Journey Through Britain's History
Please come along as we explore the fascinating epochs of Britain’s history. Whether captivated by the grandeur of medieval cathedrals or the transformative eras of the Tudors and Stuarts, we provide a comprehensive look into the past. Dive into the stories that have shaped a nation and find inspiration in the timeless elegance of English history. Navigate through our sections to find the period that most intrigues you. Entertablement Abroad is delighted to be your guide through an inspired exploration of history.
Castles and Stately Homes
No tour of England would be complete without a look at the castles and stately homes for which England is so well known. Here are links to a few, with more coming in the months ahead.
A Very Cotswold Christmas: Burford, Breakfast, and the Blessings of Country Life
There’s something delightfully unhurried about the rural British approach to the festive season. While city lights dazzle and department stores pulse with urgency, in the countryside, Christmas arrives by way of gardens, greenhouses, and the smell of mulled cider. On...
Lincoln Castle—Justice, Silence, and the Architecture of Control
Set high on the hill beside the Cathedral, Lincoln Castle has always loomed large—both literally and symbolically. , On a recent visit with my husband, Glenn, and our youngest daughter, Lauren, as we wandered its stone walls and peered into the prison cells, I...
What I Didn’t Know at Exeter—And What’s Next for Entertablement Abroad
Forty-two cathedrals, ten years, and one curious Canadian I didn't set out to build a catalogue of cathedrals. Or stately homes. Or rebellious reformers. Or ecclesiastical power plays. I just liked beautiful places. It began with a trip to Devon and a visit to Exeter...
Swiss Cottage: Queen Victoria & Prince Albert’s Vision for Self-Sufficient Royals
While Osborne House dazzles with its grand Italianate design, Swiss Cottage tells a different story—one of practicality, education, and industriousness. Nestled in the estate's grounds, this charming alpine-style cottage was more than a playhouse; it was a classroom...
Houghton Hall: A Masterpiece of Palladian Splendour
Nestled in the rolling countryside of Norfolk, Houghton Hall is a testament to the grandeur of 18th-century Palladian architecture. It’s easy to be dazzled by the symmetry, the scale, and the sheer elegance of it all. But behind every arch and column lies a mind—and a...
Osborne House & Gardens: Queen Victoria’s Private Retreat
Tucked away on the Isle of Wight, Osborne House was more than just a royal residence—it was Queen Victoria's sanctuary. Built between 1845 and 1851, the estate became the private retreat where Victoria and Prince Albert could escape the rigours of court life and enjoy...
Exploring the Past Through Place, Power, and Progress
Entertablement Abroad weaves together three lenses—Living Ideas, Themes in History, and The Hidden Framework—to tell a richer story of the world we’ve inherited. Together, they reveal how ideals shaped interiors, how politics and philosophy left their marks on architecture, and how unseen innovations made it all possible. From the nursery to the aqueduct, from a drawing room debate to a transatlantic telegraph, these stories illuminate the deep connections between how we lived, what we believed, and what we built.
The Castle That Contained a King—Lincoln and The Anarchy
It was quiet the day we visited Lincoln Castle. The sun bounced off the high curtain walls, the grass
Magna Carta and the Making of a Nation—Lincoln’s Legacy of Liberty
There’s something thrillingly unassuming about Lincoln’s copy of the Magna Carta. For such an iconic document, it’s not much
Medieval Justice — Blood, Faith, and Sovereignty
In medieval England, justice was more than a legal process—it was a performance of power. Punishment often took place
Power, Principles & the Trouble With Legacy
Henry II and Simon de Montfort Walk Into a Parliament… You know what’s tricky about history? The people who
Osborne & Chatsworth: Childhood, Empire, and the Architecture of Intimacy
Where Villandry and Cheverny reflected the Enlightenment’s faith in reason and domestic refinement, Osborne House and Chatsworth embody a
What Was The Enlightenment?
It’s hard to imagine now, but not too long ago, doubting religious orthodoxy could get you killed. In 1697,
Villandry & Cheverny—Enlightenment in Stone and Silk
Of all the stunning châteaux in the Loire Valley, two stand as architectural marvels and case studies in Enlightenment
The Castle That Contained a King—Lincoln and The Anarchy
It was quiet the day we visited Lincoln Castle. The sun bounced off the high curtain walls, the grass
Magna Carta and the Making of a Nation—Lincoln’s Legacy of Liberty
There’s something thrillingly unassuming about Lincoln’s copy of the Magna Carta. For such an iconic document, it’s not much
Medieval Justice — Blood, Faith, and Sovereignty
In medieval England, justice was more than a legal process—it was a performance of power. Punishment often took place
Power, Principles & the Trouble With Legacy
Henry II and Simon de Montfort Walk Into a Parliament… You know what’s tricky about history? The people who
Osborne & Chatsworth: Childhood, Empire, and the Architecture of Intimacy
Where Villandry and Cheverny reflected the Enlightenment’s faith in reason and domestic refinement, Osborne House and Chatsworth embody a
What Was The Enlightenment?
It’s hard to imagine now, but not too long ago, doubting religious orthodoxy could get you killed. In 1697,
Villandry & Cheverny—Enlightenment in Stone and Silk
Of all the stunning châteaux in the Loire Valley, two stand as architectural marvels and case studies in Enlightenment
War & Peace
Trace the evolution of English history through this summary of Britain’s most history-changing events and milestones.
1066
Battle of Hastings
The Norman Conquest begins, reshaping the English landscape and governance.
1215
Signing of the Magna Carta
A pivotal moment in constitutional history, influencing legal systems worldwide.
1534
English Reformation
Henry VIII’s break from the Catholic Church, leading to profound religious and cultural changes.
1666
Great Fire of London
A devastating fire that led to the rebuilding of the city with innovative architectural designs.
1837
Victorian Era Begins
An era of industrial revolution and architectural grandeur, marked by the reign of Queen Victoria.
1939
World War II
Significant destruction and subsequent rebuilding efforts that shaped modern England.
Fascinating People
Britain’s history has been shaped by remarkable figures—some born to royalty, some to privilege, others rising from obscurity. As rulers, politicians, scientists, industrialists, and explorers, they defined their eras and helped shape the world we know today. Here, we celebrate their stories.
Oliver Cromwell—God’s Soldier and England’s Unlikely Despot
Let’s start with the backdrop: the English Civil War (1642–1651), a brutal and bewildering conflict that split families and
Simon de Montfort: Parliamentarian, Powerbroker, Martyr?
To challenge a king, he needed a vision. To rule like one, he needed ambition. Let’s talk about Simon
Henry II: Empire Builder, Lawgiver, Betrayed King
He built a kingdom on law and loyalty—then watched both fail him. If you’re looking for a medieval king
Thomas à Becket (c. 1119–1170): Saint, Schemer, or Something in Between?
He wore the mitre like a crown—and took his martyrdom like a coronation. Let’s talk about Thomas à Becket,
James Gibbs (1682–1754): A Master of English Baroque and Palladianism
James Gibbs was one of the most influential architects of 18th-century Britain, known for his ability to blend Baroque
Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown (1716–1783)
Lancelot “Capability” Brown is one of the most influential landscape designers in British history, often called “England’s greatest gardener.”
Oliver Cromwell—God’s Soldier and England’s Unlikely Despot
Let’s start with the backdrop: the English Civil War (1642–1651), a brutal and bewildering conflict that split families and
Simon de Montfort: Parliamentarian, Powerbroker, Martyr?
To challenge a king, he needed a vision. To rule like one, he needed ambition. Let’s talk about Simon
Henry II: Empire Builder, Lawgiver, Betrayed King
He built a kingdom on law and loyalty—then watched both fail him. If you’re looking for a medieval king
Thomas à Becket (c. 1119–1170): Saint, Schemer, or Something in Between?
He wore the mitre like a crown—and took his martyrdom like a coronation. Let’s talk about Thomas à Becket,
James Gibbs (1682–1754): A Master of English Baroque and Palladianism
James Gibbs was one of the most influential architects of 18th-century Britain, known for his ability to blend Baroque
Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown (1716–1783)
Lancelot “Capability” Brown is one of the most influential landscape designers in British history, often called “England’s greatest gardener.”
Exploring Britain's Eras
The Cathedral Project
A visual, mapped and narrated tour through England’s most storied cathedrals, each with its own spectacular architecture and all with fascinating stories to tell. We’ve provided 4 different paths to choose from. Happy Journey!
Cathedral Stories
Learn about Britain’s history by exploring any or all 43 cathedrals, presented in alphbetical order for easy browsing.
Cathedral Timeline
Through the lens of a cathedral timeline, you will see how world-changing history unfolded over centuries
Cathedral Map
Should you wish to visit the cathedrals, we’ve provided a map for each location, useful for in person or virtual explorations.
Cathedral Tapestry
England’s Anglican cathedrals are shaped by the nation’s history—built on power, faith, and artistic ambition. From medieval pilgrimage to Reformation upheavals and modern preservation, they reflect shifting political, economic, and social tides. Each tells its own story, yet together, they weave the fabric of England’s identity.