Show Notes
The day that changed English history forever has dawned.
In this episode of English Heritage’s special 1066 series, host Amy Matthews looks at the Battle of Hastings as it happened, using established facts and some creative speculation.
Joining her are Roy Porter, Senior Curator of Properties at English Heritage, and Professor Tom Licence, Professor of Medieval History and Literature at the University of East Anglia and author of Harold: Warrior King.
Together, they unpack fresh research to separate myth from reality and explore the chaotic rumours and turning points that nearly tipped the scales in either direction as the day progressed. And with such different fighting styles and armies, was William's triumph was down to tactical genius or simple good luck? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
More from The English Heritage Podcast
Following our look at the Bayeux Tapestry in Episode 1, host Amy Matthews explores the dramatic events leading up to the Battle of Hastings. Joining her are regular guest Roy Porter (Senior Curator of Properties at English Heritage) and Dr Rebecca Tyson (expert in 11th-century maritime history at the University of Bristol).
From Long Meg and her Daughters to the Devil’s Arrows to Hetty Pegler’s Tump, the British Isles is dotted with ancient places with curious names. But who came up with those titles and what inspired them?
Welcome to the first episode of our brand-new, seven-part English Heritage Podcast video series exploring the historic events of 1066.
In this episode, host Amy Matthews is joined by Kevin Booth, English Heritage’s Head Curator of Collections, and Professor Caroline Wilkinson, Director of Face Lab at Liverpool John Moores University. Together, they explore how forensic science created a lifelike facial depiction of "Conquest Man" found buried at St Peter’s Church in Barton-upon-Humber around 50 years ago and known archaeologically as skeleton SK1863.
The English Heritage Podcast goes live! Host Amy Matthews records in front of a live audience at Audley End House during the 2026 Gardeners’ World Autumn Fair.