Episode Description: On this very special bonus episode, the Countess of Derby sits down with architectural historian Dr John Martin Robinson FSA to discuss the architecture of Knowsley Hall. In the episode, Lady Derby learns how the Stanley rebuilt their family seat after Lathom House was destroyed, and Dr Robinson explains the significant and unique architectural facets of the house, and Lady Derby reveals how she and her husband brought Knowsley back to life.About Knowsley Hall: Knowsley Hall began life as a medieval hunting lodge in the 12th century, but the earliest part of today’s building dates from about 1500. The hall has been progressively added to over the years and now is a structure boasting a Georgian façade and Jacobean, Baroque and Victorian interiors. The house was significantly rebuilt in the early 18th century by the 10th Earl, and was enlarged again by the Victorian Earls of Derby. Knowsley Hall has over 100 rooms, 20 bedrooms, and two libraries. The State Dining Room, with its 50ft-high ceiling, can seat 50 people at one long table. The parkland alone stretches to 2,500 acres, within of the 12,000 acre estate in Northern England. Shakespeare’s first company of actors – Lord Strange’s Men - performed in the hall under the patronage of the, the 5th Earl. The performance-loving 6th Earl continued the family’s patronage of Shakespeare; ’A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ was probably first performed at his wedding to Elizabeth de Vere in front of Queen Elizabeth I at Greenwich Palace. Edward Lear, who popularised the limerick poetic form, wrote his nonsense poems in the hall for the grandchildren of the 12th Earl. Today the hall is home to the 19th Earl and Countess of Derby and their family. Under Lord & Lady Derby’s custodianship, Knowsley has enjoyed a renaissance as a centre of learning & community, welcoming people from across the globe. About the Host: The Countess of Derby was born Caroline Emma Neville in 1963, the daughter of Robin Neville, 10th Baron Braybrooke, of the House of Neville, and Robin Helen Brockhoff. Having studied History of Art, Lady Derby previously worked as assistant to the Curator of the Queen’s Pictures, at Windsor Castle. In 1994 she married Edward Stanley, the 19th Earl of Derby, with whom she has three children. Lady Derby competes in dressage, currently holding the title of National Music Champion at Prix St Georges level. As custodian of Knowsley Hall, Lady Derby has overseen a vast restoration of both the hall and it’s collection, which has furthered her interest in art and history. Lady Derby also works with a collection of local organisations and charities in her local area. Resources: Book your private stay today: https://knowsley.com/privatestays/ Order your copy of A Grand Tour journal 1820-22; The Awakening of the Man, edited by Professor Angus Hawkins. Published by Fontill Media. Now available on Amazon.com (http://amazon.com/) https://www.onefineplay.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode Description: In this episode, the Countess of Derby meets John Phibbs, Dr David Jacques and Dr Clemency Fisher to explore the fascinating story behind how the park and gardens at Knowsley were created. They discuss Capability Brown, what he did on the estate and why he’s considered England's greatest gardener. Lady Derby also learns how the 13th Earl built the largest private zoo ever and how his work helped save animals from extinction. They also investigate the 13th Earl’s friendship with Edward Lear, and how the young illustrator and writer would later work and live on the estate. About Knowsley Hall: Knowsley Hall began life as a medieval hunting lodge in the 12th century, but the earliest part of today’s building dates from about 1500. The hall has been progressively added to over the years and now is a structure boasting a Georgian façade and Jacobean, Baroque and Victorian interiors. The house was significantly rebuilt in the early 18th century by the 10th Earl, and was enlarged again by the Victorian Earls of Derby. Knowsley Hall has over 100 rooms, 20 bedrooms, and two libraries. The State Dining Room, with its 50ft-high ceiling, can seat 50 people at one long table. The parkland alone stretches to 2,500 acres, within of the 12,000 acre estate in Northern England. Shakespeare’s first company of actors – Lord Strange’s Men - performed in the hall under the patronage of the, the 5th Earl. The performance-loving 6th Earl continued the family’s patronage of Shakespeare; ’A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ was probably first performed at his wedding to Elizabeth de Vere in front of Queen Elizabeth I at Greenwich Palace. Edward Lear, who popularised the limerick poetic form, wrote his nonsense poems in the hall for the grandchildren of the 12th Earl. Today the hall is home to the 19th Earl and Countess of Derby and their family. Under Lord & Lady Derby’s custodianship, Knowsley has enjoyed a renaissance as a centre of learning & community, welcoming people from across the globe. About the Host: The Countess of Derby was born Caroline Emma Neville in 1963, the daughter of Robin Neville, 10th Baron Braybrooke, of the House of Neville, and Robin Helen Brockhoff. Having studied History of Art, Lady Derby previously worked as assistant to the Curator of the Queen’s Pictures, at Windsor Castle. In 1994 she married Edward Stanley, the 19th Earl of Derby, with whom she has three children. Lady Derby competes in dressage, currently holding the title of National Music Champion at Prix St Georges level. As custodian of Knowsley Hall, Lady Derby has overseen a vast restoration of both the hall and it’s collection, which has furthered her interest in art and history. Lady Derby also works with a collection of local organisations and charities in her local area. Resources: Book your private stay today: https://knowsley.com/privatestays/ Order your copy of A Grand Tour journal 1820-22; The Awakening of the Man, edited by Professor Angus Hawkins. Published by Fontill Media. Now available on Amazon.com (http://amazon.com/) https://www.onefineplay.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode Description: In this episode, the countess of Derby meets Geoffrey Hicks and Dr. Jennifer Davey to discuss the life of the former prime minister, the 14th Earl of Derby, and how a journey to the USA would inspire him to pass anti-slavery legislation in Britain. The team explore how the 14th Earl helped drastically reform education in Ireland and why, despite entering 10 Downing street three times, he was known as the forgotten prime minister. They also us discuss other significant political figures in the family - including a Lady Mary Derby who was described as a ‘fierce political operator’ and, how her and her husband’s role in resolving the Eastern Crisis would lead them to be accused of treason by Queen Victoria. About Knowsley Hall: Knowsley Hall began life as a medieval hunting lodge in the 12th century, but the earliest part of today’s building dates from about 1500. The hall has been progressively added to over the years and now is a structure boasting a Georgian façade and Jacobean, Baroque and Victorian interiors. The house was significantly rebuilt in the early 18th century by the 10th Earl, and was enlarged again by the Victorian Earls of Derby. Knowsley Hall has over 100 rooms, 20 bedrooms, and two libraries. The State Dining Room, with its 50ft-high ceiling, can seat 50 people at one long table. The parkland alone stretches to 2,500 acres, within of the 12,000 acre estate in Northern England. Shakespeare’s first company of actors – Lord Strange’s Men - performed in the hall under the patronage of the, the 5th Earl. The performance-loving 6th Earl continued the family’s patronage of Shakespeare; ’A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ was probably first performed at his wedding to Elizabeth de Vere in front of Queen Elizabeth I at Greenwich Palace. Edward Lear, who popularised the limerick poetic form, wrote his nonsense poems in the hall for the grandchildren of the 12th Earl. Today the hall is home to the 19th Earl and Countess of Derby and their family. Under Lord & Lady Derby’s custodianship, Knowsley has enjoyed a renaissance as a centre of learning & community, welcoming people from across the globe. About the Host: The Countess of Derby was born Caroline Emma Neville in 1963, the daughter of Robin Neville, 10th Baron Braybrooke, of the House of Neville, and Robin Helen Brockhoff. Having studied History of Art, Lady Derby previously worked as assistant to the Curator of the Queen’s Pictures, at Windsor Castle. In 1994 she married Edward Stanley, the 19th Earl of Derby, with whom she has three children. Lady Derby competes in dressage, currently holding the title of National Music Champion at Prix St Georges level. As custodian of Knowsley Hall, Lady Derby has overseen a vast restoration of both the hall and it’s collection, which has furthered her interest in art and history. Lady Derby also works with a collection of local organisations and charities in her local area. Resources: Book your private stay today: https://knowsley.com/privatestays/ Order your copy of A Grand Tour journal 1820-22; The Awakening of the Man, edited by Professor Angus Hawkins. Published by Fontill Media. Now available on Amazon.com (http://amazon.com/) https://www.onefineplay.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode Description: In today’s episode, Lady Derby sits down Alexandra Mason and her husband Edward 19th Earl of Derby, to explore the history & association of horse racing to the Earls of Derby. In their conversation, Alexandra and Lord Derby explain which family members had more passion than others for racing and why it isn’t just the sport of kings but has always been a sport for everyone. We learn about the fascinating story behind the epsom derby, and its name was decided on the flip of a coin. We also investigate the life of the 14th Earl, aka the ‘forgotten prime minister’ and how racing was an outlet for his political responsibilities. About Knowsley Hall: Knowsley Hall began life as a medieval hunting lodge in the 12th century, but the earliest part of today’s building dates from about 1500. The hall has been progressively added to over the years and now is a structure boasting a Georgian façade and Jacobean, Baroque and Victorian interiors. The house was significantly rebuilt in the early 18th century by the 10th Earl, and was enlarged again by the Victorian Earls of Derby. Knowsley Hall has over 100 rooms, 20 bedrooms, and two libraries. The State Dining Room, with its 50ft-high ceiling, can seat 50 people at one long table. The parkland alone stretches to 2,500 acres, within of the 12,000 acre estate in Northern England. Shakespeare’s first company of actors – Lord Strange’s Men - performed in the hall under the patronage of the, the 5th Earl. The performance-loving 6th Earl continued the family’s patronage of Shakespeare; ’A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ was probably first performed at his wedding to Elizabeth de Vere in front of Queen Elizabeth I at Greenwich Palace. Edward Lear, who popularised the limerick poetic form, wrote his nonsense poems in the hall for the grandchildren of the 12th Earl. Today the hall is home to the 19th Earl and Countess of Derby and their family. Under Lord & Lady Derby’s custodianship, Knowsley has enjoyed a renaissance as a centre of learning & community, welcoming people from across the globe. About the Host: The Countess of Derby was born Caroline Emma Neville in 1963, the daughter of Robin Neville, 10th Baron Braybrooke, of the House of Neville, and Robin Helen Brockhoff. Having studied History of Art, Lady Derby previously worked as assistant to the Curator of the Queen’s Pictures, at Windsor Castle. In 1994 she married Edward Stanley, the 19th Earl of Derby, with whom she has three children. Lady Derby competes in dressage, currently holding the title of National Music Champion at Prix St Georges level. As custodian of Knowsley Hall, Lady Derby has overseen a vast restoration of both the hall and it’s collection, which has furthered her interest in art and history. Lady Derby also works with a collection of local organisations and charities in her local area. Resources: Book your private stay today: https://knowsley.com/privatestays/ Order your copy of A Grand Tour journal 1820-22; The Awakening of the Man, edited by Professor Angus Hawkins. Published by Fontill Media. Now available on Amazon.com (http://amazon.com/) https://www.onefineplay.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode Description: This time on the podcast, Lady Derby meets Dr. Richard Stephens and Dr. Stephen Lloyd where we spoke about our incredible Derby Collection - and the story behind the many breathtaking and fascinating works of art that comprises it. In the episode, they discuss the many masterpieces in the Derby collection, and some that were lost to time including works by Rembrandt and da Vinci. They also talk about how Knowsley Hall was effectively a life drawing academy for living artists of the period as well as a platform to showcase contemporary works of art. And the team explores why it was important for prominent families and estates to collect art. About Knowsley Hall: Knowsley Hall began life as a medieval hunting lodge in the 12th century, but the earliest part of today’s building dates from about 1500. The hall has been progressively added to over the years and now is a structure boasting a Georgian façade and Jacobean, Baroque and Victorian interiors. The house was significantly rebuilt in the early 18th century by the 10th Earl, and was enlarged again by the Victorian Earls of Derby. Knowsley Hall has over 100 rooms, 20 bedrooms, and two libraries. The State Dining Room, with its 50ft-high ceiling, can seat 50 people at one long table. The parkland alone stretches to 2,500 acres, within of the 12,000 acre estate in Northern England. Shakespeare’s first company of actors – Lord Strange’s Men - performed in the hall under the patronage of the, the 5th Earl. The performance-loving 6th Earl continued the family’s patronage of Shakespeare; ’A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ was probably first performed at his wedding to Elizabeth de Vere in front of Queen Elizabeth I at Greenwich Palace. Edward Lear, who popularised the limerick poetic form, wrote his nonsense poems in the hall for the grandchildren of the 12th Earl. Today the hall is home to the 19th Earl and Countess of Derby and their family. Under Lord & Lady Derby’s custodianship, Knowsley has enjoyed a renaissance as a centre of learning & community, welcoming people from across the globe. About the Host: The Countess of Derby was born Caroline Emma Neville in 1963, the daughter of Robin Neville, 10th Baron Braybrooke, of the House of Neville, and Robin Helen Brockhoff. Having studied History of Art, Lady Derby previously worked as assistant to the Curator of the Queen’s Pictures, at Windsor Castle. In 1994 she married Edward Stanley, the 19th Earl of Derby, with whom she has three children. Lady Derby competes in dressage, currently holding the title of National Music Champion at Prix St Georges level. As custodian of Knowsley Hall, Lady Derby has overseen a vast restoration of both the hall and it’s collection, which has furthered her interest in art and history. Lady Derby also works with a collection of local organisations and charities in her local area. Resources: Book your private stay today: https://knowsley.com/privatestays/ Order your copy of A Grand Tour journal 1820-22; The Awakening of the Man, edited by Professor Angus Hawkins. Published by Fontill Media. Now available on Amazon.com (http://amazon.com/) https://www.onefineplay.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode Description: This time Lady Derby is joined by historians Professor Elspeth Graham and author Dr Vanessa Wilkie to discuss the history of patronage, theatrical performance and connection between William Shakespeare and Knowsley Hall. In the episode, they explore why theatrical performance was so important for prominent families in the Elizabethan and Jacobean periods and how this led to the growth of commercial theatre. They learn about the 5th Earl who was a quintessential renaissance man and how a succession scandal involving the royal throne led to his mysterious death. They also investigate the validity behind the claim that’ A Midsummer’s Night Dream’ was premiered first at the wedding of William, 6th Earl of Derby. About Knowsley Hall: Knowsley Hall began life as a medieval hunting lodge in the 12th century, but the earliest part of today’s building dates from about 1500. The hall has been progressively added to over the years and now is a structure boasting a Georgian façade and Jacobean, Baroque and Victorian interiors. The house was significantly rebuilt in the early 18th century by the 10th Earl, and was enlarged again by the Victorian Earls of Derby. Knowsley Hall has over 100 rooms, 20 bedrooms, and two libraries. The State Dining Room, with its 50ft-high ceiling, can seat 50 people at one long table. The parkland alone stretches to 2,500 acres, within of the 12,000 acre estate in Northern England. Shakespeare’s first company of actors – Lord Strange’s Men - performed in the hall under the patronage of the, the 5th Earl. The performance-loving 6th Earl continued the family’s patronage of Shakespeare; ’A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ was probably first performed at his wedding to Elizabeth de Vere in front of Queen Elizabeth I at Greenwich Palace. Edward Lear, who popularised the limerick poetic form, wrote his nonsense poems in the hall for the grandchildren of the 12th Earl. Today the hall is home to the 19th Earl and Countess of Derby and their family. Under Lord & Lady Derby’s custodianship, Knowsley has enjoyed a renaissance as a centre of learning & community, welcoming people from across the globe. About the Host: The Countess of Derby was born Caroline Emma Neville in 1963, the daughter of Robin Neville, 10th Baron Braybrooke, of the House of Neville, and Robin Helen Brockhoff. Having studied History of Art, Lady Derby previously worked as assistant to the Curator of the Queen’s Pictures, at Windsor Castle. In 1994 she married Edward Stanley, the 19th Earl of Derby, with whom she has three children. Lady Derby competes in dressage, currently holding the title of National Music Champion at Prix St Georges level. As custodian of Knowsley Hall, Lady Derby has overseen a vast restoration of both the hall and it’s collection, which has furthered her interest in art and history. Lady Derby also works with a collection of local organisations and charities in her local area. Resources: Book your private stay today: https://knowsley.com/privatestays/ Order your copy of A Grand Tour journal 1820-22; The Awakening of the Man, edited by Professor Angus Hawkins. Published by Fontill Media. Now available on Amazon.com (http://amazon.com/) https://www.onefineplay.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Duchess of Rutland is back to make a very special announced about the upcoming season of Duchess For season five, the podcast will be hosted by a fan favourite guest from Season 1 - the Countess of Derby - as she embarks on a fascinating and revealing journey through the history of the Stanley family and Knowsley Hall. In the season, the countess will learn the truth about Shakespeare’s patronage through Knowsley Hall, we learn about the Earl that became known as ‘the forgotten prime minister’ and how a modern reinterpretation of his legacy is changing this. The countess also explores the family’s iconic connection to horse racing and the life of a man who built the largest private zoo in history. It’s going to be really special. Make sure you don’t miss it. This is Duchess. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to Duchess - the podcast that travels to the most historic homes in the UK & Ireland to meet the custodians who lead them today. This series, the podcast will be hosted by the 19th Countess of Derby - who will embark on a fascinating journey through the history of the Stanley family and delves into the story of their ancestral seat, Knowsley Hall. In this series, Lady Derby share's with us the unique connection between Shakespeare’s and Knowsley Hall, we learn about the 14th Earl, who became known as ‘the forgotten prime minister’ and how a modern reinterpretation of his legacy is changing this. Lady Derby also explores her family’s unique connection to horse racing and the introduces us to the 13th Earl who built the largest private zoo in history. We look forward to sharing these episodes with you. This is Duchess. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode Description: For our final episode of this very special series, the Duchess will be meeting with the CEO of Belvoir Castle, Emma Stenning, to discuss the business of Belvoir: past, present and future. In their conversation, the Duchess explains how historically a family like the Manners would have made their money, the Duchess reveals to Emma when she plans to retire, and we finally learn who has more staff - Belvoir or the Beckhams! Top Quotes: “I think of you [The Duchess of Rutland] as the artistic director of Belvoir. You have so many ideas, such great clarity of vision. I’ve worked with so many great artists and you’re another one.” - Emma Stenning “This is a theatre. Life’s a stage and I’m just playing the game. I will always be miss Emma Watkins - that Welsh farmer’s daughter.” - Duchess of Rutland About Belvoir Castle: Belvoir Castle is a 16,000-acre estate in Leicestershire, it’s history dates back to the 11th century in 1067. Crowning a hill, the Castle’s turrets and towers rise over the Vale of Belvoir, designed by the legendary landscape architect Capability Brown. The Belvoir Estate has been passed down through 36 successive generations of the Manners family, and an unbroken line of Dukes of Rutland for nearly 1000 years. James Wyatt, the renowned architect of Windsor Castle, designed the remodelled the Castle between 1801-1832 for the 5th Duke and Duchess of Rutland. Today, Belvoir Castle is one of the finest examples of Regency architecture in Britain and a modern working estate. In addition, the gardens have undergone several major changes over the centuries – the latest being a two-year restoration programme by the present Duchess to bring the lost plans of Capability Brown to fruition in 2016. About the Host: Emma, Duchess of Rutland, grew up far away from the world of the aristocracy. Born Emma Watkins, the Duchess grew up the daughter of a Quaker farmer, in the Welsh countryside. She trained as an opera singer in the Guildhall School of Music, and worked as a successful interior designer before meeting her future husband David Manners, the 11th Duke of Rutland, at a dinner party. Their marriage in 1992 thrust Emma into a new world, which included the responsibility of preserving one of the nation's greatest stately homes: Belvoir Castle. While simultaneously running the day to day operations of the castle, and raising five children, the Duchess became fascinated with the history and importance of the other stately homes of the UK. Join Emma as she embarks on a wonderful journey through time, to learn more about the incredible homes that have defined Great Britain and, most importantly, meet the other extraordinary women who work tirelessly in the background, to preserve their homes history and magic for future generations. Resources: https://www.belvoircastle.com/ https://www.onefineplay.com/ https://www.emmaduchessrutland.com/ https://www.belvoircastle.com/cinderella-at-belvoir/ This podcast was sponsored by BetterHelp. To Learn more and save 10% off your first month visit BetterHelp.com/duchess Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode Description: This week on the podcast, the Duchess meets Belvoir's head gardener, Tom Webster, who walks us through the gorgeous gardens of Belvoir. During their conversation, the Duchess learns about Tom’s fascinating gardening philosophy, Tom explains how he brought back the old fragrance of Belvoir, and why roses are the way to a woman’s heart. Later in the episode, the Duchess meets one of the estate’s top tour guides to discuss the legends of Belvoir - where the Duchess learns about the most haunted rooms in the castle, why one must discourage paranormal activity, and the tragic story of the ‘witches’ of Belvoir. Top Quotes: “From my own personal perspective, I like to keep the integrity of these gardens. Of course, no garden stands still and you have to keep changing them. But they have to be sympathetic changes.” - Tom Webster “I’ve never felt frightened here. I’ve only ever felt a warmth. I may not have felt alone, but I’ve never felt afraid.” - Olivia Jojoo About Belvoir Castle: Belvoir Castle is a 16,000-acre estate in Leicestershire, it’s history dates back to the 11th century in 1067. Crowning a hill, the Castle’s turrets and towers rise over the Vale of Belvoir, designed by the legendary landscape architect Capability Brown. The Belvoir Estate has been passed down through 36 successive generations of the Manners family, and an unbroken line of Dukes of Rutland for nearly 1000 years. James Wyatt, the renowned architect of Windsor Castle, designed the remodelled the Castle between 1801-1832 for the 5th Duke and Duchess of Rutland. Today, Belvoir Castle is one of the finest examples of Regency architecture in Britain and a modern working estate. In addition, the gardens have undergone several major changes over the centuries – the latest being a two-year restoration programme by the present Duchess to bring the lost plans of Capability Brown to fruition in 2016. About the Host: Emma, Duchess of Rutland, grew up far away from the world of the aristocracy. Born Emma Watkins, the Duchess grew up the daughter of a Quaker farmer, in the Welsh countryside. She trained as an opera singer in the Guildhall School of Music, and worked as a successful interior designer before meeting her future husband David Manners, the 11th Duke of Rutland, at a dinner party. Their marriage in 1992 thrust Emma into a new world, which included the responsibility of preserving one of the nation's greatest stately homes: Belvoir Castle. While simultaneously running the day to day operations of the castle, and raising five children, the Duchess became fascinated with the history and importance of the other stately homes of the UK. Join Emma as she embarks on a wonderful journey through time, to learn more about the incredible homes that have defined Great Britain and, most importantly, meet the other extraordinary women who work tirelessly in the background, to preserve their homes history and magic for future generations. Resources: https://www.belvoircastle.com/ https://www.onefineplay.com/ https://www.emmaduchessrutland.com/ https://www.belvoircastle.com/cinderella-at-belvoir/ This podcast was sponsored by BetterHelp. To Learn more and save 10% off your first month visit Better Help.com/duchess Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode Description: In this week’s episode, the Duchess meets Belvoir Castle’s archivist, Vicki Perry, to discuss the fascinating history of women at Belvoir Castle. In the show, Vicki will be sharing never before revealed letters and stories from the many extraordinary women who helped make Belvoir what it is today. Later in the show, the Duchess will then sit down with her daughter, Violet, to talk about what the life of a duchess is really like - past and present - and how this podcast came to be made! Top Quotes: “Each of the women we’ve had on the podcast up to this point have been completely different in character, but what unifies them all is their absolute determination to see heritage reimagined.” - Violet Manners “When it comes to running one of these homes, you never feel it belongs to you. You’re just a custodian.” - Duchess of Rutland About Belvoir Castle: About Belvoir Castle: Belvoir Castle is a 16,000-acre estate in Leicestershire, it’s history dates back to the 11th century in 1067. Crowning a hill, the Castle’s turrets and towers rise over the Vale of Belvoir, designed by the legendary landscape architect Capability Brown. The Belvoir Estate has been passed down through 36 successive generations of the Manners family, and an unbroken line of Dukes of Rutland for nearly 1000 years. James Wyatt, the renowned architect of Windsor Castle, designed the remodelled the Castle between 1801-1832 for the 5th Duke and Duchess of Rutland. Today, Belvoir Castle is one of the finest examples of Regency architecture in Britain and a modern working estate. In addition, the gardens have undergone several major changes over the centuries – the latest being a two-year restoration programme by the present Duchess to bring the lost plans of Capability Brown to fruition in 2016. About the Host: Emma, Duchess of Rutland, grew up far away from the world of the aristocracy. Born Emma Watkins, the Duchess grew up the daughter of a Quaker farmer, in the Welsh countryside. She trained as an opera singer in the Guildhall School of Music, and worked as a successful interior designer before meeting her future husband David Manners, the 11th Duke of Rutland, at a dinner party. Their marriage in 1992 thrust Emma into a new world, which included the responsibility of preserving one of the nation's greatest stately homes: Belvoir Castle. While simultaneously running the day to day operations of the castle, and raising five children, the Duchess became fascinated with the history and importance of the other stately homes of the UK. Join Emma as she embarks on a wonderful journey through time, to learn more about the incredible homes that have defined Great Britain and, most importantly, meet the other extraordinary women who work tirelessly in the background, to preserve their homes history and magic for future generations. Resources: https://www.belvoircastle.com/ https://www.onefineplay.com/ https://www.emmaduchessrutland.com/ https://www.belvoircastle.com/cinderella-at-belvoir/ This podcast is sponsored by BetterHelp. To Learn more and save 10% off your first month visit BetterHelp.com/duchess Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode Description: In this episode, the Duchess will be meeting the Duke’s private secretary - Harvey Proctor - to discuss the architecture of Belvoir Castle, the history behind the four castles of Belvoir, and how the effects of a disastrous 19th century fire can still be seen today. Then later in the show, the Duchess will be joined by the Duke of Rutland to discuss the history of the Manners family, to learn where the Manners family truly came from, and to get an insight into the many notable figures that make up Belvoir's past. Top Quotes: “If I had to describe Belvoir Castle in one word? Magnificent.” - Harvey Proctor “It’s important to log these archives because you’re preserving the past. And if you don’t know the past and the present you can’t move forward.” - The Duke of Rutland About Belvoir Castle: Belvoir Castle is a 16,000-acre estate in Leicestershire, it’s history dates back to the 11th century in 1067. Crowning a hill, the Castle’s turrets and towers rise over the Vale of Belvoir, designed by the legendary landscape architect Capability Brown. The Belvoir Estate has been passed down through 36 successive generations of the Manners family, and an unbroken line of Dukes of Rutland for nearly 1000 years. James Wyatt, the renowned architect of Windsor Castle, designed the remodelled the Castle between 1801-1832 for the 5th Duke and Duchess of Rutland. Today, Belvoir Castle is one of the finest examples of Regency architecture in Britain and a modern working estate. In addition, the gardens have undergone several major changes over the centuries – the latest being a two-year restoration programme by the present Duchess to bring the lost plans of Capability Brown to fruition in 2016. About the Host: Emma, Duchess of Rutland, grew up far away from the world of the aristocracy. Born Emma Watkins, the Duchess grew up the daughter of a Quaker farmer, in the Welsh countryside. She trained as an opera singer in the Guildhall School of Music, and worked as a successful interior designer before meeting her future husband David Manners, the 11th Duke of Rutland, at a dinner party. Their marriage in 1992 thrust Emma into a new world, which included the responsibility of preserving one of the nation's greatest stately homes: Belvoir Castle. While simultaneously running the day to day operations of the castle, and raising five children, the Duchess became fascinated with the history and importance of the other stately homes of the UK. Join Emma as she embarks on a wonderful journey through time, to learn more about the incredible homes that have defined Great Britain and, most importantly, meet the other extraordinary women who work tirelessly in the background, to preserve their homes history and magic for future generations. Resources: https://www.belvoircastle.com/ https://www.onefineplay.com/ https://www.emmaduchessrutland.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In these ‘Memories’ episodes, Emma has selected some of her most treasured memories from the Duchess podcast. This week, Lady Derby of Knowsley and the Duchess discuss the unforeseen challenges, and even some of the surprising benefits, of running a stately home during the pandemic. In the full episode, Lady Derby speaks to The Duchess about the impressive Stanley family lineage, the ladies discuss the estates astounding connection to Shakespeare, and we are given insight into the equestrian pedigree of at Knowsley Hall. Listen to the full episode here: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/lady-derby-of-knowsley-hall/id1551120994?i=1000510554083 Resources: https://knowsleyhallvenue.co.uk/ https://www.belvoircastle.com/ https://www.onefineplay.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In these ‘Memories’ episodes, Emma has selected some of her most treasured memories from the Duchess podcast. This time we are revisiting Kinnaird Castle, where the Duchess met Caroline Fife, Duchess of Fife, to talk about the history of empowering women at the estate. In the full episode, the Duchesses speak extensively about the estate’s rebellious history, listeners catch a glimpse of the magnificent art collection in the castle, and we learn about the many groundbreaking conservation projects that are being developed at the estate. Listen to the full episode here: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-duchess-of-fife-at-kinnaird-castle/id1551120994?i=1000514306859 Resources: https://kinnairdcastle.co.uk/ https://www.belvoircastle.com/ https://www.onefineplay.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In these ‘Memories’ episodes, Emma has selected some of her most treasured memories from the Duchess podcast. On this week’s Memory, we look back to when the Duchess met Catherine Maxwell Stuart of Traquair House and spoke about the 1000 years of Scottish History at the estate and the future of Scotland going forward. In the full episode, we learn what it’s like to be the first Lady Laird of Traquair, we hear the tale behind the famous ‘closed gates’ of Traquair (and why tradition states they must always remain closed), and Catherine educates the Duchess on the most important feature of a Scottish home: A watchtower. Listen to the full episode here: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/catherine-maxwell-stuart-of-traquair-house/id1551120994?i=1000516224076 Resources: https://www.traquair.co.uk/about-traquair/ https://www.belvoircastle.com/ https://www.onefineplay.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In these ‘Memories’ episodes, Emma has selected some of her most treasured memories from the Duchess podcast. On this week’s Memory, we revisit when Emma met Hollywood actress and Countess of Devon, A.J. Devon, where the Countess opened up about the initially challenging adjustment to life with a title and an estate. In the full episode, the Duchess learns about the splendid history Powderham castle, why LGBTQ rights are at the heart of the estates mission, and The Countess reflects on her career in Hollywood. Listen to the full episode here: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-countess-of-devon-at-powderham-castle/id1551120994?i=1000512481854 Resources: https://www.powderham.co.uk/ https://www.belvoircastle.com/ https://www.onefineplay.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In these ‘Memories’ episodes, Emma has selected some of her most treasured memories from the Duchess podcast. This week, we revisit Blenheim Palace where the Duchess and Lady Henrietta Spencer Churchill discussed the challenge of modernising stately homes. In the full episode, we hear how the Palace came to be against all odds, the ladies talk about Henrietta’s distinguished lineage and her memories of Winston Churchill, and we are taken on a tour of the incredible architecture and interiors of Blenheim. Listen to the full episode here: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/lady-henrietta-spencer-churchill-of-blenheim-palace/id1551120994?i=1000509616809 Resources: https://www.blenheimpalace.com/ https://www.belvoircastle.com/ https://www.onefineplay.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In these ‘Memories’ episodes, Emma has selected some of her most treasured memories from the Duchess podcast. On this week’s Memory, we listen back to when The Duchess met to Lady Mansfield of Scone Palace and heard the moving story of one of Britain’s first black aristocrats: Elizabeth Dido Bell. In the full episode Lady Mansfield and The Duchess speak about the incredible contributions the first Earl Mansfield made to racial equality, we learn about the Stone of Destiny and how central Scone was in crowing Scottish royalty, and Lady Mansfield explains the origins behind one of Scone’s great treasures: Marie Antoinette’s writing desk. Listen to the full episode here: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/lady-mansfield-of-scone-palace/id1551120994?i=1000511515822 Resources: https://scone-palace.co.uk/ https://www.belvoircastle.com/ https://www.onefineplay.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In these ‘Memories’ episodes, Emma has selected some of her most treasured memories from the Duchess podcast. This week we look back to when Emma met Her Grace, The Duchess of Argyll, and we heard the story of the iconic 20th century beauty Ethel Margaret Campbell. In the full episode, The Duchess of Argyll takes us inside her fabulous home: the historic Inveraray Castle. We learn all about the ghostly history that lives inside the imposing 15th century walls, we learn of Inveraray’s connection to Britain’s most treasured of chocolatiers, and the ladies discuss how such a powerful title can impact one’s personal identity. Listen to the full episode here: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-duchess-of-argyll-at-inveraray-castle/id1551120994?i=1000513499727 Resources: https://www.inveraray-castle.com/ https://www.belvoircastle.com/ https://www.onefineplay.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In these special bonus episodes, Emma has selected some of her most treasured memories from the Duchess podcast. This week, we have Demetra Lindsay of Hedingham Castle and the Duchess discussing some of the friendly ghosts that enchant their estates. In the full episode we learn about the incredible history of the UK’s greatest preserved Norman Keep, we hear a beautiful love story that challenged the social norms of it’s day, and we take a tour down the wonderful gardens of Hedingham. Listen to the full episode here: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/demetra-lindsay-of-hedingham-castle/id1551120994?i=1000507647002 Resources: https://www.hedinghamcastle.co.uk/ https://www.belvoircastle.com/ https://www.onefineplay.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As a young girl growing up in the idyllic Welsh countryside, Emma Rutland never could have imagined she would live a real life fairytale.  Born Emma Watkins, she met the 11th Duke of Rutland and fell in love. The couple married and Emma became the Duchess of Rutland. This transformation would thrust her into the world of the aristocracy - living in one of Britain's most important homes, Belvoir Castle.  The life of a Duchess was not just romance and glamour but also hard work and responsibility. Emma learned that everyday running a stately home is a battle and that she has to work tirelessly to ensure the castle sees tomorrow.  Emma wanted to learn more about the other stately homes of Great Britain, the history behind these estates, the families who call them home, and the other inspiring women who lead them today.  When her daughter Vi suggested a podcast, she knew she had to do it.  So please join Emma as she journeys through Britain, peeking behind the veil of history and aristocracy and meeting the empowering women who guide Britain’s stately homes today. This is Duchess, the podcast. About the Host: Emma Rutland, The Duchess of Rutland, did not always stride the halls of stately homes. Born Emma Watkins, the Duchess grew up the daughter of a Quaker farmer, in the Welsh marsh countryside. She trained as an opera singer in the Guildhall School of Music, and worked as a successful interior designer before meeting her future husband David Manners, the 11th Duke of Rutland, at a dinner party. Their marriage in 1992 would transform Emma Watkins into the 11th Duchess of Rutland, thrusting her into the world of aristocracy, and handing her the responsibility of one of the nation's great treasures: Belvoir Castle. While simultaneously running the day to day operations of the castle, and raising five children, The Duchess became fascinated with the history and importance of the other stately homes of the UK. Join The Duchess as she embarks on a wonderful journey through time, to learn more about the incredible homes that have defined Great Britain and, most importantly, meet the other extraordinary women who work tirelessly behind their doors to preserve their history and magic for future generations. Resources: https://www.belvoircastle.com/ https://www.onefineplay.com/ https://www.blenheimpalace.com/ https://www.duchessthepodcast.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices