About this episode
Step inside British history with Hidden Heritage, the podcast that uncovers the stories behind the nation's most beloved destinations. Join host Lady Violet Manners, as she delves into the architectural wonders, family histories, and cultural gems that make up the fabric of British heritage.In this episode, architect and historian John Goodall shares his passion for ancestral connections in old buildings and the physical expression of this in churches. As he delves into the fascinating archives at Belvoir and unravels the remarkable story of a divided estate, listeners will discover the intricate human stories behind historic places.Tune in to uncover:
The importance of experiencing historic places firsthand, and the significance of parish churches in understanding historical alterations.
Insights and stories about the preservation and future of historic sites and buildings, shed light on the delicate balance between preservation and allowing change.
The pleasures of British life, the impact of visiting historical places, and the cultural significance of heritage—from ancestral power to the unearthing of hidden treasures—.
Uncover the hidden treasures of British heritage with Hidden Heritage, where culture and history come to life.Key Points:00:00:05 Introduction of John Goodall and his background00:01:35 John describes his role as architecture editor at Country Life00:03:14 Origins of John's passion for architecture and heritage00:05:04 John's early experiences writing for Country Life00:06:47 Importance of visiting and experiencing historic places in person 00:08:21 Discussion of John's interest in mediaeval history00:10:17 Description of John's doctoral research on Ewelm almshouse00:15:03 John's first recommended destination: Durham00:21:06 Challenges facing historic buildings and spaces00:24:43 Impact of tax policies on preservation of heritage sites00:32:21 John's second recommended destination: Madresfield00:37:44 Discussion of British attitudes towards mediaeval history00:41:13 Importance of preserving historic sites for future generations00:45:51 Ongoing challenges related to VAT and heritage preservation00:51:57 John's third recommended destination: Belvoir Castle00:59:02 Tip for visitors to explore parish churches associated with historic housesGuest InfoJohn Goodall is an esteemed English historian and author, currently serving as the Architectural Editor of Country Life magazine. In this role, he is responsible for writing and commissioning the celebrated series of architectural features published weekly in the magazine.John had a diverse upbringing because he spent his childhood in Kenya, Germany, India, and Yorkshire. His professional career began with English Heritage, where he worked as a researcher and histori
