
At the start of a new year many of us try to set new goals and make fresh starts – and that can apply to what podcasts we’re listening to too.
Yes, there’s more new history podcasts out there than you can shake a stick at – but which ones are actually worth listening to as we start 2021? I’ve rounded up my pick of the best new history podcasts to listen to in 2021.
If you like royal history, you will love… History Gems Podcast
A new history podcast fronted by one of my favourite historians, Dr Nicola Tallis, History Gems is a weekly podcast focusing on different gems and the stories behind them – many with royal links! Discussing intriguing stories such as a daring attempt to steal the Crown Jewels, the secrets behind a supposedly cursed diamond, and exploring the creation of the world’s most famous Easter eggs, this is a fascinating podcast for both history and jewellery lovers alike.
Fave episode so far – Richard III and the boar badge with Julian Humphreys. In this episode of History Gems, Nicola is joined by historian, lecturer and battlefield guide Julian Humphreys, to discuss Richard III, his ascent to the throne, and a metal badge which gave vital clues to the true location of the Battle of Bosworth.
If you like period drama, you will love… History Film Club Podcast
Finally – a club I want to be a member of! In History Film Club award-winning screenwriters, consultants, and historians Alex von Tunzelmann and Hannah Grieg delve deep into historical films. In each episode they talk to an expert about their loves, their hates, and about whether they have what it takes to be a member of the History Film Club. This podcast only started at the very end of December 2020 so I can’t wait to see what comes next!
Fave episode so far – Lizzy Talbot – Bridgerton’s Sex Scenes. After my recent guest post about smash period drama Bridgerton, its no surprise I picked this episode! Hosts Alex and Hannah talk to Lizzy Talbot, Bridgerton’s Intimacy Director about how sex scenes are managed in period dramas, what sort of sex people had in the past, and who the best Sean Bean characters are.
P.S. If you like History Film Club, I suggest you also check out fellow history podcast Petticoats and Poppies: History Girls At The Movies which is a long standing favourite of mine.
If you like fashion history, you will love… The Costumiers Podcast
A very recent discovery of mine, The Costumiers explores the world of costume; including film, historical dress, the arts industry, fashion and live performance. Episodes cover a range of topics associated with costume – so it sounds perfect if you are big fans of existing history podcasts like Dressed and Dress Fancy.
Fave episode – Episode 2: The Masquerade. Okay, so there’s only been two episodes so far, but I did genuinely enjoy this episode that explored the act of disguise across various art forms. And I think there’s no denying masks are a very topical subject at present!
If you like art history, you will love… Art and Stuff Podcast
If you are a regular reader of my blog, you will know I love a good museum podcast. Art and Stuff is the new podcast from Art Fund. Every episode takes a closer look at some of the most fascinating stuff inside museums in Britain. From bits of buried treasure to iconic portraits to outlandish furniture, what do these things say about us?
Fave episode – The Wynnstay Organ. As a Welsh history aficionado, I simply had to choose this episode exploring the colourful history of the Wynnstay Organ, part of the collection at National Museum Wales in Cardiff.
P.S. If you like Art and Stuff, then I suggest you also check out Things In Jars podcast and Past Matters podcast when you have a spare minute. They’re both great history podcasts looking at museum artefacts in different ways.
So which new history podcast for 2021 will you be listening to? Let us know in the comments below – or tell us all about a different new history podcast you are loving at the moment.
Like this post? Then don’t forget to check out my other posts about history podcasts.