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.
The Battle of Culloden, Jacobite rebellions, Scottish history. Credit: The Print Collector/Alamy

The 300th anniversary of the Jacobite Rebellions

In the 300th anniversary year of the first of the Jacobite Rebellions, here are three ways to mark this important moment in Scottish history.

Duchess of Rutland, Belvoir Castle, Leicestershire

Behind the scenes at Britain’s grand stately homes

We talk to the duchesses who run Belvoir Castle, Inveraray Castle, Alnwick Castle and Woburn Abbey about the realities of running a stately home in the 21st century.

Agatha Christie

Agatha Christie Festival celebrates queen of crime

Hundreds of events lined up in Torquay to honour the life, literature and legacy of Britain’s much-loved writer.

View newsreel of key moments in British history

A million minutes of digitised film – the largest collection of news footage to date – has been added to YouTube to create a historical treasure trove.

First World War warship HMS M.33 opens to public

A small ship with a big history, this unique warship will offer a taste of the ill-fated Gallipoli with an immersive battle experience.

Secrets and mysteries of historic homes inspire tales

Ten writers rose to the challenge of weaving their imaginations around our built heritage creating some enthralling short stories.

Battle of Britain, Second World War, air show

Battle of Britain 75th Anniversary Air Show

See Spitfires scramble in living history representation of crucial Second World War aerial battle at IWM Duxford.

BFI launches Britain on Film archive

Thousands of unseen videos dating back as far as 1902 offer a charming insight into life around Britain.

History of the Tower of London

Many of British history’s most critical moments have taken place within its wall. We pull back the curtain on the famous medieval castle’s history.

dickens, literature, victorian, britain, history

Dickens’ notes solve Victorian literary mysteries

Magazines annotated by author reveal previously anonymous work to be that of Elizabeth Gaskell and Lewis Carroll, among others.