Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcast

Today, I welcomed author Alex Norman to the podcast to talk about his book on De Havilland’s Moth and the thrilling world of aviation in the 1920s and 30s, a period with such wonderful links to Highclere. Alex shared his own family’s connections to early flying, including his grandfather’s aircraft and involvement in the London Aeroplane Club and explained how Geoffrey de Havilland’s ingenuity helped by Frank Halford’s lightweight Cirrus engine made the DH60 Moth a breakthrough for private pilots. We explored how government-subsidised flying clubs, adventurous women and men and the freedom of the skies fuelled record-breaking journeys, from Lady Bailey and Amy Johnson to the Aga Khan Trophy winner Aspy Engineer. We ended with Alex’s dream dance partner: the remarkable aviator Beryl Markham.00:56 The de Havilland Family Connection04:33 Building the First Aeroplane05:05 Post-War Aviation & The Birth of the Moth11:35 The Private Flying Movement & Aeroplane Clubs14:47 Women in Aviation & Record-Breaking Adventures16:47 The Aga Khan Trophy & Aspi Engineer21:03 The de Havilland Legacy & The Mosquito21:59 Dream Party Guest: Beryl MarkhamYou can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/New episodes are published on the first day of every month. 

31/07/2026 • 24:33

I’m delighted to welcome author and explorer Levison Wood to Highclere, where we talk about my great love; trees and his book, The Great Tree Story: how forests have shaped our world. Levison shares how studying the Grand Tour at university inspired his lifelong passion for travel and storytelling, from hitchhiking across Europe and Central Asia to serving as an officer in the Parachute Regiment and deploying to Afghanistan. He recalls founding a production company and undertaking extraordinary long-distance walks, including nine months walking the White Nile from its farthest source to the Mediterranean, followed by the length of the Himalayas and other epic routes. We explore what drew him to write about trees, especially an experience with the Asháninka in the Amazon and we discuss ancient yews, cedars, redwoods, Highclere’s planting of 22,000 trees and his plans to adapt The Great Tree Story into a feature documentary.01:05 Grand Tour Roots03:26 Modern Travel Risks04:56 Army Years and Afghanistan05:49 From Soldier to Storyteller07:31 Walking the Nile09:06 More Epic Expeditions10:33 Planning and Logistics12:31 Highclere Explorer Heritage14:30 Why Trees Matter17:32 Ancient Trees and Estate Planting19:42 Redwoods and Tree Lore23:29 Trees in Culture and Craft24:33 Green Man and Next FilmYou can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/New episodes are published on the first day of every month. 

30/06/2026 • 28:33

I welcome Dutch historian Rutger Bregman to the podcast after first messaging him on Instagram and we talk about what I took from his book Humankind and my own wish to bring people together to remember friendship and kindness. Rutger reflects on Dutch directness and equality shaped by living with water, from the 1953 flood to the Delta Works, and shares why he writes for a general audience about big questions of human nature. We discuss his challenge to the “veneer theory” and his belief in “survival of the friendlies,” alongside a real shipwreck story near Tonga where six boys survived 15 months through cooperation. Our conversation turns to bullying, family and attachment, the Second World War and Rutger’s research for Moral Ambition on how resistance spreads simply by asking others to help.01:10 Dutch Culture and Directness04:01 Water Engineering and Delta Works05:41 Early Civilizations and Conflict06:58 Why Bregman Writes Big History08:12 Debunking Human Nature Myths10:07 Cooperation at Highclere Today12:49 Tempest and Amoral People13:55 Real Lord of the Flies Story19:00 Bullying Attachment and Family21:41 Victorian Fathers Revisited22:40 Reform Politics And Women23:28 Why Study War24:04 Resistance Myth Debunked25:24 Heroes Are Asked27:29 Unconventional Organizers30:25 Kindness After Loss32:19 Kindness Is Contagious35:03 Lessons From Animals36:18 Veneer Theory And Dickens37:59 British IndirectnessYou can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/New episodes are published on the first day of every month. 

01/06/2026 • 41:56

I’m delighted to welcome historical novelist Caroline Montague to the castle, where we talk about how writing offers a refuge from everyday life and how she protects her creative time in her office with her dogs. Caroline shares the remarkable history of Burnt Norton, its links to T.S. Eliot’s “Four Quartets,” and the dramatic tale of Sir William Kite, whose scandal, bankruptcy, and death by fire helped give the house its name, alongside stories of the “white lady” said to haunt the top floor. We discuss her path from law and interior design to writing, her planning process shaped by a firm agent, shifting titles and covers, and her current rewrite of a book about a famous royal swap. We also chat about spaniels, horses and the comfort animals bring.00:49 Writing Routine and Space01:35 Career Path to Author02:41 Burnt Norton and TS Eliot04:42 William Kite House Tragedy07:02 Ghost Stories White Lady09:51 House History and Hauntings11:25 Plotting Process and Ideas13:16 Deadlines Output and Titles15:18 Rewriting The Hook16:08 Jigsaw Writing Method17:17 Past Healing Present18:17 Woods And Creativity18:35 Spaniel Life And Social Media19:59 Dressage Highs And Loss21:09 New Horse Gio22:33 Italy And Spanish Stallions25:08 Books Animals And ImaginationYou can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/New episodes are published on the first day of every month. 

01/05/2026 • 26:43

 I’m delighted to welcome the novelist Emily Howes to the castle to talk about her book The Painter’s Daughters, inspired by Gainsborough’s portraits of his two girls and the striking shift from their lively childhood images to a stiffer, unhappier adulthood. Emily shares how she researched 18th-century Bath, its muddy, smelly, party-like medical culture, through visits and sources such as James Hamilton’s biography, Letters from Bath, and books on travel, while noting how little survives from the daughters’ own voices. We discuss Molly’s documented illness and Emily’s discovery of a possible porphyria link to the Prince of Wales, as well as Gainsborough’s finances, his wife’s hidden savings, and the sisters’ relationship, which Emily likens to Downton Abbey’s sister dynamics. Emily also previews her next novel, Mrs Dickens, exploring Catherine Dickens’s erasure after Dickens left her for Ellen Turner and the fate of their children.00:46 Why the Daughters03:20 Bath After Covid05:57 Money and Marriage08:18 Research and Sources09:27 Molly Illness Mystery12:21 Sisters and Downton16:05 Blue Boy and Imagination17:25 Gainsborough at Highclere22:23 Next Book Mrs Dickens24:35 Dickens Family Fallout27:53 Catherine After SeparationYou can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/New episodes are published on the first day of every month. 

31/03/2026 • 30:07

In this episode from Highclere Castle, I sit down with Nick Hopton to talk about his book, "Marma Mia," which begins as the story of buying and restoring a holiday house in an unspoiled part of Tuscany, the Maremma and becomes a wider family and personal journey. Nick shares how reading "A Year in Provence" during COVID while he was British Ambassador to Libya helped inspire him to write a feel-good book that encourages readers to discover lesser-known regions. We discuss his Foreign Office career and his approach to languages, including learning Arabic across postings such as Morocco, Yemen, Qatar and Libya, along with French, Italian, Spanish, some German, and some Farsi ahead of becoming ambassador to Iran after the 2015 nuclear deal and the reopening of the British embassy. Nick explains how a friend’s suggestion to look beyond Chianti led serendipitously to the first house they viewed and ultimately boughtalongside the realities of renovating abroad: high costs, practical challenges, and the highs and lows of making a place work for family life. We also talk about his unexpected love of landscaping and working with a skilled digger operator he calls “Michelangelo,” the region’s food, wine, local olive oil and its strong Tuscan accent. Nick recounts a memorable moment when a friend arrived with an armed escort and the town’s mayor turned out to greet them, and he updates me on ongoing projects, including drilling a 97-meter well to reach a fresh aquifer. Looking ahead, Nick describes writing best in the relative isolation of the Italian house and shares his interest in writing more broadly about the Mediterranean, linked to his role creating a new program at the University of Cambridge Centre for Geopolitics. We touch on the Napoleonic history of the area, including the principality of Piombino and Lucca and Napoleon’s sister Elisa and end with a playful question about a dream dance guest Nick chooses Dante’s Beatrice, reflecting his early love of Dante’s poetry and its lifelong influence.00:00 Meet Nick Hopton & the book ‘Marma Mia’ (restoring a house in Italy)00:50 Inspired by ‘A Year in Provence’: writing a feel-good travel memoir during COVID01:59 Diplomatic life & learning languages: Arabic, French, Italian (and more)04:26 Why you should speak the local language (even with bad grammar)05:17 Falling for Tuscany’s Maremma: the serendipitous house-buying story07:42 Renovation reality: highs, lows, and why the Maremma stays authentic08:44 Landscaping obsession: diggers, Kubotas, and ‘Michelangelo’ the operator11:05 Food, wine & dialect: tomatoes, olive oil, and the Tuscan accent12:49 Small-town surprises: the ambassador friend visit and the mayor’s welcome13:43 The work never ends: is the villa project ever really finished?14:01 Digging a 97m Well & the Never-Ending House Project14:27 What’s Next After the Book: A Wider Mediterranean Focus14:58 Seeing the Mediterranean Holistically (Cambridge Geopolitics & Trade Routes)16:26 Duff Cooper, John Julius Norwich & Highclere’s Colorful Guests17:20 Writing Habits: Tuscany, Isolation, Rhythm & Beating Procrastination18:37 Italy, Maremma & Napoleonic History: Elisa and the Principality of Piombino and Lucca20:30 Diplomatic Postings & Reopening the UK Embassy in Iran (2015)23:09 Iran Today: Regime Weakness, Protests, and a Hope to Visit the Cradle of Civilization24:21 Highclere’s Library, the Book Club, and a Shared Love of Italy25:27 Finale: The Summer Dance Fantasy Guest—Dante, Beatrice & Vita NovaYou can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/New episodes are published on the first day of every month. 

01/03/2026 • 27:46

Welcome to my podcast! In this special episode, I am thrilled to welcome Colin Thackery, a Chelsea Pensioner and Britain's Got Talent winner, who has an extraordinary life story to share. Colin talks about his time in the Royal Artillery, his experience being appointed an MBE and his unexpected journey to stardom at the age of 89. We also discuss his book, 'My Story. Love Changes Everything' and his enduring love for his late wife Joan. Join us as we reflect on his inspiring journey, his military service and his newfound fame with captivating stories of bravery, love, and resilience.00:49 Colin's MBE Award Journey05:49 Life at the Royal Hospital09:32 Britain's Got Talent Experience15:44 Reflecting on Joan's Legacy16:12 Early Marriage and Military Life17:22 Family and Cultural Heritage18:51 Royal Artillery and Highclere Event22:24 Musical Journey and Britain's Got Talent25:09 Post-Army Career and Civilian Life29:05 Meeting Jo and New BeginningsYou can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/New episodes are published on the first day of every month. 

01/02/2026 • 31:52

In this New Year special episode, I'm delighted to sit down with my husband. We reflect on the challenges and highlights of 2025, including our memorable 'Weekend to Remember' event and the exciting premiere of the 'Grand Finale' film. We also discuss the personal joys and trials on the farm and in our gardens, and the impact of a very dry summer. Looking forward, we share our excitement for upcoming events in 2026, including the construction of the new garden pavilion, various celebrations, and our special Viking cruise. Highlights include our successful charity efforts, advancements in our gin business and the addition of our adorable new spaniel puppies. Here's to a happy and prosperous 2026 for everyone!00:00 Welcome and New Year Reflections00:26 Challenges of 202501:03 A Memorable Weekend to Remember03:32 The Grand Finale Premiere04:59 Racing Highlights and Future Plans06:20 Business and Farming Challenges08:57 Exciting Upcoming Events11:55 Highclere Castle Gin's Global Recognition12:57 New Additions and Future Projects16:33 Concluding Thoughts and New Year WishesYou can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/New episodes are published on the first day of every month. 

01/01/2026 • 17:06

In this episode, we are joined by Toby Wilkinson, acclaimed Egyptologist, historian, and author, whose work has shed new light on the mysteries and marvels of ancient Egypt. Toby brings his deep expertise and passion for history to our conversation, offering listeners a fascinating journey through the world of pharaohs, pyramids, and the enduring legacy of one of humanity’s greatest civilizations.We delve into Toby’s latest research and publications, exploring the cultural, political, and spiritual life of ancient Egypt. Toby shares captivating stories from his fieldwork, discusses the challenges and rewards of uncovering the past, and reflects on what modern society can learn from the ancient world.Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply curious about the wonders of Egypt, this episode promises to inspire and inform, revealing the timeless relevance of ancient wisdom.Key moments:01:20 – Introduction to Ancient Egypt02:18 – Toby’s Journey as an Egyptologist04:15 – Major Discoveries and Insights06:41 – Life and Culture in Ancient Egypt07:46 – Lessons for Today13:10 – Final Thoughts and ReflectionsJoin us as we unlock the secrets of the past with one of the world’s leading experts on ancient Egypt.You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/New episodes are published on the first day of every month. 

01/12/2025 • 27:47

I'm delighted to have the prolific author Santa Sebag Montefiore as my special guest. We reminisce about our early days and dive into Santa's successful writing career, including her latest book in the Pixie Tate series. Santa shares insights into her writing process, the inspiration behind her characters, and her love for weaving spiritual themes into her novels. We also discuss the challenges of breaking into the literary world and the importance of hope and faith for young people today. Join us for a heartfelt conversation filled with personal anecdotes and fascinating stories.00:45 Santa Montefiore's Writing Journey01:38 The Time Slide Series03:51 Spiritual Themes in Writing06:17 Early Inspirations and Writing Beginnings09:34 First Publishing Success16:49 International Book Tours and Challenges23:44 Personal Spiritual ExperiencesYou can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/New episodes are published on the first day of every month. 

01/11/2025 • 30:34

Lady Carnarvon welcomes Harriet Evans, a former publisher turned writer, to Highclere Castle. Harriet discusses her journey from working at Penguin Books to becoming a successful author. They delve into her latest book, 'The Treasures,' part of the Seven Stones Trilogy, which is rich in historical and geographical details. Harriet shares her writing process, her love for creating vivid settings, and the influence of her literary family. The conversation also touches on overcoming insecurities, the importance of good editors, and the challenges of choosing book titles and covers. Lady Carnarvon and Harriet bond over their shared appreciation for history, places, and the personal treasures that inspire their works.00:45 Harriet's Early Writing Journey02:02 Family Influence and Writing Motivation02:46 Challenges and Growth as a Writer04:10 The Importance of Place in Writing07:11 Career Beginnings and Publishing Insights10:23 Research and Writing Process15:20 Historical Inspirations and Personal Stories18:42 Reflecting on Youth and Memories19:19 The Significance of Letters and Treasures21:53 Writing and Publishing Journey23:07 Challenges and Triumphs in Writing24:32 Navigating the Publishing Industry30:06 The Importance of Covers and Titles32:05 The Value of Books and Reading32:54 Highclere Castle Garden PartyYou can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/New episodes are published on the first day of every month. 

30/09/2025 • 33:55

 I welcome my dear friend Callie Coles to the podcast. Callie, the author of a fabulous new book and the first of a trilogy, shares whimsical tales from her bucolic life on the Devon-Cornwall border. We delve into her enchanting Instagram account, which offers a nostalgic glimpse into her world filled with ponies, dogs, and her picturesque home. We discuss Callie's unique and therapeutic relationship with her pony, Sparky, whose presence has become a ray of sunshine in their already idyllic life. Callie also talks about her writing journey, balancing her creative endeavors with the lively chaos of family life and the adventures that inspired her book set in Newmarket. Join us as we explore the joys of animals, the magic of rural life, and the emotional rollercoaster of being an author. Finally, Callie shares her insights into the highs and lows of the writing process and offers a sneak peek into her next literary endeavors.01:01 Life in North Devon01:39 Meet Sparky the Pony03:06 The Story of Sparky's Arrival08:07 Writing Amidst Chaos08:53 Racing Adventures in Newmarket13:47 Self-Publishing Journey14:41 The Rollercoaster of Writing15:21 The Editor's Red Pen16:19 Recording the Audiobook17:41 The Book Club Journey22:21 Drawing from Life Experiences23:36 Ponies and Childhood Memories25:59 Living with Horses27:38 The Charm of Stately HomesYou can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/New episodes are published on the first day of every month. 

31/08/2025 • 29:12

Today, I am delighted to be joined by Owen O'Kane, an expert psychotherapist specializing in anxiety. Owen shares his unique perspective on viewing anxiety as an ally that can be positively harnessed when understood properly. We dive into his latest book, which provides not only a deep insight into anxiety but practical steps to manage it. Owen opens up about his personal experiences with anxiety, his professional insights from working in palliative care, and his childhood in Northern Ireland. We also discuss the therapeutic benefits of connecting with animals and simple moments of contentment in life. Join us as we explore transforming anxiety into a source of strength and clarity.01:20 Discussing the Book and Anxiety02:18 Personal Experiences with Anxiety04:15 Therapeutic Approaches to Anxiety06:41 Analogies and Real-Life Examples07:46 The Role of Animals in Therapy13:10 Final Thoughts and ReflectionsYou can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/New episodes are published on the first day of every month. 

31/07/2025 • 28:21

I'm delighted to welcome the wonderful Miranda Hart to our podcast. We cover many topics, from the importance of joyfulness and humor in life to her iconic character Ms. Bates in Jane Austen's 'Emma'. Miranda opens up about the challenges she faced during her career and the inspiration behind her book, 'I Haven't Been Entirely Honest With You'. We chat about the intricacies of British humor, the pressures of performing in front of a studio audience, and the technical aspects of comedy. Miranda also shares personal stories about her health struggles, finding strength in vulnerability, and her unique approach to writing, which includes 'treasures of darkness' she discovered through her own experiences. Join us for this heartfelt and humorous conversation, complete with aspirations for future gallops around the garden and cherished moments of British comedic history.00:56 Discussing British Humor and Sitcoms01:45 Miranda's Memorable Roles and Experiences03:00 The Art of Comedy and Scriptwriting07:51 Challenges and Vulnerability in Acting09:24 Miranda's Book and Personal Treasures13:08 Living with Chronic Illness19:39 Finding Joy and Future PlansYou can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/New episodes are published on the first day of every month. 

30/06/2025 • 23:10

I'm thrilled to welcome the incredibly talented craftsman, Matthew Edley, known as Ted. Sitting down at Highclere Castle, we delve into Ted's journey from a punk rocker with a distinct red Mohican to a renowned metalwork master. We talk about his meticulous work repairing and conserving the castle’s historical candelabra and lamps, including converting them from candlelight to electric while maintaining their historical integrity. Ted also shares his experiences as a part of the TV series 'The Restorers,' where he showcases the art of craftsmanship and restoration. We discuss the importance of using traditional techniques and materials to preserve history and how these skills are transferred across various trades. Join us as we celebrate the blend of modern restoration with historical preservation at Highclere Castle.00:43 Ted's Craftsmanship and Metalworking01:20 Challenges of Restoring Highclere Castle03:17 Conservation vs. Restoration07:44 Ted's Television Career09:11 The Art of Traditional Techniques11:52 Future Projects and Collaborations14:53 Reflections on Highclere CastleYou can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/New episodes are published on the first day of every month. 

31/05/2025 • 18:14

In this podcast episode, I am delighted to welcome author Sinclair Mackay to discuss his captivating book on Winston Churchill, which delves into 90 meetings over Churchill's 90-year life. Our conversation covers Churchill's diverse roles and personal attributes, from his military valour to his romanticism, and even his encounters with notable figures like Einstein and Queen Elizabeth II. Sinclair shares how Churchill's fearless and multifaceted nature made him an extraordinary figure, one who continually adapted to monumental changes in society. We also touch on Churchill's lasting impact on today's world and the different generations' perceptions of him. It's a thoroughly engaging discussion filled with fun anecdotes and thought-provoking insights about one of history's most complex characters.00:36 Churchill's Fascinating Encounters01:07 Writing Style and Approach02:14 Churchill's Relationships and Personal Life04:42 Churchill's Military and Political Career06:25 Churchill's Emotional Depth and Romanticism10:52 Churchill's Social and Financial Challenges14:42 Churchill's Diverse Friendships and Interests15:32 Highclere Castle and Social Changes16:09 Churchill's Lifespan and Historical Impact18:26 Churchill's Fearlessness and Adventures21:10 Churchill's Post-War Vision and Legacy24:45 Churchill's Relationships and Influence27:40 Reflections on Churchill's Complex LegacyYou can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/New episodes are published on the first day of every month. 

30/04/2025 • 30:48

In this episode, I sit down with the immensely talented artist and illustrator, Lucy Clare Dunbar, at Highclere Castle. Lucy shares her journey into becoming an illustrator, influenced by her father's artistry, and her love for drawing from a young age. She discusses the challenges she faced, particularly losing her sight due to health issues, and how drawing became a form of therapy for her. Her sight eventually returned, giving her a profound appreciation for life. We delve into her book 'The Book of Gifts,' which combines her heartfelt sketches and words that reflect her personal experiences and hopes to uplift others. Lucy also talks about her creative family, her process of combining words with sketches, and how she draws inspiration from everyday moments and her beloved pets. Her story is a testament to resilience, creativity, and the importance of living in the present.01:35 Lucy's Artistic Journey02:00 Overcoming Adversity03:43 Family of Artists04:37 The Book of Gifts06:42 The Creative Process13:16 Love for Animals16:18 Living in the MomentYou can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/New episodes are published on the first day of every month. 

31/03/2025 • 21:18

Today, I'm thrilled to welcome one of my favorite historians, Alice Loxton, to the castle. We discuss her fascinating book 'Eighteen', which delves into the lives of historical figures when they were 18 years old. Alice shares her passion for medieval history and reveals how @history_alice came into being. We explore her unique approach to writing, imagining historical characters in modern settings to bring them to life. I was particularly intrigued by her diverse selection of characters, from Bede to Vivienne Westwood, and how she makes history accessible and engaging for everyone.00:22 Exploring Historical Layers01:04 The Book 'Eighteen' and Its Unique Approach04:13 Diverse Historical Figures09:49 Social Media and History18:04 Writing and Research Process25:37 Future PlansYou can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/New episodes are published on the first day of every month. 

01/03/2025 • 25:59

In this episode, I sit down with aviation author Rowland White to discuss Geoffrey de Havilland's remarkable contributions to aviation, focusing on the iconic Mosquito plane. We explore de Havilland's early failures and eventual successes, including his innovative use of wood to construct aircraft. We also delve into personal stories connected to Highclere Castle and discussongoing efforts to restore Mosquito planes to flying condition!You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/New episodes are published on the first day of every month. 

01/02/2025 • 38:55

In my first podcast of the year, I am joined by my husband, to discuss reflections on the past year and hopes for the future. We talk about various personal and public topics including the challenges of the past year, changes in the weather, and updates from our lives.We discuss the upcoming release of a third Downton Abbey film and chat about our gardening efforts, plans for hosting events at Highclere Castle, our gin production achievements, and hopes for our horses in training.It is so important to maintain optimism and cherish moments of joy amidst ongoing global and personal challenges.00:19 Reflecting on the Past Year00:45 Weather and Hopes for the New Year00:57 Downton Abbey Updates03:08 Springtime in the Gardens04:40 Memorial Garden06:40 Highclere Castle Projects08:01 Guided Tours and Exhibitions09:10 Farming and Gin Production14:57 Horse Breeding and Training16:11 Life with Nine DogsYou can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/New episodes are published on the first day of every month. 

01/01/2025 • 18:08

My guest this month is Liz Earle, renowned for her iconic beauty products. Liz discusses her transition from running a beauty brand to writing about health and wellness. We talk about her latest book, which offers personal insights and practical advice for living a healthier and longer life, especially for midlife women. We explore topics like nutrition, gut health, the importance of social connections, and self-care. Liz also shares her personal journey, her passion for community, and her humanitarian work in Africa. The episode concludes with reflections on maintaining brain health, physical fitness, and the critical role of nourishment.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:30 Liz Earle's Journey in Beauty and Wellness01:06 Writing and Living Well Longer02:49 Challenges and Health Tips for Midlife Women06:52 The Importance of Social Connections11:30 Grounding and Connecting with Nature14:42 Nutrition, Cooking, and Sustainable Living19:18 Future Projects and Longevity Goals21:01 Balancing Personal Life and Public Image27:39 Conclusion and FarewellYou can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/New episodes are published on the first day of every month. 

01/12/2024 • 27:58

My guest this month is a trusted and familiar broadcaster on all things medical. Best known for his regular TV appearances he's also no stranger to writing. But until recently his books have been strictly non-fiction. Now he's branched out into story-telling with his WWI novel, Frontline, published in September 2021. I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with him. You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/New episodes are published on the first day of every month. 

01/11/2024 • 30:04

I'll let you listen to this edition of my podcast to find out exactly how I first met Tom, but suffice to say it has been a great joy to get to know him. Tom is a writer, actor, TV presenter but is perhaps best known as a stand-up comedian. These days he's rarely off the TV so it was fabulous that he found time to join me for a chat at the real Downton Abbey!You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/New episodes are published on the first day of every month. 

01/10/2024 • 36:29

Joining me at the real Downton Abbey for this month's podcast is the author Veronica Henry. Veronica has written more than twenty bestselling novels having started her career as a script writer in TV and Radio. Her latest book is called 'The Secret Beach' - a perfect read as we bid farewell to summer. You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/New episodes are published on the first day of every month. 

01/09/2024 • 27:46

For this month's podcast I had planned to take a walk through a few rooms at the real Downton Abbey with our castle manager John. Whether it was the heat of the day or the lively conversation we only made it to one room! John has been at Highclere Castle for almost twenty years and this was a chance to look back on the many achievements we've celebrated during that time. The title of this podcast was our first major project. You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/New episodes are published on the first day of every month. 

01/08/2024 • 30:04

Summer in Britain has been slow to arrive this year, but on a lovely sunny afternoon Geordie and I took a walk through the gardens to enjoy the sights, sounds, and scents that make up our beautiful surroundings. I should say that although sunny it was a little windy but don't be put off by the background noise we do find shelter from the wind at plenty of points along the way. So whatever you're doing come along with us on our summer walk. You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/New episodes are published on the first day of every month. 

01/07/2024 • 22:43

In the midst of filming for the third Downton Abbey movie I was pleased to welcome John Tye to Highclere. John is an inspirational character who flew the record-breaking supersonic airliner Concorde. Starting life in an orphanage he made it to the edge of space in one of the world's most advanced flying machines. He's just published his story in a new book called 'Life of a Concorde Pilot'.This is John's second appearance on my podcast! You can also hear him in episode 23 when he was one of the three Concorde pilots I had the pleasure of talking to. You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/New episodes are published on the first day of every month. 

01/06/2024 • 34:20

In this episode of my podcast I get to talk about two of my great loves - words and language.My guest Susie Dent is an English lexicographer, etymologist, and the word referee in "Dictionary Corner" on the TV game show Countdown since 1992. Susie is also a bestselling author having written many books on the English language including her latest which is aimed at children, "Roots of Happiness: 100 Words for Joy and Hope". I was delighted she agreed to join me as a guest on my podcast here at the real Downton Abbey.......You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/New episodes are published on the first day of every month. 

01/05/2024 • 40:16

My guest this month is local nature writer Nicola Chester. As Spring arrives at the real Downton Abbey it was lovely to sit down and talk about the beautiful countryside that surrounds us. Nicola's Award Winning Memoir is called 'On Gallows Down: Place, Protest and Belonging'.You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/New episodes are published on the first day of every month. 

01/04/2024 • 23:59

Behind the scenes at the real Downton Abbey this month I'm talking to raecehorse trainer Richard Hannon who is not only a good friend to my husband and myself but looks after some of the racehorses we've bred. Racing is very close to our hearts here at Highclere Castle especially as my father in law was the late Queen's racing manager and Richard's father trained some of Her Majesty's horses.Richard took over from his father in 2014 and clocked up his 1000th winner on Derby Day in 2019 and is now well on his way towards winner number 2000.You can hear more episodes of Lady Carnarvon's Official Podcasts at https://www.ladycarnarvon.com/podcast/New episodes are published on the first day of every month. 

01/03/2024 • 29:31