A Nice Cup Of Histortea

Send us a textThis Armistice Day we have chosen to mark the day by speaking about one of the reasons it is so important to look back and remember, to try and prevent history from repeating itself. Together we go through a brief overview of the lead up to and the main events of the Second World War from 1939-1945. And to bring a little hope back to the world, we end the episode with a tale of survival. To those who have given their lives for our freedom in conflicts past and present, and those who continue to fight - thank you.Support the show

Send us a textThis week as the potentially penultimate episode of Spooktober we dive into all things Werewolves. What are they? How do you become one? How do you spot one? How do you stop one? Join us as we ask these questions and many more. In this week's ridiculous death we look at what to do if you think your former miserable mayor has come back to terrorise the town as a werewolf. Hint, it involves dress-up. Music Credits:Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/kevin-macleod/hidden-pastLicense code: 6LLPEKMHAHLTPS4RSupport the show

Send us a textThis week we discuss the mother of horror science-fiction, Mary Shelley. We talk about her life, her upbringing and the fateful night when her most famous creation was born. And in this week's ridiculous death we explore the real dangers of napping near turkeys. Disclaimer: This week's episode contains mentions of suicide and incest. Listener discretion is advised. Music Credits:Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/kevin-macleod/hidden-pastLicense code: 6LLPEKMHAHLTPS4RSupport the show

Send us a textThis week we continue our Spooktober with a look at a serial killer responsible for at least 33 known murders - John Wayne Gacey, a.k.a. The Killer Clown.Disclaimer: This week's episode contains description of murder, sexual assault, paedophilia, torture and necrophilia. Listeners discretion is strongly advised. Music Credits:Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/kevin-macleod/hidden-pastLicense code: 6LLPEKMHAHLTPS4RSupport the show

Send us a textThis week we are kicking off the Spooky Month of October with a luck at mummy's curses. We take a look at famous cases, as well as possible explanations and times they transcend the sarcophagus into modern media. Stay tuned this month for more spooky content!Music credit:Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/kevin-macleod/hidden-pastLicense code: 6LLPEKMHAHLTPS4RSupport the show

Send us a textHere we are at the final of three episodes on the iconic Henry VIII. Join us as we look at the last few years of his life and his legacy. We also make a dedication this episode to another special Henry. And in this week's ridiculous death we talk about a guy who was genuinely just having a bad day!Disclaimer: This episode does have mention of SA of a minor and graphic description of an execution. Listener discretion is advised.Music credit: Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/kevin-macleod/folk-roundLicense code: YB4H6UFUDBROFSFRSupport the show

Send us a textThis week we bring you the second of three episodes on the man, the myth, the legend, Henry VIII. Tyrant or treasure, we let you decide as we bring you the facts of the events and people that influenced his life and reign and how he dealt with them. And in this week's ridiculous death we look at why prison escapes didn't always go to plan. Music credit: Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/kevin-macleod/folk-roundLicense code: YB4H6UFUDBROFSFRSupport the show

Send us a Text Message.This week we take a look back following the recent General Election in Britain at Women's fight for the right to vote equal to men, not to mention the benefits gained for men as well. And in our ridiculous death we see why dreams and reality should really be kept separate. For those who wish to abide by the trigger warning in this episode, it is safe for you to start listening again from around 16:01. As always, a huge thank you to our listeners for your support. If you have any suggestions for future episodes or just want to get in touch, you can find us on Facebook, Instagram, X and TikTok, just search "cupofhistortea", or email us through cupofhistortea@outlook.com - we also have a contact option on Buzzsprout. Credit for today's music goes to Kevin Macleod, with details below.Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/kevin-macleod/folk-roundLicense code: YB4H6UFUDBROFSFRSupport the Show.

Send us a Text Message.Hello dear listeners! We are back after a long hiatus with a return to our roots, talking about the Tudors, in particular Henry VIII. In this first of a two-parter we look at the early life and early reign of one of England, and maybe Europe's most iconic monarchs, on the anniversary of his Coronation, no less!And in this week's ridiculous death we look at what happens when you're minding your business in an English country garden. Credit for today's music goes to Kevin Macleod, with details below.Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/kevin-macleod/folk-roundLicense code: YB4H6UFUDBROFSFRSupport the Show.

After yet another impromptu hiatus, we are back with another episode of historical storytelling (and an apology for our absence). This time we discuss the story of Rapunzel. Beloved fairytale, or true story? And in this week's ridiculous death we discover why keeping a little bit of your ex-partner with you should be kept metaphorical.Support the show

This week we take a more sombre look at history, by exploring the life and writings of Anne Frank. We tell her story and that of her family, what they endured and suffered and why we need to remember them. 

Fresh (admittedly late) back from our trip to Amsterdam, we explore the dark and haunted side of that beautiful city. Join us... if you dare!

This week we look into the bloodiest battle to ever take place on English soil, ending a period of conflict within the wider Wars of the Roses. And in this week's ridiculous death we look at why figs are still funny - deathly funny...

This week we discuss the non-living legend, Julius Caesar. Who was he? What did he accomplish? What sort of legacy did he leave? We also discuss why you need to take care when juggling a pear. 

This week for a Dark Cup of Histortea we explore one of our award nominees, Bhangarh Fort - so haunted that you are banned from going at night. In our ridiculous death we look at why you should be careful around over-amorous geographical features.

This week for A Nice Cup of Histortea we're celebrating the centenary of an amazing yet contentious discovery - that of Tutankhamun's tomb. And in this week's ridiculous death we look into why opening the tomb might not have been such a good idea...

Welcome, dear listeners to the Second Annual Histortea Awards. Last year we dredged through our historical knowledge to find winners from the past for certain categories. However, this year we've done it a bit differently, as facts from history won't exactly change, but our world is and what is present now, becomes history tomorrow. So this year's awards include nominees from the last 12 months, including a couple of faces from the more distant past. Want to know who was the most influential person of 2022? Or even who was the biggest jerk? You can tune in.You can also have your say on our nominees in our polls on social media - just look for CupofHistortea and you'll find us. Let's see if you agree with our decisions or not!And we'll be back soon with season 4 of our podcast! Thank you, as always, for sticking with us listeners. You're awesome.

In a slight change to our plans, thanks to nice weather conditions, we're not able to go hunting for Black Shuck. Instead we take you through a quick paranormal investigation of Emily's home. Join us, if you dare... 

This week in our penultimate spooky season episode we look at some of the most iconic horror stories and the true stories or legends behind them.And in our ridiculous death we look at why you should, or shouldn't take a second look at that epic halloween decoration...

This week we look at a terrifying creature from the nightmares of First Nation folklore, the Wendigo. What is it, how did it come about, how can you identify one and what can you do to stop one? We discuss all this and more, including how man is once again the worst monster. And in this week's ridiculous death we find out why it is always better to take your time with bread...

Following on from last week's rather heavy episode, and keeping the flavour of Spooky Month going, we take a foray into the folklore and stories surrounding Headless Haunts. Taking a trip around the world, we explore different variations of this spectre and give some tips on what to do if you experience a few. Do you have a tale of a Headless Haunting near you? Get in touch through cupofhistortea@outlook.com or message us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or TikTok and we will give you a mention! 

Disclaimer: This week's episode contains description of child murder and torture that some listeners might find distressing. Listener discretion is advised. This week we discuss one of the earliest recorded serial killers, Gilles de Rias. Who was he, how did he achieve fame and then how did he achieve infamy? And this week's ridiculous death is a good example of why goose and laughter doesn't mix.

This week's episode comes with a disclaimer of description of violence and torture, as we look into the life and crimes of the notorious Blood Countess, Elizabeth Bathory. As always, we apologise for any mispronunciations - we are trying! And on our ridiculous death segment we look at why it is always worth double checking you're fully dressed...

This week we celebrate/commiserate the anniversary of the Battle of Bosworth field, the climactic combat that ended and era and brought England's longest civil war to a close. And on this week's ridiculous death we see why looking cool isn't always the best option when you can't see where you're going...

This week on a Nice Cup of Histortea, we discuss the Viking Age. Who were they, where did they come from and is everything we know about them true? And on this week's ridiculous death we learn the really anti-climactic way that a legend an be killed.

Disclaimer: this week's dark cup episode is the original story of Sleeping Beauty, which contains some very dark themes including sexual assault and cannibalism. Listener discretion is strongly advised. 

Pack your bags and join us on a journey to Rapa Nui to meet the Moai, statues that represent far more than we can understand, but about which we are trying to learn. Plus learn why it is always wise to check your glass before you drink...

Today we're doing a special episode to commemorate Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II reaching a record breaking 70 years on the throne. Join us as we explore the life and work of this remarkable woman. 

This week we have another dark cup episode, that is pretty dark. In the middle of the Venice Lagoon is an island soaked in blood and death... Poveglia Island. Listener discretion is advised due to some graphic descriptions

This week we discuss the literary idol that is William Shakespeare. Where did he come from? Where did he go! What happened in between? And why is it okay to go over on a waterfall but beware the troublesome tangerine...

This week we discuss the historic haunted halls of Margam Castle in Port Talbot, Wales. How did the house come to be as we see it? And what about the things we can't always see? Oh, and first person to comment on our social media - Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @cupofhistortea with "#MargamCastle" will win a copy of The Haunting of Margam Castle on DVD. There's only one copy, so it's fastest on the draw! 

This week we discuss the American Revolutionary War. What led up to it? What happened during it? What was the aftermath? What on earth were they doing to our tea? And in this week's ridiculous death we discover why going green with envy might not be good for your health...

This week we return from illness to talk about the construction, history and hauntings of one of the most famous British royal residences, Hampton Court Palace. How much of this historical residence is still part of the original construction? How many of its former residents have refused to leave? Does it have a tea room?An on our Ridiculous Death segment, we discuss why you should think twice before drinking gold. 

Happy 2022! After a short and unplanned break we are back with a bang with the First Annual Histortea Awards. Who is the longest reigning monarch? What is  the scariest urban legend? Whose survival was the most incredible, or death the most ridiculous? Have a listen and all shall be revealed!

This week, in a special wintry episode of A Nice Cup of Histortea, we invite you to wrap up warm as we bring you the story of The Snow Queen, originally written by Hans Christian Anderson. We look at a possible inspiration behind the woman herself, as well as what sort of things have been spawned by the telling of this story. Then in this week's ridiculous death we have a look at why munchies aren't always the best things to have...Thank you so much for listening to us throughout 2021, we hope we've entertained as much as educated you. We will be back early in 2022 with a very special episode - The Histortea Awards. If you can think of a historical figure, event or ridiculous historic death that deserves an award, let us know via Facebook or Instagram and you may get a mention on the show! 

This week, recorded on his birthday, we discuss the man, the myth that is Walt Disney. We look into his upbringing and the drive and determination that made him the legend he became. We also discover why you need to think twice before you kick a metal object...

This week we kick off our THIRD SEASON with the telling of the original fairytale Beauty and the Beast. We also discover why you should never hug a drunk bear...Thank you so much for seeing us through 3 seasons and over 3,500 listens. It means so much, you're all amazing! 

This week we round off our spooky Dark Month with a look at one of the most controversial hauntings in England, the Enfield Haunting. Was it a real? Was it a hoax? Was it both? You decide. Thank you, as always, for listening and Happy Halloween

This week we have a very special episode in our already special dark month because we're joined by the lads of the ManNic Podcast, Liam and Tobias. Together we learn about Vlad the Impaler, how he got that name and how the legend was born. We also take a look at some other types of vampire from around the room. For our ridiculous death we look at why a joke at dinner is fun, but could also be fatal.Want to hear more from the ManNic boys? Why not check them out at Stream The ManNic Podcast | Listen to podcast episodes online for free on SoundCloud or anywhere else you can get your podcast fix. Don't forget the two "n"s - it's very important!Disclaimer - contains some strong language and graphic descriptions of torture

This week we continue our month of spooky stories with a history mystery, the Ghost Ship. Starting with the Mary Celeste and then talking about a couple of her counterparts, Was it mutiny? Was it illness? Was it aliens? (Or mermaids, definitely could have been mermaids). And if you like pop culture, or want to know your super heroes from your action heroes? Or if you just want to listen to two best friends talking about the things they love, just like us, then pop on over to the ManNic Podcast (two Ns, very important) and listen to our buddies Liam and Tobias doing their thing!

This week on a Dark Cup of Histortea, we travel to London at the end of the 19th Century, to the terror-stalked streets of Whitechapel. Who was Jack the Ripper? More importantly, who were his victims? Join us and we will try to find out...Disclaimer - this episode contains graphic descriptions of violence, murder and sexual crimes. Listener discretion is advised.

This week we are celebrating our third birthday here at A Nice Cup of Histortea with a trip to 17th Century London and watch as it goes up in smoke.  Starting on 2nd September 1666 and lasting for four days, costing millions of pounds in damage, displacing thousands and killing six this is the conflagration that saw a King firefighting alongside his people to save the city they called home, and forever changed the face of England's Capital. And in our ridiculous death we discuss why that urge to dance needn't cost you your life. 

This week we do a special request from one of our lovely listeners, Linda, who wanted to hear the story of Beowulf, an Old English Epic Poem of man vs monster, with plenty of feasting and a dragon thrown in for good measure. Want to read a bit more about this example of Anglo-Saxon Storytelling? Have a look at the below links: https://www.bl.uk/collection-items/beowulfhttps://www.britannica.com/topic/Beowulfhttps://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/50114/beowulf-modern-english-translationhttps://www.gutenberg.org/files/16328/16328-h/16328-h.htmhttps://www.amazon.co.uk/Beowulf-Translation-Commentary-together-Sellic/dp/0007590067

This week we dive back into the darker side of history with our fourth Dark Cup of Histortea episode all about the Salem Witch Trials. Was it devilry, land disputes or just the wicked machinations of a group of vindictive and hysterical girls? And for our ridiculous death we look at why sometimes it's better to wait a little bit longer for your lobster. 

We're back after a long and unplanned stint. We're sorry for being away for so long, but to say a thank you and in honour of your sticking with us, we bring you the story of the resilience of a city and country in the face of conquest, civil war and economic blips. So pack your bags, grab your virtual passports and join us as we travel back in time over to Colombia and her capital city, the beautiful Bogata. This week's ridiculous death has a bit of a twist, so stay tuned for that...

This week we take a look at the life and work of P. L. Travers. Author, poet and the creator of everyone's favourite nanny, Mary Poppins. If you're an avid reader and want to hear more about authors, from their own words, there's a little something in there for you too. So grab a cup of tea, get comfy and let's get historical! 

Welcome to the third episode of our spin-off series A Dark Cup of Histortea. This week we talk about everyone's favourite demon doggo - Black Shuck. Known by many other names and in many other guises around the world, we take you on a whistle-stop tour of some of his more famous myths. So grab a drink and a blanket, turn the lights on and let's get Dark. Disclaimer - we apologise for any dodgy pronunciations, please feel free to let us know if we've got it wrong, it's the only way we can improve!Special mention this week to the Spooky Movie Project - into your horror films and want to hear more about them, or not sure how to tell your Freddie from your Jason? Have a listen to the Spooky Movie Project, available in most places where you can get your podcasts.

This is a very special and poignant episode. In this week's episode we discuss the life and work of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. In light of his recent passing, we realised just how little we knew about it, so we set about rectifying this and we would like to pass this knowledge on. We know he wasn't to everyone's taste, but if you are intrigued please join us on this journey of exploration. We venture with respect, honesty and no small amount of thanks into the life of a frankly extraordinary gentleman.

This week on A Nice Cup of Histortea we talk about the origins of the story The Little Mermaid. So grab a drink and get comfortable for the story from Hans Christian Andersen. Our ridiculous death this week looks into why swallowing knives might not make you the sharpest person... Got an idea for an episode, or just want to say hi? Email us at cupofhistortea@outlook.com or search Cup of Histortea on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram

Disclaimer - this week's episode contains some graphic descriptions of death. Join us this week as we talk about the notorious eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79AD/CE that destroyed the cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum. We take a look at the different types of volcanic eruption and walk you through step by step what happened in that fateful 24 hours. For our ridiculous death we stay in Pompeii and see possibly the unluckiest person in history... Maybe.https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p01706fw/clips - here is the programme referenced in this episode for anyone interested in the experiment mentioned.  

Welcome back to a second episode of A Dark Cup of Histortea! Our first spooky episode, In High Spirits, is now our most listened to episode of all time, so we know that you guys like the dark stuff as much as we do. In honour of it being Valentine's Day when we're releasing this, we're taking a look at the type of ghost known as the Lady In Red. Usually a woman jilted or murdered by her lover, some can also be the ghosts of prostitutes. We take a look at the legend itself, and give you some famous examples from around the world. Got a story of your own about a Lady In Red? Why not let us know on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram? Or if you've got a request for a future episode, either historical or spooky!