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

• Thornbury Castle Hotel
• Thornbury Castle History

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

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

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

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

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

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