Welcome to Hidden Heritage, where the rich tapestry of Great Britain's historical treasures comes to life. Geoff Heath-Taylor, a renowned historian and author, joins Lady Violet Manners in this episode as they travel through the tenacity of cultural artifacts, the beauty of historic homes, and the significance of preserving national identity. In this episode, Geoff Heath-Taylor discusses the loss of cultural artefacts during wars and revolutions, advocating for the restitution of looted goods. He also introduces the magnificent Chettle House in Dorset and the importance of historic houses in shaping culture. Moreover, they unravel the challenges faced by historic houses today, from financial hardships to the disconnect between city and country dwellers.
Key Points: 00:00:05 Introduction of Geoff Heath-Taylor and his background 00:01:31 Geoff discusses his upbringing in Africa and England 00:02:21 Explanation of Geoff's diverse interests and career as a writer 00:03:34 Discussion of how losing family land in Africa influenced Geoff's interest in heritage 00:05:14 Conversation about the beauty and inspiration of historic buildings 00:06:38 Geoff talks about his love of writing and first job at Country Life magazine 00:08:00 Introduction of Castle Ward as Geoff's first destination recommendation 00:11:08 Explanation of challenges faced by historic houses today 00:13:11 Discussion of Wentworth Woodhouse and its history 00:17:46 Conversation about the loss of country houses after World War II 00:21:14 Geoff explains his view on objective beauty in architecture 00:24:43 Discussion of the Country House podcast and its educational aims 00:27:04 Conversation about art losses during World War II and the Nazi regime 00:29:02 Introduction of Chettle House as Geoff's second destination recommendation 00:32:46 Discussion on government's role in preserving national heritage 00:41:44 Introduction of Holkham Hall as Geoff's third destination recommendation
Guest Info Geoff Heath-Taylor is a versatile professional with a background in journalism, consulting, and academia. Raised in Africa and the English countryside, he began his career as an in-house writer for *Country Life* magazine. He has contributed to numerous publications, including *The Telegraph*, *The Daily Mail*, *The Spectator*, *Tatler*, and *Vanity Fair*, and has appeared as a cultural commentator on television and podcasts.
As a consultant, Geoff advises private family offices globally on education, art, interiors, and philanthropy, and has also advised governments on policy related to education and the built environment. He lectures at universities on education, liberty, architecture, and the philosophy of beauty. Geoff holds a BA in History from the University of Exeter.
Step inside Britain’s greatest Historic Houses, gardens and family homes through HeritageXplore, your digital gateway to discovering heritage today. Visit www.heritagexplore.com
Links and Resources:
"Woman in Gold" film
Chettle House in Dorset
"Amazing Grace" film
St Giles
Lord Shaftesbury
National Trust
Country Life magazine
Holcombe Hall in Norfolk
"The Trumpet of Liberty" poem
Castle Ward in Northern Ireland
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Released:
Jul 11, 2024
Format:
Podcast episode
Titles in the series (78)
Welcome to Duchess - the podcast in which the Duchess of Rutland explores the historic homes of Great Britain, and meets the inspiring women who lead them today. Have you ever watched Bridgerton, The Crown or Downton Abbey and wondered what it's really like to be a Duchess? If so, this is the podcast for you. Stately homes are manors, palaces, and castles of great historic significance. They were built by the finest architects, adorned with the finest treasures and surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. They were homes to the most powerful families, their wealth and social pedigree shaped the world we live in today. Emma Rutland grew up far away from the world of the aristocracy, but her life changed forever when she married her husband - the 11th Duke of Rutland - and moved into Belvoir Castle. At once Emma became both a Duchess and custodian of one of Britain's most important buildings. The Duchess wanted to learn more about this world, these homes, and the other inspiring women who, just like her, work tirelessly to ensure they see tomorrow. In this podcast the Duchess will travel to breathtaking homes, learn the epic tales of their construction, meet the historic figures that walked their halls, hear chilling ghost stories and the heartbreaking tales of romance. All of this whilst getting to know the inspiring, powerful women that work to find the delicate balance between preservation and transformation. Join Emma on a very special journey. This is Duchess, the podcast.
