques and materials to preserve history and how these skills are transferred across various trades. Join us as we celebrate the blend of modern restoration with historical preservation at Highclere Castle.
00:43 Ted's Craftsmanship and Metalworking
01:20 Challenges of Restoring Highclere Castle
03:17 Conservation vs. Restoration
07:44 Ted's Television Career
09:11 The Art of Traditional Techniques
11:52 Future Projects and Collaborations
14:53 Reflections on Highclere Castle
You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/
New episodes are published on the first day of every month.
In this podcast episode, I am delighted to welcome author Sinclair Mackay to discuss his captivating book on Winston Churchill, which delves into 90 meetings over Churchill's 90-year life. Our conversation covers Churchill's diverse roles and personal attributes, from his military valour to his romanticism, and even his encounters with notable figures like Einstein and Queen Elizabeth II. Sinclair shares how Churchill's fearless and multifaceted nature made him an extraordinary figure, one who continually adapted to monumental changes in society. We also touch on Churchill's lasting impact on today's world and the different generations' perceptions of him. It's a thoroughly engaging discussion filled with fun anecdotes and thought-provoking insights about one of history's most complex characters.
00:36 Churchill's Fascinating Encounters
01:07 Writing Style and Approach
02:14 Churchill's Relationships and Personal Life
04:42 Churchill's Military and Political Career
06:25 Churchill's Emotional Depth and Romanticism
10:52 Churchill's Social and Financial Challenges
14:42 Churchill's Diverse Friendships and Interests
15:32 Highclere Castle and Social Changes
16:09 Churchill's Lifespan and Historical Impact
18:26 Churchill's Fearlessness and Adventures
21:10 Churchill's Post-War Vision and Legacy
24:45 Churchill's Relationships and Influence
27:40 Reflections on Churchill's Complex Legacy
You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/
New episodes are published on the first day of every month.
In this episode, I sit down with the immensely talented artist and illustrator, Lucy Clare Dunbar, at Highclere Castle. Lucy shares her journey into becoming an illustrator, influenced by her father's artistry, and her love for drawing from a young age. She discusses the challenges she faced, particularly losing her sight due to health issues, and how drawing became a form of therapy for her.
Her sight eventually returned, giving her a profound appreciation for life. We delve into her book 'The Book of Gifts,' which combines her heartfelt sketches and words that reflect her personal experiences and hopes to uplift others. Lucy also talks about her creative family, her process of combining words with sketches, and how she draws inspiration from everyday moments and her beloved pets. Her story is a testament to resilience, creativity, and the importance of living in the present.
01:35 Lucy's Artistic Journey
02:00 Overcoming Adversity
03:43 Family of Artists
04:37 The Book of Gifts
06:42 The Creative Process
13:16 Love for Animals
16:18 Living in the Moment
You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/
New episodes are published on the first day of every month.
Today, I'm thrilled to welcome one of my favorite historians, Alice Loxton, to the castle. We discuss her fascinating book 'Eighteen', which delves into the lives of historical figures when they were 18 years old. Alice shares her passion for medieval history and reveals how @history_alice came into being. We explore her unique approach to writing, imagining historical characters in modern settings to bring them to life. I was particularly intrigued by her diverse selection of characters, from Bede to Vivienne Westwood, and how she makes history accessible and engaging for everyone.
00:22 Exploring Historical Layers
01:04 The Book 'Eighteen' and Its Unique Approach
04:13 Diverse Historical Figures
09:49 Social Media and History
18:04 Writing and Research Process
25:37 Future Plans
You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/
New episodes are published on the first day of every month.
In this episode, I sit down with aviation author Rowland White to discuss Geoffrey de Havilland's remarkable contributions to aviation, focusing on the iconic Mosquito plane. We explore de Havilland's early failures and eventual successes, including his innovative use of wood to construct aircraft.
We also delve into personal stories connected to Highclere Castle and discuss
ongoing efforts to restore Mosquito planes to flying condition!
You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/
New episodes are published on the first day of every month.
In my first podcast of the year, I am joined by my husband, to discuss reflections on the past year and hopes for the future. We talk about various personal and public topics including the challenges of the past year, changes in the weather, and updates from our lives.
We discuss the upcoming release of a third Downton Abbey film and chat about our gardening efforts, plans for hosting events at Highclere Castle, our gin production achievements, and hopes for our horses in training.
It is so important to maintain optimism and cherish moments of joy amidst ongoing global and personal challenges.
00:19 Reflecting on the Past Year
00:45 Weather and Hopes for the New Year
00:57 Downton Abbey Updates
03:08 Springtime in the Gardens
04:40 Memorial Garden
06:40 Highclere Castle Projects
08:01 Guided Tours and Exhibitions
09:10 Farming and Gin Production
14:57 Horse Breeding and Training
16:11 Life with Nine Dogs
You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/
New episodes are published on the first day of every month.
My guest this month is Liz Earle, renowned for her iconic beauty products. Liz discusses her transition from running a beauty brand to writing about health and wellness.
We talk about her latest book, which offers personal insights and practical advice for living a healthier and longer life, especially for midlife women.
We explore topics like nutrition, gut health, the importance of social connections, and self-care.
Liz also shares her personal journey, her passion for community, and her humanitarian work in Africa.
The episode concludes with reflections on maintaining brain health, physical fitness, and the critical role of nourishment.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:30 Liz Earle's Journey in Beauty and Wellness
01:06 Writing and Living Well Longer
02:49 Challenges and Health Tips for Midlife Women
06:52 The Importance of Social Connections
11:30 Grounding and Connecting with Nature
14:42 Nutrition, Cooking, and Sustainable Living
19:18 Future Projects and Longevity Goals
21:01 Balancing Personal Life and Public Image
27:39 Conclusion and Farewell
You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/
New episodes are published on the first day of every month.
My guest this month is a trusted and familiar broadcaster on all things medical.
Best known for his regular TV appearances he's also no stranger to writing. But until recently his books have been strictly non-fiction. Now he's branched out into story-telling with his WWI novel, Frontline, published in September 2021. I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with him.
You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/
New episodes are published on the first day of every month.
I'll let you listen to this edition of my podcast to find out exactly how I first met Tom, but suffice to say it has been a great joy to get to know him. Tom is a writer, actor, TV presenter but is perhaps best known as a stand-up comedian. These days he's rarely off the TV so it was fabulous that he found time to join me for a chat at the real Downton Abbey!
You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/
New episodes are published on the first day of every month.
Joining me at the real Downton Abbey for this month's podcast is the author Veronica Henry. Veronica has written more than twenty bestselling novels having started her career as a script writer in TV and Radio. Her latest book is called 'The Secret Beach' - a perfect read as we bid farewell to summer.
You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/
New episodes are published on the first day of every month.
For this month's podcast I had planned to take a walk through a few rooms at the real Downton Abbey with our castle manager John. Whether it was the heat of the day or the lively conversation we only made it to one room! John has been at Highclere Castle for almost twenty years and this was a chance to look back on the many achievements we've celebrated during that time. The title of this podcast was our first major project.
You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/
New episodes are published on the first day of every month.
Summer in Britain has been slow to arrive this year, but on a lovely sunny afternoon Geordie and I took a walk through the gardens to enjoy the sights, sounds, and scents that make up our beautiful surroundings. I should say that although sunny it was a little windy but don't be put off by the background noise we do find shelter from the wind at plenty of points along the way. So whatever you're doing come along with us on our summer walk.
You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/
New episodes are published on the first day of every month.
In the midst of filming for the third Downton Abbey movie I was pleased to welcome John Tye to Highclere. John is an inspirational character who flew the record-breaking supersonic airliner Concorde. Starting life in an orphanage he made it to the edge of space in one of the world's most advanced flying machines. He's just published his story in a new book called 'Life of a Concorde Pilot'.
This is John's second appearance on my podcast! You can also hear him in episode 23 when he was one of the three Concorde pilots I had the pleasure of talking to.
You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/
New episodes are published on the first day of every month.
In this episode of my podcast I get to talk about two of my great loves - words and language.
My guest Susie Dent is an English lexicographer, etymologist, and the word referee in "Dictionary Corner" on the TV game show Countdown since 1992.
Susie is also a bestselling author having written many books on the English language including her latest which is aimed at children, "Roots of Happiness: 100 Words for Joy and Hope".
I was delighted she agreed to join me as a guest on my podcast here at the real Downton Abbey.......
You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/
New episodes are published on the first day of every month.
My guest this month is local nature writer Nicola Chester.
As Spring arrives at the real Downton Abbey it was lovely to sit down and talk about the beautiful countryside that surrounds us.
Nicola's Award Winning Memoir is called 'On Gallows Down: Place, Protest and Belonging'.
You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/
New episodes are published on the first day of every month.
Behind the scenes at the real Downton Abbey this month I'm talking to raecehorse trainer Richard Hannon who is not only a good friend to my husband and myself but looks after some of the racehorses we've bred.
Racing is very close to our hearts here at Highclere Castle especially as my father in law was the late Queen's racing manager and Richard's father trained some of Her Majesty's horses.
Richard took over from his father in 2014 and clocked up his 1000th winner on Derby Day in 2019 and is now well on his way towards winner number 2000.
You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/
New episodes are published on the first day of every month.
This month I'm joined by my friend and respected interior designer Sarah Morris.
Sarah has been by my side as I've worked to restore and re-decorate the very many rooms here at Highclere Castle over the past 20 years. From wallpaper, Royal house guests and even ghosts, join me and Sarah on an interior design tour of the real Downton Abbey!
You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/
New episodes are published on the first day of every month.
Happy New Year! What better way to start 2024 than by welcoming historian, author, broadcaster and good friend Bettany Hughes to 'the real Downton Abbey'.
You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/
New episodes are published on the first day of every month.
December is traditionally the month for giving so it's perhaps apt that my guest this month is the founder of a wonderful charity Starlight.
Starlight raises funds for children’s play in healthcare, supporting children to experience the power of play to boost their wellbeing and resilience during illness.
We've supported Starlight here at Highclere for at least 20 years so it was a great pleasure to welcome actress Emma Samms to tell me about how the charity started and the work they do to support sick children.
You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/
New episodes are published on the first day of every month.
My guest this month is the author Victoria Hislop.
Victoria has entranced us all with her wonderful stories about Greece. Her debut book 'The Island' became an international bestseller, and her latest is called 'The figurine'.
You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/
New episodes are published on the first day of every month.
This month's podcast is all about one of my favourite topics Egyptology. Joining me at Highclere Castle is Dr Colleen Darnell, an Egyptologist, author and educator.
Her latest book 'Egypt’s Golden Couple: When Akhenaten and Nefertiti Were Gods on Earth' was co-authored with her husband, John Coleman Darnell, Professor of Egyptology at Yale University.
It's a fascinating read even for non-egyptologists!
You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/
New episodes are published on the first day of every month.
My guest this month is one of best girl friends. I've known 'smiles' since I met her at university and she's remained a close friend ever since. Recently she's worked alongside me in the preparation of my book 'The Earl and the Pharaoh', so I thought an ideal time to sit down with her and reminisce on our friendship.
You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/
New episodes are published on the first day of every month.
It's August and my guest this month is the author of some books which I thoroughly recommend as excellent summer reading.
'The Power of Geography' by Tim Marshall has already been shared around my family and I'm sure his new book 'The Future of Geography' is going to be just as popular.
Tim joined me at Highclere to discuss his books, his style of writing, and as a former TV foreign correspondent his views on the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
I hope you'll take this podcast on your vacation and share our conversation.
You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/
New episodes are published on the first day of every month.
My guest this month is a dear friend, and renowned author, Shrabani Basu.
Shrabani is an Indian journalist and historian who is perhaps best known for writing the true story of 'Victoria & Abdul' about Queen Victoria's friendship with an Indian attendant Abdul Karim.
It was a joy to sit down and talk to Shrabani - I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/
New episodes are published on the first day of every month.
My guest this month is the WW2 history author James Holland. I've got to know James over the years having appeared as a guest on several occasions at the wonderful history festival he founded. The Chalke Valley history festival in the nearby county of Wiltshire has grown to be one of the biggest events of its kind in the world.
You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/
New episodes are published on the first day of every month.
Often the starting point for one of my books on the history of Highclere Castle is a conversation with David Rymill. David is our archivist and there's not much he doesn't know about the family history thanks to the extensive archive of documents and letters dating back to when the family first acquired the house in the 17th century. I find the archive here at Highclere fascinating so I was grateful to David for sitting down with me to discuss his work.
You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/
New episodes are published on the first day of every month.
Jane Austen is one of England’s most celebrated and greatest novelists and Hampshire - the county where Highclere Castle is situated - played an important part in her life, not just as the place she lived but as inspiration to many of her novels.
Jane Austen is one of my favourite authors so I was thrilled to sit down with Lizzie Dunford - Director of Jane Austen's House - one of the most treasured Austen sites in the world.
The cottage, in a village to the south-east of Highclere called Chawton, is where Jane Austen lived for the last eight years of her life.
Here her genius flourished and she wrote, revised and had published all six of her globally beloved novels: Sense and Sensibility, Pride and Prejudice, Mansfield Park, Emma, Northanger Abbey and Persuasion.
You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/
New episodes are published on the first day of every month.
We're back after a month away to recharge our podcast batteries!
My guest for March is someone very familiar to British TV audiences - weather presenter Laura Tobin.
Laura has just written a book called 'Everyday Ways To Save Our Planet' - and so I invited her to come along to Highclere and share some of her tips with me!
Happy New Year!
We begin 2023 in conversation with one of the people who has helped me unearth the rich aviation history that surrounds Highclere Castle. I first met George Bacon at an event to commemorate Sir Geoffrey De Havilland's first flight on the Highclere Estate at Seven Barrows. Since then he's become a friend and contributor to many events here at the real Downton Abbey.
My guest this month has just published a wonderfully amusing book that looks back on her incredible life. Susannah Constantine is best known as a TV fashion expert, but as she tells me in this podcast her years on television are the least interesting thing about her. Join us in the castle's morning room for some extraordinary anecdotes involving Royalty, teapots and sobriety!
The theme of our recent Highclere Festival was the path to the discovery of the tomb of Tutankhamun. It is an extraordinary tale of two unconventional men, Lord Carnarvon and Howard Carter, neither of whom had studied archaeology at university but both of whom, through experience and passion, found the most extraordinary tomb of a Pharaoh. It's the subject of my new book 'The Earl and the Pharaoh'. Joining us over the festival weekend to help further our understanding was egyptologist Professor Joann Fletcher - I couldn't resist luring her away to talk to her for my podcast!
The death of Her Majesty the Queen last month was both sad and unsettling. My own experience of meeting her was entirely due to her long friendship with my father-in-law and mother-in-law. In fact my father-in-law was her racing manager at one time, and my husband had the great honour of being her godson. So for this month's podcast I'm joined by Geordie to share some memories of a remarkable person.
I recently had the pleasure of sitting down in the castle library to speak to Gavin Thurston. Combining lenses and penmanship, he has written a fabulous book called “Journey into the Wild, The Secret life of a cameraman” which shares stories of his time behind the scenes during the course of many years filming with Sir David Attenborough.
The recent record high temperatures in the UK has brought climate change back into the headlines. Seasoned climatologists who knew we'd one day break through the 40C barrier have spoken about being stunned to see it happen so soon. Here at Highclere we're always thinking about what we can do to protect our fragile planet. With that in mind my guest this month is very much on topic. Rod Rougelot is a good friend who has spent decades working in recycling and sustainability. I found our conversation both interesting and thought provoking - I hope you do too.
Last week I was in the US, and I was honoured to be invited by the Newport Preservation Society to speak at a number of events in order to help them raise money to sustain some great houses they look after. Many of the houses were lost post WW2, but a number of determined women have helped save what is now left.
From lunches to meetings, press conferences, filming, talks and presentations, it was a busy and fascinating schedule. I met some wonderful people and was made to feel extremely welcome for which I am grateful.
One of those people was the chairman of the society Bill Lucey, who is my guest on this month's podcast.
After 36 months it's been a joy to welcome back the Highclere Show. It's a festival and celebration of country life that is always great entertainment for the thousands that come here every May. In this month's podcast I sat down with the organiser Jerome Roberts - do have a listen and maybe we'll see you here next year!
My guest this month is a wonderful lady called Emma Kane. As well as being a hugely successful businesswoman Emma is Chair of Target Ovarian Cancer. It's a charity I have a particular interest in having lost my mother to ovarian cancer. I hope you'll find our conversation insightful and if you'd like to find out more about the charity please visit their website: targetovariancancer.org.uk/
April sees the release of the second Downton Abbey movie - a new era. It was filmed here this time last year under strict covid restrictions. I thought it would be the ideal time to reflect on on some of the podcasts where we've discussed living with a film crew whether it be the six years of the TV series or the last two movies. You'll hear extracts from my conversations with writer and creator Julian Fellowes (Episode 43), castle manager John Gundill (Episode 41), and Downton Abbey location manager Mark Ellis (Episode 20). I hope after listening to this edition you'll take the opportunity to listen to some of the other podcasts that make up the audio library of life here at the 'real Downton Abbey'!
(Additional sound effects in this edition from zapsplat.com)
My wonderful friend Sara Bathurst joins me this month. Sara lives at a beautiful stately home called Cirencester Park around 40 miles to the north-west of Highclere Castle. Cirencester is the largest town in the beautiful cotswolds area of south-central England. As you'll hear Sara and I share much in common.
Highclere Castle gin is the result of four years preparation and nine months of tasting. We wanted to create something very, very good and it has now become one of the most awarded gins in world – so it is “very Highclere” which was the novelist Evelyn Waugh’s shorthand for something excellent. Our gin is about fun. It is about conversation, glamour, parties, dancing and celebrations: all the things that have had to be postponed in last year or so. With me to talk about the development of Highclere Castle Gin is friend and business partner Adam Von Gootkin.
At this time of year I inevitably look back on the challenges and triumphs of the past twelve months and forward to the hopes a new year brings. Joining me in this edition of my podcast is my husband Geordie as we look 'backwards and forwards'!
My latest podcast was recorded on a recent trip to the US. As we end this year I was there to plan an exciting return visit in the spring when I'll be undertaking a tour to talk about my new book 'Seasons at Highclere', (and of course the new Downton Abbey movie!) Helping me with these adventures is my speaking agent Patsy Arnett who I've working with for the past ten years. I hope you enjoy our conversation.
Julian Fellowes is the creator, writer and co-producer of Downton Abbey, an extraordinary feat and has kept us all entertained on Sunday evenings over six years as well as writing two film scripts. The first was tremendously successful and the latest film will come out in early 2022. The real Downton Abbey, the very Library in which we are sitting is also Highclere Castle. I hope you find this podcast as enjoyable to listen to as we did in casting our minds back to the very beginning as well thinking about the second film.
Eight planes went down here on the Estate during World War Two and, as a result, I now “own” a few remains of a B-17 bomber. Over the past few years I've researched the aircraft and the lives of the crews that were lost here, even tracing surviving family members and on occasionally welcoming them to the estate to remember their loved ones. One of the people who has helped me on this journey is Paul McTaggart. When I first met him he was a willing volunteer with a metal detector, now he's part of the team here at Highclere.
You might also want to listen to episode 5 which also deals with Highclere's connections with aviation.
I've just heard that that the new Downton Abbey movie will be released next year so to celebrate I thought I'd sit down with castle manager John Gundill.
John has steered us through our long association with the Downton Abbey project and I thought it was a good opportunity to share our memories of what it was like to host the cast and production team in such challenging circumstances earlier this year. But of course that's not all we talked about.....
It's not the first time I've invited John as my guest on my podcast - you can hear him on episodes 14 and 20 as well!
I hope you enjoy our chat and do make sure you press the subscribe button to ensure you receive future editions.
Thank you.
One of my favourite social events of the year at Highclere is the Battle Proms. Usually we host around 10,000 people at the event, but this year we're being more cautious with numbers. As we emerge from the past year of inertia it's wonderful to welcome Adam Slough, the producer of the Battle Proms, to my podcast.
My guest this month is my good friend Rafia Willmott.
When Rafia's husband John fell ill in 2010 she was inspired to create a restaurant catering for people who need, or desire, to eat healthily.
If like me you enjoy creating (and consuming) good food, I'm sure you'll be fascinated by Rafia's story.
As the Downton Abbey movie cast and crew complete filming at Highclere Castle Lady Carnarvon sits down with her favourite guest - her husband!
With spring transitioning to summer and the castle opening up again to the public, it's time for a catch up and to look forward to the year ahead at 'the real Downton Abbey'.
In this fascinating episode of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcast her friend and neighbour Sir Peter Michael discusses his fascinating and varied career.
Sir Peter tells the story of the business he is most proud of - the Peter Michael Winery in northern California, how he started the UK's first national commercial classical music radio station Classic FM, and how at the age of 83 he is still innovating to make the world a better place with the creation of a new covid-19 testing platform.
Sir Peter was also the driving force behind a charitable foundation which took-over the nearby airbase at Greenham Common after the USAF vacated it at the end of the Cold War in 1992. The Greenham Common Trust has gone on to raise millions of pounds for charity groups in the area surrounding Highclere Castle.
In this month's episode Lady Carnarvon talks to her neighbour and friend Sarah Sladen.
Sarah runs a farm near to Highclere so it was a good opportunity to sit down and swop stories about pigs, sheep and the land.
As we discover Sarah also has a link to Downton Abbey.......
One of the worst affected industry's during the coronavirus pandemic has been hospitality. Bars, restaurants, hotels, visitor attractions, nightclubs, the list of businesses forced to suspend their activities seems endless. Lady Carnarvon's guest this week knows all about the devastating economic impact of the virus. Ranald Macdonald is the managing-director and founder of Boisdales - a group comprising of four live music restaurants in London. He first met Lady Carnarvon when they attended St Andrew's University together.
For Lady Carnarvon's first podcast of 2021 she catches up with her Hampshire neighbour and friend actress Sarah Parish. Close followers of life at the 'real Downton Abbey' will know Sarah spoke at Lady Carnarvon's 'Script to Screen' event in 2018. As well as a highly successful TV and film actress Sarah is a fundraiser. Along with her husband Jim Murray she set up The Murray Parish Trust in 2014 in memory of their late daughter Ella-Jayne who died of congenital heart failure in 2009. The charity has raised millions of pounds to support Paediatric Emergency Medicine at the University Hospital Southampton.
As 2021 gets underway Lady Carnarvon sits down with Lord Carnarvon to discuss their plans for the new year.
From now on Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcast will be released monthly on the last Thursday of each month.
It's Christmas Eve and Lord and Lady Carnarvon sit down to look back on festive celebrations at Highclere Castle down the years. They also reflect on a quite extraordinary year at the 'real' Downton Abbey, and discuss this year's quiet family Christmas. In Next week's episode they look forward to what they hope will be a more joyful 2021!
For details of Lady Carnarvon's book 'Christmas at Highclere' follow this link: https://www.highclerecastle.co.uk/christmas-highclere
Happy Christmas!
Like Lord and Lady Carnarvon the Hon. William and Lady Ailsa Stonor look after an important historic house and estate. The Stonor family has lived at Stonor Park for more than 850 years. Situated around 40 miles to the north-east of Highclere Castle - near the Royal Regatta town of Henley - William and Ailsa have become friends of Lord and lady Carnarvon through their shared duty to protect and preserve their respective family homes for future generations.
This week Lady Carnarvon turns the tables on a TV production team that has been shadowing the Highclere staff for an observational documentary to be broadcast on TV in the UK next week. 'Christmas at Highclere' will follow the Highclere Castle team as they prepare for the public events that lead up to the festive break. Amy and Brent talk to Lady Carnarvon about their experiences of becoming part of the 'Highclere family' and how they discovered for themselves what life is like at the 'real' Downton Abbey!
You can find out more about the TV programme here: https://www.channel4.com/press/news/celebrate-christmas-two-uks-most-famous-castles
If you follow the Highclere Castle Instagram account you'll already know that a recent visitor here was the great great grandson of the novelist Charles Dickens. 177 years after it was first published 'A Christmas Carol' is still a best seller. Gerald came to Highclere in memory of the charity of which Charles Dickens was the very first Chairman https://www.trtf.com/theatrecommunityfund which helps actors in hardship. Like every actor, it has been a challenging year and Gerald has put together a full length video http://www.geralddickens.com/films.html Make sure you also watch Gerald performing three staves from the book on the Highclere Castle Instagram account.
Diana Mitchell is Highclere Castle's head guide. She leads a team of around thirty enthusiastic guides who help to ensure visitors to the 'real Downton Abbey' get the best out of their experience. Some of the guides she works with started back in 1988 when the castle first opened to the public. In this podcast Diana reflects on the impact of Downton Abbey and even the time when she was an extra in one particular episode.
There's a bit of a change this week with Lord Carnarvon taking over with the questioning. His guest is Kate Adie CBE, DL well known for her long service as the BBC's Chief News Correspondent. Kate has travelled extensively during her BBC career. The two foreign assignments she is most often associated with are the bombing of the Libyan capital Tripoli in 1986 and the Chinese authorities' killing of protestors in Tiananmen Square, Beijing, in 1989. She was on duty in London in 1980 when the siege of the Iranian Embassy was brought to an end by the SAS. Nowadays Kate presents From Our Own Correspondent and makes occasional programmes for BBC television and Radio 4. Her conversation with Lord Carnarvon was part of the 'History at Highclere' weekend.
Robert Harris is the author of thirteen bestselling novels including the Cicero Trilogy, The Ghost, An Officer and a Spy, Conclave, Munich and The Second Sleep. He lives near to Highclere Castle with his wife, Gill Hornby. This podcast is the soundtrack to a video interview with Robert recorded in the castle ahead of Lady Carnarvon's charity weekend 'History at Highclere'. He joins her to discuss his latest novel 'V2'.
Flight Lieutenant Colin Bell DFC AE FRICS RAF (retired) served in WW2 as a Mosquito Bomber Pilot. Celebrating his 100th Birthday next March, he talks all about his experiences as a pilot in WW2. His flying training was carried out in 1941 in the United States and he stayed there serving as a flying instructor until 1943. On his return to the United Kingdom in 1943 he converted to twin engine Mosquito Bombers and joined 608 Squadron (Pathfinder Group) based at Downham Market in Norfolk. During his operational tours he carried out 50 bombing raids over Germany, 13 of them over Berlin. He experienced much action and survived many close scrapes. This inspirational talk takes place in the Smoking Room at Highclere Castle, and was recorded for video as well as podcast as part of the History at Highclere weekend.
The son of a Battle of Britain Pilot, Air Commodore Rick Peacock-Edwards CBE, AFC would say he has always been involved in aviation. A pilot for the RAF for 35 years, he has gained over 7000 hours flying fighter aircrafts including the Lightning, Phantom and Tornado. His latest book, ‘Rate of Climb’ is an inspiring insight into his career with the RAF. Rick's fun-loving approach to life is evident throughout his book as well as his conversation with Lady Carnarvon in the Smoking Room at Highclere Castle. This podcast was recorded on the eve of the 'History at Highclere' event.
For more wonderful stories, be sure to buy Rick's book: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Rate-Climb.../dp/1911621467
This week's episode is named after the radio call sign of the British Airways supersonic airliner Concorde. It was 17 years ago this week that the last commercial Concorde flights landed at London's Heathrow airport. The supersonic passenger age had ended, and it's yet to restart. Lady Carnarvon lives in a place of extraordinary history so it seems apt that she should host not one but three former Concorde pilots to reflect on this incredible and historic aircraft. An aircraft far ahead of its time. It's a discussion that takes place in the Music Room at Highclere Castle.
Find out more: Steve Bohill-Smith features in Episode 5, and you can hear about the Red Arrows in Episode 13.
Lady Carnarvon's guest this week is Sally Popplewell who is responsible for the wonderful gift shop at Highclere Castle.
In episode 6 of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcast (The Highclere Castle Shoot) she spoke to Eddie Hughes the recently retired head keeper. Eddie had worked on the estate for many decades and gave a fascinating insight into days gone by. This week we meet Ben Waite who has taken-over. It's not been an easy start for Ben, within a month of him beginning his new job the pandemic hit and the UK went in lockdown. But several months later with visitors enjoying afternoon tea quietly in the background Ben sits down with Lady Carnarvon to discuss their mutual love for the wonderful countryside around the 'real' Downton Abbey.
It's ten years since Downton Abbey first aired on TV and to celebrate Lady Carnarvon welcomes back to Downton Abbey location manager Mark Ellis. 'Sparky' as he's known has been part of the production since day one and along with Lady Carnarvon and Highclere Castle manager John Gundill he's ensured the 'real' Downton Abbey has stayed in one piece during the rigours of filming. The big question is will 'sparky' be returning sooner rather than later for a new Downton Abbey film? Rumours abound as these three friends and occasional colleagues sit down to look back on an incredible decade that has made the 'real' Downton Abbey one of the most famous houses in the world.
Whilst the beauty and majesty of the 'real' Downton Abbey grabs the spotlight there is of course much more to the place Lord and Lady Carnarvon call home. Highclere Castle is situated within an estate of almost 5000 acres made up of mixed woodland and agricultural land. Looking after the crops and the animals that surround the castle is Highclere Estate Farm Manager Simon Andrews.
They say being in the right place at the right time is a key to success. That was certainly the case for James Hunter who found himself having a casual conversation with Lady Carnarvon whilst working as part of the catering team at Highclere. James had the initiative to ask for work experience and the rest as they say is history. Having just graduated he's now started a permanent role as an assistant land agent helping to run the estate alongside Lady Carnarvon.
Mike Withers has been beekeeping for more than 60 years and when he hasn't been tending his hives he's been helping his wife Pat with the painting and decorating at Highclere Castle. You can hear Pat's story in episode 4 of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcast series - but this week it's Mike's turn to talk about his lifelong fascination with bees. The Hampshire honey they produce is sold in the Castle shop, and it really is superb.
In this episode Lady Carnarvon invites one of her neighbours in for a catch up. For 12 years Sir Nicholas Kenyon was responsible for the world famous BBC Proms at the Royal Albert Hall. Recorded before the recent controversy over 'Rule Britannia', Sir Nicholas looks back on a time when he made changes to the last night of the Proms. He also talks passionately about the crisis facing the arts following the covid-19 pandemic and shares his concerns for the future.
In 2018 Lord and Lady Carnarvon staged an ambitious two-day event called 'Heroes at Highclere' to mark the 100 year anniversary of the First World War coming to an end. It was a weekend to say thank you, to remember those who served and those who saved in conflicts across the world both in the past and present. One of the organisations that the weekend raised money for was the British Armed Forces charity SSAFA. In this week's podcast Lady Carnarvon speaks to Sir Andrew Gregory KBE CB the Controller of SSAFA.
For the past 15 years John Gundill has worked side by side with Lord and Lady Carnarvon helping them shape their vision of how they want to operate Highclere Castle as a successful business. John was in the first meeting when a production team came looking for a location for a series called 'Downton Abbey'. Little did he or Lady Carnarvon know how that would go onto make Highclere Castle one of the most loved and recognisable buildings in the world. But, as we're about to find out, whether it's hosting the cast and crew of a TV and film production, or dealing with a burst pipe in the castle, there's rarely a dull day when you're the castle manager at the 'real' Downton Abbey.
Over the years the 'real' Downton Abbey has played host to many important visitors, but few have been so spectacular as the nine red-suited gentlemen who visited in 2018. The Royal Air Force Aerobatic display team 'The Red Arrows' were the star attraction at the 'Heroes at Highclere' event which marked the 100 year anniversary of the end of the First World War. In this week's podcast Lady Carnarvon welcomes back to Highclere Castle team supervisor Squadron Leader Adam Collins, also known as 'Red 10'. Last year the team spent 11 weeks in North America where they displayed at around 20 major airshows and took part in several iconic flypasts.
Luis Coelho is Highclere Castle's very own 'Carson'. He might not be as tall as his Downton Abbey counterpart but what he lacks in stature he more than makes up for with enthusiasm. This year he even has his own bar to show off his mixology skills on public open days. He's another member of the Highclere 'family' that makes the 'real' Downton Abbey such a special place to live, visit and work at.
A regular visitor to Highclere Castle is the Bishop of Basingstoke, The Rt Revd David Williams. David's Anglican role is within the diocese of Winchester and embraces many diverse and unique communities both urban and rural. As the castle emerges from the coronavirus lockdown, Lady Carnarvon discusses how the church can play its role in providing hope for the future and shares some happy memories of past dinners at the castle - including one with British food writer, chef and TV presenter Mary Berry!
Highclere castle is the birth place of a world renowned classical music festival. The Newbury Spring Festival was founded by the current Lady Carnarvon's late mother-in-law Jeanie in 1979. As well as attracting some of the greatest musicians from around the world the festival gives a chance to the very best young musical stars. In normal years the castle acts as one of the festival's many local venues. In this week's podcast Lady Carnarvon welcomes festival director Mark Eynon.
You can find out more about the festival here:
https://www.newburyspringfestival.org.uk/
If you peer into the kitchens at Highclere Castle I'm afraid you won't find Mrs Patmore, the cook, or indeed the scene you might be familiar with from Downton Abbey. The Downton kitchen is in fact a studio set in west London, but there's nothing fake about Paul Brooke-Taylor Highclere's own head chef. Paul has worked at Highclere for 12 years and along with his team produces food for the hundreds of guests that visit the 'real' Downton Abbey during public opening. Having just returned to work after the COVID-19 lockdown he sits down with Lady Carnarvon to talk about his career, his love of food & what it's like to cook at Highclere Castle.
Lady Carnarvon sits down with her husband Lord Carnarvon to reflect on the past year as they prepare to emerge from lockdown. It's been a period which in recent weeks has seen Highclere Castle lie dormant for one of the longest periods in its history. They also look back on how Downton Abbey has transformed their lives and swop memories of living with film crew. Now as the 'real' Downton Abbey prepares to welcome visitors again, Lord and Lady Carnarvon can start to look forward to returning to a more familiar routine.
Friendships are at the heart of Highclere Castle and 'Downton Abbey' and in this episode Lady Carnarvon welcomes a good friend to join her for tea and a chat. Anne Diamond was a pioneering presenter on breakfast television in the UK, and in more recent years a local radio broadcaster. Listen all the way through as Lady Carnarvon shares a ghost story, and reveals a 'scented' secret!
The partridge and pheasant shoot at Highclere Castle goes back to the time of the 5th Earl of Carnarvon and the tradition has carried through different head keepers and Earls of Carnarvon until today. Lady Carnarvon's guest this week is recently retired head keeper Eddie Hughes.
In this week's podcast Lady Carnarvon explores the connections Highclere has with aircraft. From hosting early aviation pioneers to the tragic wartime losses in the hills to the south of the castle. Her guest is former Concorde pilot, historian, and good friend Steve Bohill-Smith.
Pat Withers has been Highclere Castle's painter and decorator for an incredible sixty years. For twenty of those she's been working alongside Lady Carnarvon on a variety of projects to bring previously forgotten parts of the castle back to life through colour and creativity.
On a beautiful day at Highclere Castle Lady Carnarvon found a shady spot to sit down with 93-year-old Les Taylor. Les is one of Highclere's longest-serving members of staff having worked for three Earls. There's not much this former Policeman doesn't know about the comings and goings at the real life Downton Abbey!
In this second edition of Lady Carnarvon's Podcast she takes a walk, along with her dogs Stella and Freya, to the Secret Garden for a chat with Highclere Castle's Head Gardener Paul Barker. If you have a question that you'd like answered in a future edition please email podcast@highclerecastle.co.uk
Lady Carnarvon's first Podcast features her husband Geordie, the 8th Earl of Carnarvon and they talk about life during lockdown as well as giving an insight into some of the wonderful historical anecdotes of life at Highclere Castle.