History

The rich tapestry of Britain’s history is full of fascinating characters, imposing castles and literary heroes. From the Battle of Hastings in 1066 to the Battle of Britain, the Tudor period to the Victorian era, Shakespeare to Dickens, Britain has a unique heritage like no other. Much of this historical treasure trove has been preserved to inspire us today.

Who was Charles II? Why was he called the ‘Merry Monarch’?

Charles II ran a hedonistic court, despite the early years of his reign being marred by the bubonic plague and Great Fire of London. He reigned from 1660-1685

Oliver Cromwell painting

Who was Oliver Cromwell? What was his role in the English Civil War?

Oliver Cromwell sided with the Roundheads during the English Civil War and became a leader of the New Model Army. He ruled from 1653 to 1658

Mary Queen of Scots

Who was Mary, Queen of Scots? Why was she imprisoned?

Mary Stuart became queen of the Scots when she was six days old, was widowed at 18 and was executed aged 44. She ruled from 1542 to 1567 

Cherry Garden, Ham House, Richmond, London’s stately homes

London’s stately homes: Kenwood, Chiswick and Ham House

Better known for its royal palaces, London also boasts some great houses that provide a glimpse into the city’s aristocratic past. Here are some of the most magnificent of London’s stately homes

A statue of Robert the Bruce outside Bannockburn Heritage Centre in Stirling, Scotland

Who was Robert the Bruce? Who did he murder?

Robert I of Scotland murdered his rival, attacked English occupiers and eventually negotiated peace talks. He ruled from 1306 to 1329

Queen Victoria’s bedroom, Arundel castle, West Sussex, British castles, castle interiors, Victorians

Exclusive: Stunning photos of Arundel Castle

Take a look at these beautiful photos of Arundel Castle, which show the true majesty of the West Sussex castle in its 950th year

Tudor John Knox | Scottish reformer, minister, preacher and writer

Tudor John Knox: Scottish minister, writer and leader of the Reformation

This month Melita Thomas of Tudor Times explores the life and times of Tudor John Knox, a Scottish firebrand who lived through during the reigns of King Henry VIII, Edward VI, Bloody Mary and Queen…

Queen Victoria's Garden terrace Osborne House, Isle of Wight

Queen Victoria’s secret garden terrace opens to the public

A garden terrace where Queen Victoria sat and painted watercolours at her Isle of Wight home, Osborne House, is opening to the public

BRITAIN magazine

Castles you can stay in: book a room in a British castle

From dungeons and haunted turrets to four-poster beds and glorious spas, a stay in one of Britain’s castles is a magical and mysterious experience.

King Canute trying to turn back the tide. Credit: The Print Collector/Alamy

Kings and Queens: Canute the Great 1016-1035

King Canute invited and conquered much of England – and didn’t really believe he could control the tides