Category: QUEEN VICTORIA EPISODES

EP053 ALBERT THE ROYAL MAKEOVER EDITION

In this episode I’ll delve into the fascinating world of Prince Albert, the consort to Queen Victoria. I’ll explore his significant role in transforming Buckingham Palace, his artistic endeavors, his influential involvement in redecorating the Houses of Parliament, and the controversial dismissal of Baroness Lehzen.


In the early 19th century, Buckingham Palace was in a state of disrepair. Prince Albert, however, had a grand vision for the royal residence. He saw it not only as a home for the monarchy but as a symbol of British culture and innovation.


Prince Albert’s reforms included architectural updates, the incorporation of modern amenities, and a focus on art and culture within the palace walls.


Prince Albert’s influence extended beyond Buckingham Palace. His involvement in the extensive redecoration of the Houses of Parliament left an indelible mark on the iconic building. Learn about the aesthetic choices, architectural improvements, and the political implications of Prince Albert’s contributions to the Houses of Parliament.


In a surprising turn of events, we’ll discuss the controversial decision by Prince Albert to dismiss Baroness Lehzen, Queen Victoria’s trusted governess and advisor. Uncover the reasons behind this decision, the impact it had on the royal household, and the reactions from Queen Victoria and the court. This episode will explore the political intrigues surrounding this event, and his first huge argument with the Queen, with its implications for the monarchy.


I will also take you through the birth of the unique British art scene in the early Victorian era, the importance of Raphael and Fresco’s, and the influence of William Dyce, as British art steps onto the world stage.

Thanks for joining me. I hope you’ve enjoyed it as much as I did! Don’t forget to subscribe and share the Age of Victoria Podcast with your fellow history enthusiasts. Until next time, keep exploring the past and embracing the knowledge it offers.


If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at ageofvictoriapodcast@gmail.com, follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria, visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com.

The show also has a facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria.

Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, it takes less time than making a coffee. You can also subscribe for free on most major podcast apps. To support the show on Patreon, either CLICK HERE or you can go to Patreon and search for Age of Victoria podcast or my name. Take care and bye for now.

EP052 “A PRETTY LITTLE PRINCESS”

I’m excited to take you on a journey through time today as we cover Queen Victoria’s first pregnancy & child. Together, we’ll delve into the intriguing world of historical events, focusing on the remarkable early reign of Queen Victoria and the dramatic affairs that unfolded during this era.

Recap 

Starting with a recap of the most significant events that the podcast has covered between 1817 and 1840. From technological advancements to political revolutions and cultural milestones, this retrospective will bring our threads together.

Queen Victoria’s First Pregnancy

Then it’s time to focus on Queen Victoria, one of the most iconic and influential monarchs in British history. We’ll explore the joyous yet challenging time of her first pregnancy. Let’s discover the emotions, expectations, and anxieties surrounding the young queen as she embarked on the path to motherhood and the implications this had for the monarchy and the nation.

The Ottoman Affair of 1840

In this segment, we’ll delve into the lesser-known but no less fascinating affair that unfolded in 1840 involving the Ottoman Empire. Join me as we unravel the intricate political maneuvers, diplomatic intricacies, and the significant impact this event had on European powers during this time, and on Queen Victoria.

 The Birth of Victoria’s First Child

Continuing our exploration of Queen Victoria’s life, let’s dive into the much-anticipated birth of her first child and I’ll shed light on the rise of Prince Albert’s political influence during Victoria’s pregnancy. As Prince Consort, Albert’s role transcended mere ceremonial duties, and he became a trusted advisor and confidant to the Queen.Conclusion

Thanks for joining me on this captivating journey through the early Victorian era and the significant events that shaped the world between 1817 and 1840. I hope you’ve enjoyed it as much as I did! Don’t forget to subscribe and share the Age of Victoria Podcast with your fellow history enthusiasts. Until next time, keep exploring the past and embracing the knowledge it offers.

If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at ageofvictoriapodcast@gmail.com, follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria, visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com. The show also has a facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria. Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, it takes less time than making a coffee. You can also subscribe for free on most major podcast apps. To support the show on Patreon, either CLICK HERE or you can go to Patreon and search for Age of Victoria podcast or my name. Take care and bye for now.

CHRISTMAS SPECIAL 2021 – TICKLING THE CHRISTMAS IVORY

What could be more of a traditional Victorian Christmas than carols by candlelight with an orchestra, piano and harp? Quite a bit actually. Victorian piano’s were a late addition and the carols were a really new thing. Find out how carols and piano’s go together like new age German synth and wannabe edgy 20 somethings.

This episode covers.

  • Intro & reviews.
  • The Victorian carols hitlist.
  • Good King thingy and the famous Reverend Doctor Neale.
  • Queen Victoria’s rather gaudy piano.
  • The Victorian piano market.
  • A quick note about the class system.
  • Industrialisation & piano’s.
  • So what should I use for a Victorian Carol Concert?
  • A nice little story.

Golden C18th Style Grand Piano, made by French firm S & P Erard, it was gilded and painted by the miniature painter François Théodore Rochard.

If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at ageofvictoriapodcast@gmail.com, follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria, visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com. The show also has a facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria. Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, it takes less time than making a coffee. You can also subscribe for free on most major podcast apps. To support the show on Patreon, either CLICK HERE you can go to Patreon and search for Age of Victoria podcast or my name. Take care and bye for now.

EP042 EARLY DAYS OF A ROYAL MARRIAGE

Marriage isn’t easy, even in the early days, especially a royal marriage. It’s even harder if you are an intellectual who dabbles in cutting edge music, but your wife only thinks of you as a sex object. It wasn’t easy being Albert. Victoria had a lot of on her plate too, what with being a new Queen, starting her journey to Empress, and that pesky pregnancy. Oh and saving the political system of the U.K.

  • Intro & reviews.
  • Albert & the music.
  • Beethoven.
  • The invention of the neutrality of the crown.
  • Corruption, reform & sexual politics.
  • A woman’s role as queen.
  • India sounds interesting.
  • Good governance.
  • Pregnancy & child birth.
  • A might have been.

If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at ageofvictoriapodcast@gmail.com, follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria, visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com. The show also has a facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria. Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, it takes less time than making a coffee. You can also subscribe for free on most major podcast apps. To support the show on Patreon, either CLICK HERE you can go to Patreon and search for Age of Victoria podcast or my name. Take care and bye for now.

EP031 VICTORIA & ALBERT – A ROMANTIC PRINCE & A WEDDING

How does the Queen of Kingdom and ruler of the Empire choose a husband? This is not a choice to get wrong, so Victoria was under pressure. Was Albert the Romantic Prince and perfect companion of her dreams? Learn about the Prince, his childhood, his music, & his journey from shy intellectual to confident suitor to the Queen.

This show covers

  • Prince Alberts childhood & family scandals.

  • The close relationship between Germany & Britain.

  • The German Romantic movement.

  • Did they really fall in love?

  • Albert had groove.
  • A royal proposal & Lord M’s advice for marriage.

  • What, a German? Tory opposition and financial constraints.

  • Preparing for the wedding.

  • The Bride Wore White.

  • A very, very successful wedding night.

Thanks for your listening. I hope you enjoy. If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at ageofvictoriapodcast@gmail.com, follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria, visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com. The show also has a facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria. Don’t forget to leave a review on iTunes, it takes less time than making a coffee. If you want to support the show on patreon, just click here, or you can go to Patreon and search for age of victoria podcast or my name.

EP030 QUEEN VICTORIA’S NO GOOD, VERY BAD YEAR

How was Victoria coping with being Queen? She was intelligent, stubborn, cultured, but sometimes misguided and blinkered. Worse, the nation itself seemed fractured, bitter, and in danger of collapse. Her first two years as monarch showed the need for her to have a partner. Someone who could share the load, act as a lightning rod and shield on shoulder, and make the transition from partisan Queen to Monarch for the whole nation. There were some dangerous rocks in the waters and Victoria would have to learn to tread carefully as she made her steps on the journey to being the monarch that united the nation.

This show covers

  • Reviews and thank you’s

  • Lord Melbourne – brief biography

  • Introduce Sir Robert Peel

  • Situation of UK/Empire in 1830’s.

  • Chartism.

  • Lady Flora Hastings

  • Affair of the Bedchamber

  • Resolution

  • Victoria’s mental/physical state.

  • How Prince Albert helped.

Follow the show on Facebook on our Facebook Page or in the Facebook group for Victorian trivia or the latest news.

You can listen on iTunes, Apple Podcasts and subscribe for free to get all the latest episodes, or even leave me a review. The show is also on Spotify, Stitcher, Podbean. Don’t forget to tell your friends.

Support the show on Patreon, and get exclusive patrons only episodes plus other goodies.

3RD ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL VICTORIA & ALBERT – A ROYAL, AND A ROMANTIC

EP030 3rd Anniversary Special: Victoria & Albert -a Royal and a Romantic.

The podcast is 3 years old, so time for Victoria and Albert to become a couple. One of histories famous romances and two names that almost define the age. Yet it was a strange road that brought them together. In this show we look at Queen Victoria’s tricky love life, the problems of being a royal celebrity, meet some of Prince Alberts competition, and learn how they finally came to meet. But was it love at first sight?

Gallery of Romanticism Key Works

This show covers

  • Reviews and thank you’s for 3 years

  • The importance of the German Romantic movement.

  • The problems of a royal marriage.

  • A woman? As Queen? What would the Bible say?

  • Immaturity and dynastic tangles.

  • Stalking Victoria.

  • Enter Prince Albert, stage right.

  • Duke Alex, boxes of bling, and heartbreak.

Follow the show on Facebook on our Facebook Page or in the Facebook group for Victorian trivia or the latest news.

You can listen on Apple Podcasts and subscribe for free to get all the latest episodes, or even leave me a review. The show is also on Spotify, Stitcher, Podbean – basically all your favourite podcatching platforms. Don’t forget to tell your friends.

Support the show on Patreon, and get exclusive patrons only episodes plus other goodies.

EP024 VICTORIA; CRISIS & THE CROWN

The time has come. Victoria must weather the final crisis on her way to the throne. Join me for an exciting conclusion to Victoria’s childhood where she finds out if she has iron in her soul.

This show has

  • Continuation of her teenage years.

  • Relationships with King William IV.

  • The state of the monarchy.

  • Victoria’s desperate crisis.

  • Ascending the throne.

  • Coronation and triumph.

Follow the show on Facebook on our Facebook Page or in the Facebook group for Victorian trivia or the latest news.

You can listen on iTunes and subscribe for free to get all the latest episodes, or even leave me a review. The show is also on Spotify, Stitcher, Podbean and you can also listen via the website at ageofvictoriapodcast.com. Don’t forget to tell your friends.

Support the show on Patreon, and get an exclusive patrons only episode

EP022 Politics – The Tories & the battle for Catholic Emancipation

This episode on the Tories & the Battle for Catholic Emancipation continue our breakdown of the complex political system in the 1820’s & 1830’s to show you how it all fits together. If you want to know about the reasons why the British struggled with Catholics, and why the Tories always seemed to be fighting against reform, then this is the episode for you.

This episode covers

The state of politics in 1820-1830

The definitions of a political party

Famous figures of the Tory old guard

The death of Castlereagh and the rise of the Duke of Wellington

The problem of Catholics & the Crown

Our old frenemy the Prince Regent/George IV makes a cameo

The battle over the Catholic Emancipation

The personal impact on the Young Victoria.

Follow the show on Facebook on our Facebook Page or in the Facebook group for Victorian trivia or the latest news.

You can listen on iTunes and subscribe for free to get all the latest episodes, or even leave me a review. The show is also on Spotify, Stitcher, Podbean and you can also listen via the website at ageofvictoriapodcast.com. Don’t forget to tell your friends.

MINISODE 014 FILM REVIEW “VICTORIA THE GREAT”

I’ve launched a Patreon and I review our first film about Queen Victoria – Victoria the Great. I also read out the latest iTunes reviews. 

The show starts with the announcement about Patreon and the various tiers. Then I remind listeners to send in questions for the upcoming 2nd anniversary special. The middle of the show is a run down of how I will do film/TV series/book reviews and an evaluation of whether historical accuracy is important. This is followed by a short review of Victoria the Great. Finally there’s the run through of listener reviews. 

Love to hear your feed back at ageofvictoriapodcast@gmail.com or leave a comment in the Facebook Page or Group (Age of Victoria).

If you like what you hear, please tell your friends, tweet or spread the word to people who might enjoy the show. Also support the show on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/user?u=19744898

EP020 PT2 WHY EDUCATE A QUEEN & WHAT SHE LEARNT

In Ep20 pt 2 we continue our journey through Queen Victoria’s childhood education. Pt2 explores the specifics of education, what she learnt, and crucially, how her education would fit her into the increasingly strict and complex Victorian class system. It wasn’t easy being “the girl who will be Queen.” It also covers her relationship with her ally and mentor Uncle Leopold, King of Belgium.

If you have any questions/feedback, you can email me at ageofvictoriapodcast@gmail.com

Support the show on Patreon

EP020(pt1) Why educate a Queen?

In Ep20 pt 1 we continue our journey through Queen Victoria’s childhood. In this 2 part show you will see how Victoria was educated; as a child, but also as a future Queen. She joined an elite group of people who could read and write, but she had a huge weight of expectation to live up to.

Ep20 pt1 explores the philosophy of education to see why a Queen needed to be educated. It sets her education in the context of the 1820’s/1830’s and compares it to the experience of regular children. It also covers how this fitted in with the arrival of Victoria’s governess, and long term ally, Louise Lehzen. It wasn’t easy to educate a queen, but then again education was a rare thing.

If you have any questions/feedback, you can email me at ageofvictoriapodcast@gmail.com

EP019 Queen Victoria’s childhood pt1 “Life can be fragile”

Join your host Chris Fernandez-Packham for the first part of our series on Queen Victoria’s childhood. She was growing up at a time when life was fragile at best for children; between disease, poverty and murder, reaching adulthood was not guaranteed. Victoria had to face, an uncle who wanted to usurp the throne, a power hungry mother, and a corrupt household advisor called Sir John Conroy who hungered for money and power…..

Love to hear your feed back at ageofvictoriapodcast@gmail.com or leave a comment in the Facebook Group (Age of Victoria).

If you like what you hear, please tell your friends, tweet or spread the word to people who might enjoy the show. 

EP018 Early days

Join your host Chris Fernandez-Packham and discover how Victoria is dealt the first tragedy in her life. Learn about the perils and power of being a Duchess. Plus we meet the abusive and magnetic John Conroy, a man of ambition and secrets. We also witness the death of a King and Victoria’s slow, unlikely, but inevitable climb towards the throne. But before she got there, she would have to survive the abusive Kensington system and learn that trust is a dangerous luxury for royalty.

Love to hear your feed back at ageofvictoriapodcast@gmail.com or leave a comment in the Facebook Page orGroup (Age of Victoria).

If you like what you hear, please tell your friends, tweet or spread the word to people who might enjoy the show. 

EP017 A Queen (Victoria) is born

We meet Queen Victoria at last.

This episode covers George III, the Prince Regent, the royal family tree, the succession, the death of Princess Charlotte, Victoria’s parents – The Duke & Duchess of Kent, her birth and finally her Christening & the origins of her name. There’s a fully transcript for the episode HERE

Love to hear from you at

ageofvictoriapodcast@gmail.com or at the Facebook page/group or on Twitter. If you like the show, subscribe for free, and tell your friends.