Culture UK
Who are the British? Do they really drink tea, eat roast beef and Yorkshire pudding and never leave home without an umbrella? Find out more about true Brits; past and present, myth and legend, fact and fiction.
The Rise of the Literary Periodical
In the aftermath of the Glorious Revolution, what has been called the emerging ‘public sphere’ saw the rise of printed pamphlets and journals catering to…
The Life and Times of Oscar Wilde
“I can resist everything except temptation.” Oscar Wilde was an Irish playwright, poet and celebrity, known for his flamboyant dress, sharp wit and scandalous love life…
The Real Dick Whittington
Many people are familiar with the folk tale of “Dick Whittington and his Cat” through pantomime versions of the story. However there really was a Sir Richard Whittington, Lord Mayor of London four times…
The Birth of the NHS
On the 5th July 1948 an historic moment occurred in British history, a culmination of a bold and pioneering plan to make healthcare no longer exclusive to those who could afford it but to make it accessible to everyone: the NHS was born.
Burghead
Burghead in Moray, Scotland celebrates New Year not once but twice: on 1st January and then on 12th January when the ‘Burning of the Clavie’ fire festival takes place…
Thomas Cook
2021 marks the 180th anniversary of Thomas Cook’s first step towards building the package holiday phenomenon. Through Thomas Cook’s belief in temperance and education he grew a travel company so all classes could enjoy the luxury of a holiday…
Chimney Sweeps and Climbing Boys
Being a chimney sweep, or climbing boy as they were often called, was a harsh and dangerous profession. Those employed were often orphans or from impoverished backgrounds, sold into the job by their parents…
Hot Air Balloons in Britain – A History
Hot air balloon building in Britain has an intriguing history. Early home-built incarnations involved silk flowers, encyclopedia editors, surgeons and an umbrella-maker…
