Extraordinary Stories of Britain

The Bow Street Runners - Law & Disorder in the 1700s

During the 1700s London was a lawless capital plagued by theft, violence and corruption. We tell the dramatic story of the Bow Street runners, Britain's first police force formed by Henry and John "the blind beak" Fielding.  Hear how they brought thieves, and pickpockets to justice, and how the runners broke up a plot to behead the prime minster and his cabinet.

Love Letters, Spies and Stolen Mail - The History of Britain’s Post

From the first Valentine’s letter to postal highway robbery, from spies to street wars and the invention of the first postage stamp, this British history podcast tells the story of how the Royal Mail evolved into a network that connected a nation.

History of Money Part 2 – Forgers, Firesticks & Financial Fiascos

Discover how war, crime and chaos shaped Britain’s money. From wooden money to lusturous gold Guineas to Isaac Newton hunting forgers, this episode reveals the stories behind Britain’s currency. The dramatic history that gave us the coins and notes still used today.

A History of Money - Coin Clippers, Con-Men and King Coppernose

The extraordinary history Britain’s money.  Where kings mutilate moneyers, coins spark riots and fortunes are made, debased, clipped and forged.  This podcast shows how money isn’t just metal — it’s about power, violence, trust, and the magic of the philosopher’s stone

The Diary of a Graverobber - London's Darkest Trade

The Diary of a Graverobber dramatises the true-life story of Joseph Naples, a London gravedigger in the early 1800s who slips into the city’s darkest trade — stealing corpses to sell to surgeons. Driven by poverty and desperation, Naples is lured into ruthless Borough Gang, only to be consumed by guilt, betrayal, and the ghosts of those he unearthed.