UK comedian The Honourable Tom Houghton takes us inside Britain’s stately homes, castles and country estates to hear about their local histories, the scandals, the mysteries and occasionally the odd ghost that makes up the fabric of what they are. These are the tales you won’t hear in the guidebook.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode, we're revisiting Tom's old gaff... The Tower of London. Tom lived there for six years and it was pretty marvelous actually. We've all been feeling pretty homesick and that's why we're bringing you part two of his chat with (at the time of recording) the current resident, Meghan Clawson. As well as being Queen of the Castle, Meghan is also a novelist and TikTok star, and she owns a very cute dog called Ethel. Open the gates! We're coming home.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Today we are going to explore the rich and whimsical history of heaver Castle in Kent, Engand. Hever Castle has a rich and varied history, from its origins as a country house in the thirteenth century to its transformation into a grand mansion in the twentieth century. Amongst its notable residents was the Boleyn family, who lived at Hever Castle in the Sixteenth Century and whose daughter Anne became the second wife of King Henry VIII. (She'll be playing a big part in this story.) Joining us as our expert is Dr Amy Boyington, as we delve into the castle's past and discover the stories of the people who lived and worked there, the events that shaped its history, and the unique features that make heaver Castle one of England's most beloved historic parks...See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Eleanor Campbell, Duchess of ArgyllSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
“Beware of making deals with the devil, for he will always find a way to collect his debts.” Someone should have told that to Oliver Cromwell because this week we're back at The Commandary with Megan and Alice to hear about the seven years of prosperity he was granted in return for his soul...See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We're back at Ripley Castle, home to the Ingilby family for the last seven hundred years. Last time we heard about a whole host of Ingilby's. There was William, Jarl and Henry, Sir, William Francis and his brother David, Sir Thomas... the list goes on. And speaking of Sir Thomas, we are in the very privileged position of actually being able to talk to a live, living Ingilby! Sir Thomas Ingilby, the sixth Baronet, joining us on the podcast today.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Holkham Hall returns this week to discuss some of the notable women that have called Holkham home over the years. Our two experts this week are collections coordinator Katherine Hardwick & Holkham Archivist Lucy Purvis. Enjoy!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Welcome back to the Midlands where we're returning to Harvington Hall, famous for having the most priest holes in England and filling us in on those holes, is a man who spent a lot of time in them programs, Manager Pill Downing. Last time we heard about evil priest hunter and priest torturer Richard Topcliffe, but there's one very important person we yet to talk about: Nicholas Owen aka The Elusvie IllusionistSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Today we're back at Versailles which means one thing: "Qu'ils mangent de la brioche!" and with that delicious cake we'll be taking a look at one of Bad Manors most controversial figures Marie Antoinette. Joining us again is the wonderful Birgit Marie.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode, we're back in Essex at England's oldest town, Colchester, and once again Tom has been imprisoned at Colchester Castle with two familiars, Ben and Bianca. Last time, Ben and Bianca educated us on the castle's history, architecture, why there's a tree growing on the roof, and Colchester's Roman history. But let's be honest... We want to talk about witches!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What do the Holy Grail, The Knights Templar and aliens all have in common? Answer? They all may be connected with Rosslyn Chapel, a fifteenth century chapel just down the road from Edinburgh. Among other things, it's famous for appearing in the best selling book The Da Vinci Code. Here to help me unpick the mysteries is Chapel Director Ian Gardner.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Oscar winning film editor Thelma shoe Maker once said: "Editing is really like plumbing. A good deal of the time, you put two things together and the current runs through it." It's a lovely quote that captures the magic and the craft of editing... Compare that to my producer Chris who once said editing's are pain in the ass. You can tell he hasn't won any Oscars (yet) but this collection of some our of favourite Bad Manors mini stories might change all that! Enjoy...See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On today's episode, we're at Golden Grove estate in Wales. Yes, that's Wales, so naturally there's going to be a lot of discussion about drinking. Joining us is Terry Norman, secretary of the Local History Society. Terry is going to be telling us about three Earls, one pirate and a lot of Jaguar E types. How does this all link to the Golden Grove Estate you ask? Listen to find out...See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dear Diary. Today, I had the displeasure of visiting Holkham Hall, a rather ghastly eighteenth century country house in Norfolk. I found the place to be particularly exuberant with its Palladian architecture and its opulent interior. I mean, a room full of statues is hardly becoming and as for the staff, well for starters. I was met by a woman who described herself vastly. She said her name was Catherine, the collection's coordinator at Holkham and she was there to be our guide on this weeks episode of Bad Mannors.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Scotland, home of the Brave Hearts, but better yet, and certainly better than that joke. It's home to a lot of castles, so many we couldn't invade all of them in one episode, which is why this is part two of our Scottish Castle's Special. And if you were here for our Burns Night episode you'll already be familiar with Kildrummy Castle and Sterling Castle. On this episode, we're heading further south to Edinburgh Castle and further still to the borders. Thanks to my guest, this episode also provides me with a great opportunity to brush up on my Scottish insults! So buckle up, yer wee fuck bumpers 'cos we're off to Edinburgh! Todays guest is Eleanor Morton, who's a fellow stand up comedian and also a self confessed history nerd and makes TikTok videos as Craig the unenthused tour guide.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sláinte Mhath! Welcome to this Burns Night special where we're traveling to the Northern Highlands to celebrate the special day with some Scottish Castles...See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Here's a question for you, dear listener, Do you feel lucky? Punk? Punk Wow? Sorry about the punk thing and the dodgy accent. The reason I ask is because today's episode explores luck, both good and bad, although mostly bad. Muncaster Castle in Cumbria is the home to the Pennington family and the home of Tom Foolery. Court Jesters - this episode is for you!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We're back at Alnwick to discuss a medieval bloodsucker who terrorised Alnwick. This isn't Twilight we're talking the real deal. Plus, Tom answers some ancient riddles.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tom & producer Chris sit down by the fire to answer some listener questions. So sit back, relax, eat a mince pie and enjoy the ride.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Holme Pierrepont Hall is home to some impressive family heritage. To talk us through his family history is Robert Brackenbury! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We're back Tutbury Castle with dream team Dr. Gareth Williams & Lesley Smith. This time we're talking about the biggest hoard of ancient coins ever found in the UK and medieval contraception. Condoms, chastity belts and contraceptive limes?! That's right you heard us right the first time. It's a seriously fruity episode so strap on and strap in.Links Follow Bad Manors on InstagramFollow Tom on Instagram and TikTokTake a look at Tutbury Castle See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week we're at Ripley Castle with the current Lord of the Manor, Sir Thomas Ingilby. This house has been in the family for over 700 years which means it's had some serious family fueds. Join us as we learn all about them and why there are boars everywhere... Follow Bad Manors on InstagramFollow Tom on Instagram and TikTokFollow Ripley Castle Credits Produced by Atomized Studios for iHeartRadioHost: Tom HoughtonProducers: Willem Olenski, Rebecca Rappaport & Chris AttawayExecutive Producers: Faye Stewart & Zad RogersProduction Manager: Kaitlin ParamorProduction Coordinator: Bella SaliniSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week on Bad Manors podcast we're at The Commandery in Worcestershire! We'll be talking about St. Wulfstan: the Wolverine of Worcestershire... trying saying that 3 times in a row! To help guide us through this epic tale of scandal, beheading and healing is our local expert, Megan Keary. Follow Bad Manors on InstagramFollow Tom on Instagram and TikTokFollow The Commandery Credits Produced by Atomized Studios for iHeartRadioHost: Tom HoughtonProducers: Willem Olenski, Rebecca Rappaport & Chris AttawayExecutive Producers: Faye Stewart & Zad RogersProduction Manager: Kaitlin ParamorProduction Coordinator: Bella SaliniSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week we're joined by “The UK's go-to ghost guy” Danny Robins from the Uncanny podcast! As a professional poltergeist podcaster Danny is here to give Tom a masterclass in paranormal investigation.LinksFollow Bad Manors on InstagramFollow Tom on Instagram and TikTokFollow Danny Robins on InstagramListen to Uncanny podcast Credits Produced by Atomized Studios for iHeartRadioHost: Tom HoughtonProducers: Willem Olenski, Rebecca Rappaport & Chris AttawayExecutive Producers: Faye Stewart & Zad RogersProduction Manager: Kaitlin ParamorProduction Coordinator: Bella SaliniSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Today we're at Muncaster Castle to talk to current heir to the throne, Ewan Frost-Pennington. He tells us what it's like to inherit a castle, bringing drag queens to Cumbria and we meet the current Fool in residence, Ian. LinksFollow Bad Manors on InstagramFollow Tom on Instagram and TikTokTake a look at Muncaster Castle Credits Produced by Atomized Studios for iHeartRadioHost: Tom HoughtonProducers: Willem Olenski, Rebecca Rappaport & Chris AttawayExecutive Producers: Faye Stewart & Zad RogersProduction Manager: Kaitlin ParamorProduction Coordinator: Bella SaliniSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode, we're back at Bletchley Park, the secret base of the Code Breakers of World War Two. Tom sits down with Erica & Dr. Thomas to unpack a man often associated with codebreaking, Alan Turing, to find out the truth, the fiction and the legacy of one of Bletchley's most famous names. LinksHere's an deep dive video into the Enigma Machine with Erica Follow Bad Manors on InstagramFollow Tom on Instagram and TikTokTake a look at Bletchley Park Credits Produced by Atomized Studios for iHeartRadioHost: Tom HoughtonProducers: Willem Olenski, Rebecca Rappaport & Chris AttawayExecutive Producers: Faye Stewart & Zad RogersProduction Manager: Kaitlin ParamorProduction Coordinator: Bella SaliniSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, we'll be saying Au Revoir to our usual British buildings as we take a trip across the channel to see our French neighbours and delve into the rich and captivating history of the Palace of Versailles and the host of filthy French men who lived there. Joining us as our tour guide is none other than Birgit Marie! LinksFollow Bad Manors on InstagramFollow Tom on Instagram and TikTokFollow Birgit on Instagram and TikTok Credits Produced by Atomized Studios for iHeartRadioHost: Tom HoughtonProducers: Willem Olenski, Rebecca Rappaport & Chris AttawayExecutive Producers: Faye Stewart & Zad RogersProduction Manager: Kaitlin ParamorProduction Coordinator: Bella SaliniContactFor any podcast enquires please contact: willem.olenski@atomizedstudios.tvSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this special bumper episode Tom sits down with producers Bex and Chris to hear some of the spookiest tales from the season so far... Plus, we hear some listener stories. LinksFollow Bad Manors on InstagramFollow Tom on Instagram and TikTok Credits Produced by Atomized Studios for iHeartRadioHost: Tom HoughtonProducers: Willem Olenski, Rebecca Rappaport & Chris AttawayExecutive Producers: Faye Stewart & Zad RogersProduction Manager: Kaitlin ParamorProduction Coordinator: Bella SaliniContactFor any podcast enquires please contact: willem.olenski@atomizedstudios.tvSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Today we're re-visiting Oakley Court, a seriously bad manor on the banks of the River Thames. Last time we were there we explored the house and it's hauntings, the tragic deaths of the two boys who lived there and the ridiculously erry Room 110... This week I'm Joined again by Oakley Court expert and friend of the podcast - Jake Roache! You might remember him from our first Episode on Oakley Court. Jake used to work at the house and During his time there he became fascinated with it's history and wrote a book about it. Oakley Court has a pretty famous past on the big screen, most famously being the set for the Rocky Horror Picture show but there's so much more to this house yet to explore. Jake's joining us today to tell us more about one of histories most filmed manors... LinksCheck out Jake's book, The story of Oakley Court hereFollow Bad Manors on InstagramFollow Tom on Instagram and TikTokFollow Jake on Twitter Credits Produced by Atomized Studios for iHeartRadioHost: Tom HoughtonProducers: Willem Olenski, Rebecca Rappaport & Chris AttawayExecutive Producers: Faye Stewart & Zad RogersProduction Manager: Kaitlin ParamorProduction Coordinator: Bella SaliniContactFor any podcast enquires please contact: willem.olenski@atomizedstudios.tvSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Today we're taking a visit to Blenhiem Palace, a magnificent country house located in Oxfordshire, England. It was built as a gift for John Churchill, first Duke of Marlborough, from Queen Anne and the British Nation, in recognition of his victory at the Battle of Blenheim in 1704, during the War of Spanish succession. In this episode we learn why Blenheim Palace took two decades to complete, how the queen and her bestie fell out, and (most importantly) how to steal a toilet! Follow Amy on Instagram and TikTok and learn more about her work here Stay up to date with all things Bad Manors on Instagram and follow Tom on Instagram and TIkTok Mind your manors! Produced by Atomized Studios for iHeart Podcasts Executive Proucer: Faye Stewart Producers: Rebecca Rappaport, Willem Olenski, and Chris Attaway Production Manager: Kaitlin Paramor Production Coordinator: Bella SaliniSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Today we're in the oldest recorded town in England, Colchester! It's here, in 1076 that William the Conqueror plundered the local Roman architecture to build the first and largest of his great keeps, Colchester Castle. We're here to learn about the castle's history as a county gaol, it's affiliation with witch hunting, and the origins of fake news... Joining us for the time behind bars are our two fantastic guests - Ben & Biancha! LinksFollow Bad Manors on InstagramFollow Tom on Instagram and TikTokGo and visit Colchester Castle Take a look at Sensual Sorcery on Instagram & Facebook Ben & Biancha have two events coming up together at Colchester Castle: Wicked Spirit Legacy Event - Past and Present Witchcraft (27/10/23)Facebook EventTicket Info An Evening of Insight Event (31/10/23)Ticket InfoFacebook Event Credits Produced by Atomized Studios for iHeartRadioHost: Tom HoughtonProducers: Willem Olenski, Rebecca Rappaport & Chris AttawayExecutive Producers: Faye Stewart & Zad RogersProduction Manager: Kaitlin ParamorProduction Coordinator: Bella SaliniSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode we're in Alnwick Castle! The place where Harry Potter learnt Quidditch, the Percy family (not the pigs) lived, and where Tom and his friends stripped naked and got arrested. Safe it say it's a place that has seen some things! To show us around is our lovely host, Daniel Watkins. Join us for a romp through it's history but just promise to keep your kit on. LinksFollow Bad Manors on InstagramFollow Tom on Instagram and TikTokTake a look at Alnwick Castle Credits Produced by Atomized Studios for iHeartRadioHost: Tom HoughtonProducers: Willem Olenski, Rebecca Rappaport & Chris AttawayExecutive Producers: Faye Stewart & Zad RogersProduction Manager: Kaitlin ParamorProduction Coordinator: Bella SaliniSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, we're venturing to Berkeley Castle, an eleventh century medieval fortress to walk through the Its rich history which spans nearly a thousand years. A lot longer than King Edward II managed to last, as in 1327 he fell victim within its walls to one of the most brutal murders of any monarch throughout history... This place is decked out with an assortment of trip steps, arrow slits, murder holes, enormous bar doors and port colossus that would give even the kid from home alone at run for his money. LinksFollow Bad Manors on InstagramFollow Tom on Instagram and TikTokTake a look at Berkeley Castle Credits Produced by Atomized Studios for iHeartRadioHost: Tom HoughtonProducers: Willem Olenski, Rebecca Rappaport & Chris AttawayExecutive Producers: Faye Stewart & Zad RogersProduction Manager: Kaitlin ParamorProduction Coordinator: Bella SaliniSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week we're descending into hell. A place where politicians and people in positions of power get together to perform the most sorted and disgusting rituals that involve sex and treating women with little to no respect. No, it's not Westminster, it's West Wickham and we're at the Hellfire Caves, a network of 18th century sex tunnels built for sir Francis Dashwood and his horny mates. In part one, we heard about the birth of the Hellfire Club, sexy AGM meetings and hearts being stolen (quite literally). Today we're crossing the River Styx and into Hell itself... LinksFollow Bad Manors on InstagramFollow Tom on Instagram and TikTokTake a look at The Hellfire Caves Credits Produced by Atomized Studios for iHeartRadioHost: Tom HoughtonProducers: Willem Olenski, Rebecca Rappaport & Chris AttawayExecutive Producers: Faye Stewart & Zad RogersProduction Manager: Kaitlin ParamorProduction Coordinator: Bella SaliniSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Today, we're in hell sort of more specifically where at west Wickham park at the Southern edge of the Chilton Hills and we're visiting the Hellfire Caves home to the Hellfire Club. I know what you're thinking. 'Oh, cool! The Dungeons and Dragons club from Stranger Things.' Not quite... The Hellfire Caves were excavated in 1748 for Sir Francis Dashwood well-known prankster and Libertine who was later appointed chancellor of the Exchequer. Uh, politician known for his drinking and womanizing. Surely not. So, what did he want with a network of caves 200 meters underneath his home. That's where we venture into the realm of rumour and hearsay. Due to lack of documentation, no one can either confirm or deny it, but this podcast is all about scandal, rumour and gossip. So I'll just say it. It was a satanic sex club! My guide for the day is Willow who'll be taking us down into the depths of hell, buckle up! LinksFollow Bad Manors on InstagramFollow Tom on Instagram and TikTokTake a look at The Hellfire Caves Credits Produced by Atomized Studios for iHeartRadioHost: Tom HoughtonProducers: Willem Olenski, Rebecca Rappaport & Chris AttawayExecutive Producers: Faye Stewart & Zad RogersProduction Manager: Kaitlin ParamorProduction Coordinator: Bella SaliniSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On today's episode we're at Samlesbery Hall, just outside of Preston in Lancashire, and we're going on a witch hunt. The places are turbulent history with murder, betrayal, and wild accusations of women making pacts with the devil...LinksFollow Bad Manors on InstagramFollow Tom on Instagram and TikTokTake a look at Samlesbury Hall Credits Produced by Atomized Studios for iHeartRadioHost: Tom HoughtonProducers: Willem Olenski, Rebecca Rappaport & Chris AttawayExecutive Producers: Faye Stewart & Zad RogersProduction Manager: Kaitlin ParamorProduction Coordinator: Bella SaliniSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On today's episode, we'll be stepping inside the walls of Harvington Hall, a historic house in the heart of England. Harvington Hall has preserved its rich heritage for over 400 years and played a significant role in the shaping oh in shaping and played a significant, and played a significant role in shaping the political and religious landscape of the England we know today. It's also riddled with the holies set of holes a house could ask for as the hall boasts the foot as the hall boasts. As the hall boasts the finest collection of priest hides in the country. These are secret spaces dotted around the building that in the 16th century were used to conceal an in need matter of. These are secret spaces dotted around the building that in the 16th century were used to conceal an in need man of God from being caught and prosecuted under the reign of Elizabeth the First. Links Follow Bad Manors on InstagramFollow Tom on Instagram and TikTokTake a look at Harvington Hall Credits Produced by Atomized Studios for iHeartRadioHost: Tom HoughtonProducers: Willem Olenski, Rebecca Rappaport & Chris AttawayExecutive Producers: Faye Stewart & Zad RogersProduction Manager: Kaitlin ParamorProduction Coordinator: Bella SaliniSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode, I'm on a top secret mission at Bletchley Park, the secret base of the Code Breakers of World War Two. It's here that Head of the S.I.S. Sir Admiral Hugh Sinclair, quietly recruited the country's brightest and best mathematicians, puzzle solvers, and service professionals to develop an intelligence gathering code, breaking crack force. Join me, Erica & Dr. Thomas as I attempt to break some code and change the course of history forever... or just figure out what I drunkenly texted the family WhatsApp last Christmas. Tom will be performing his new work in progress all month at Edinburgh Festival. Catch the show everyday at 7pm at the Laughing Horse at The Counting House (Aug 7-27).Ticket info here.LinksHere's an deep dive video into the Enigma Machine with Erica Follow Bad Manors on InstagramFollow Tom on Instagram and TikTokTake a look at Bletchley Park Credits Produced by Atomized Studios for iHeartRadioHost: Tom HoughtonProducers: Willem Olenski, Rebecca Rappaport & Chris AttawayExecutive Producers: Faye Stewart & Zad RogersProduction Manager: Kaitlin ParamorProduction Coordinator: Bella SaliniSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On today's episode, we are going to Tutbury Castle, where we're planning on getting sick, spooky, and a little bit sexy.It's where Mary, Queen of Scots, was held for the last few years of her life until they lopped her head off and has been on the frontline of English fighting for hundreds of years having been destroyed and rebuilt countless times. Today's expert guests are Lesley Smith & Gareth Williams, Curator & Director of Research at Tutbury Castle. Strap in - it's a hell of a ride.Tom will be performing his new work in progress all month at Edinburgh Festival. Catch the show everyday at 7pm at the Laughing Horse at The Counting House (Aug 7-27).Ticket info here.Links Follow Bad Manors on InstagramFollow Tom on Instagram and TikTokTake a look at Tutbury Castle Credits Produced by Atomized Studios for iHeartRadioHost: Tom HoughtonProducers: Willem Olenski, Rebecca Rappaport & Chris AttawayExecutive Producers: Faye Stewart & Zad RogersProduction Manager: Kaitlin ParamorProduction Coordinator: Bella SaliniSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Inveraray Castle is nestled on the banks of Loch Fyne (actual lock, not the seafood restaurant chain) you might recognise it as the fictional Duneagle Castle from the Downton Abbey 2012 Christmas special but there's more to this place than Maggie Smith drinking cups of tea on expensive sofas. The castle also played host to one of the most sorted British scandals in the 20th century.... Today we're joined by Eleanor Campbell, the Duchess of Argyll, to talk beheadings, tartan & the clashing of clans.Tom will be performing his new work in progress all month at Edinburgh Festival. Catch the show everyday at 7pm at the Laughing Horse @ The Counting House (Aug 7-27).Info: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/tom-houghton-work-in-progressLinks Follow Bad Manors on InstagramFollow Tom on Instagram and TikTokTake a look at Inveraray Castle Credits Produced by Atomized Studios for iHeartRadioHost: Tom HoughtonProducers: Willem Olenski, Rebecca Rappaport & Chris AttawayExecutive Producers: Faye Stewart & Zad RogersProduction Manager: Kaitlin ParamorProduction Coordinator: Bella SaliniSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In case you missed the last episode, Chillingham Castle in Northumberland was home to a lot of posh people. But more interestingly, it's now home to a load of ghosts. Not sure how posh the ghosts are, but we're about to find out because on this episode we are going on a ghost hunt in the UK's most haunted home... wish me luck!TRIGGER WARNING - This episode contains stories about torture & child mortalities.Links Follow Bad Manors on InstagramFollow Tom on Instagram and TikTok Credits Produced by Atomized Studios for iHeartRadioHost: Tom HoughtonProducers: Willem Olenski, Rebecca Rappaport & Chris AttawayExecutive Producers: Faye Stewart & Zad RogersProduction Manager: Kaitlin ParamorProduction Coordinator: Bella SaliniContactFor any podcast enquires please contact: willem.olenski@atomizedstudios.tvSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.