English Connection

Meet Glynn Burrows: Your English Connection to Family History & UK Travel

In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Getting to Know You" series, we chat with one of our longtime expert contributors, Glynn Burrows, who is an historian, genealogist, tour guide, and founder of Norfolk Tours in England. For more than 15 years, Glynn has shared stories that bring England's history, culture, genealogy, and travel experiences to life for Big Blend audiences. In this fun and personal conversation, he talks about family, travel, local communities, lifelong learning, favorite foods, the importance of supporting small businesses, and why meaningful travel is about making genuine connections with people and places. He also shares his philosophy on honesty, following your passions, and making a difference—one "starfish" at a time. You will also learn about Glynn's passion for helping travelers explore England beyond the tourist trail and reconnect with their family history through personalized heritage experiences. LEARN MORE - English Connection: https://englishconnection.uk [https://englishconnection.uk]  - Big Blend Media House: https://bigblendmediahouse.com [https://bigblendmediahouse.com]

Touring the Historic Battlefields and Skirmish Sites of Britain

As we honor and remember the fallen this Memorial Day weekend, we look at how the quiet, open landscapes of Britain hold the secrets to centuries of conflict, shifting power, and historical memory. From Roman invasions and Viking raids to the pivotal Norman Conquest of 1066, these spaces serve as a powerful link to our shared ancestry. In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "English Connection" Podcast, resident historian Glynn Burrows of Norfolk Tours explores the rich history of battle sites across England, Scotland, and Wales. Discover why so little remains visible on these open battlefields, how these sacred spaces are preserved today out of respect for those who gave the ultimate sacrifice, and why touring them offers a fantastic window into the details of local and national history.  Whether you are tracking Roman forts along Hadrian's Wall or following Harold's hasty march from Stamford Bridge to Battle, Glynn shares expert travel tips and insights for mapping out your own historical itinerary. Important Links: - Read Glynn's article: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/touring-battlefields-of-britain [https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/touring-battlefields-of-britain]  - Connect with Glynn: https://www.englishconnection.uk/ [https://www.englishconnection.uk/]  - Follow the Podcast: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/english-connection-podcast [https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/english-connection-podcast]  - Check out the Magazine: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/english-connection-magazine [https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/english-connection-magazine]

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]