English Connection

England on Screen: Iconic Filming Locations & Their Real Stories

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "English Connection" Show, historian, tour guide, and Norfolk Tours owner Glynn Burrows takes us behind the scenes of England’s most iconic filming locations. From historic estates and ancient cities to modern studio sets, discover how British film and television bring history to life while preserving and showcasing the nation’s rich cultural heritage. The conversation explores the magic behind productions like "Downton Abbey" and "Harry Potter," revealing how real locations and carefully crafted sets work together to create immersive storytelling. Along the way, Glynn shares insights into England’s historic sites, architectural beauty, and even the surprising legacy of Roman engineering that still influences modern infrastructure today. Whether you're a film buff, history lover, or traveler seeking meaningful experiences, this episode highlights how screen storytelling inspires tourism, supports preservation, and connects audiences to England’s past and present. 🔗 Read Glynn’s article: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/lights-camera-england [https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/lights-camera-england]  📖 Explore Glynn’s digital magazine:  https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/English-Connection/ [https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/English-Connection/]  🎧 Listen to more English Connection episodes: https://english-connection.podbean.com/ [https://english-connection.podbean.com/]  🌐 Visit English Connection: https://www.EnglishConnection.uk [https://www.EnglishConnection.uk]

Trailblazers: Five Women Who Changed England

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "English Connection" Show, historian, tour guide, and Norfolk Tours owner Glynn Burrows explores the lives and legacies of remarkable women who helped shape England and the world.  From beloved authors Jane Austen and Beatrix Potter to social reformer Elizabeth Fry, nursing pioneer Florence Nightingale, and suffragette leader Emmeline Pankhurst, this inspiring conversation highlights the lasting impact of women’s contributions to society, culture, and human rights. Discover how these trailblazing women influenced everything from land conservation and responsible tourism to prison reform, healthcare, and the fight for women’s voting rights. Along the way, Glynn shares insights into the historic places connected to their stories, offering meaningful ways travelers can engage with England’s rich heritage through a deeper understanding of its past. 🔗 Read Glynn’s article: https://bigblendmedia.substack.com/p/women-who-changed-england [https://bigblendmedia.substack.com/p/women-who-changed-england]    🌐 Visit the English Connection website for more about Glynn's custom tours, family history services, and to follow the podcast and his digital magazine: https://www.EnglishConnection.uk [https://www.EnglishConnection.uk]  This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s Way Back When, Big Daily Blend, Vacation Station, and Women Making History  podcast channels: Explore the network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork [https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork]

Springtime in England: Gardens, Farms & Countryside Escapes

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "English Connection" Podcast, historian and custom tour guide Glynn Burrows invites you to explore the enchanting world of England’s gardens, farms, and countryside. From iconic roses and fragrant spring blooms to historic estates and sustainable gardening practices, this engaging conversation reveals why England is a true paradise for garden lovers and slow travelers alike. Along the way, Glynn shares insights on garden design traditions, wildlife conservation, farm-to-table experiences, and the cultural and spiritual connections people have with green spaces across the English landscape. Whether you’re planning a spring getaway, love botanical gardens, or simply enjoy armchair travel, this episode offers inspiration and practical insights for experiencing England’s natural beauty. 🔗 Read Glynn’s article: https://vacationstationtravel.substack.com/p/springtime-in-england [https://vacationstationtravel.substack.com/p/springtime-in-england]  📖 Explore his digital magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/English-Connection/#p=1 [https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/English-Connection/#p=1]  🎧 Follow the English Connection podcast (airs every 4th Saturday): https://english-connection.podbean.com/ [https://english-connection.podbean.com/]  This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Vacation Station," "Garden Gossip" and "Big Daily Blend" podcast channels.👉 Explore the network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork [https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork]

Exploring England's Historic Colleges & Universities

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s "English Connection" Podcast explores the enduring power of education through England’s ancient colleges and universities—places where history, culture, libraries, and global connections intersect. Historian, tour guide, and Norfolk Tours owner Glynn Burrows reflects on how universities have long served as centers of learning, inspiration, and cultural exchange, shaping societies far beyond their walls. The conversation highlights how historic universities preserve knowledge through libraries and archives, support genealogy and family history research, and foster lifelong learning across generations. From public lectures and community events to gardens, architecture, and centuries-old traditions, these academic institutions are revealed as living heritage sites—places to visit, explore, and experience firsthand. The episode also examines access to education around the world, the social fabric of university life, and the value of experiential learning, showing how education connects people globally while remaining deeply rooted in local history. Whether viewed through the lens of scholarship, travel, or cultural curiosity, England’s ancient colleges continue to inspire discovery, reflection, and connection. 🔗 Read Glynn’s accompanying article on Substack: https://bigblendmedia.substack.com/p/the-halls-of-heritage  [https://bigblendmedia.substack.com/p/the-halls-of-heritage]  🔗NEW! Check out Big Blend Radio's ENGLISH CONNECTION Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/English-Connection/ [https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/English-Connection/]    🔗This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Big Daily Blend," "Way Back When," and "Vacation Station" podcast channels. Explore the network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork [https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork]

Designing England: Architects and Architecture Through The Ages

From Roman forts and villas to Gothic cathedrals and the visionary works of architects like Inigo Jones, Sir Christopher Wren, and George Skipper, this episode of Big Blend Radio's "English Connection" Podcast with Glynn Burrows explores the evolution of architecture in England and what it reveals about wealth, power, craftsmanship, and society. Through a thoughtful conversation on design, functionality, and opulence, we examine how architectural styles reflected social status, how many builders and artisans went uncredited, and how architects eventually emerged as cultural figures shaping England’s landscape. The discussion also raises deeper questions about legacy, meaning, and how future architecture may move toward more sustainable and purposeful design. Read Glynn’s full article: https://bigblendarts.substack.com/p/designing-england [https://bigblendarts.substack.com/p/designing-england]  Learn more about Glynn & book a custom tour: Norfolk Tours: https://norfolk-tours.co.uk/ [https://norfolk-tours.co.uk/]  Listen to Glynn’s monthly podcast (airs every 4th Saturday): English Connection Podcast: https://english-connection.podbean.com/ [https://english-connection.podbean.com/]  🎙️ This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Toast to The Arts" and "Way Back When" podcast channels. Explore the network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork [https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork]