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

🔗NEW! Check out Big Blend Radio's ENGLISH CONNECTION Podcast Magazine: 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

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

Learn more about Glynn & book a custom tour: Norfolk Tours: https://norfolk-tours.co.uk/

Listen to Glynn’s monthly podcast (airs every 4th Saturday): English Connection Podcast: 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

Join historian and UK tour guide Glynn Burrows of Norfolk Tours for a fascinating journey through the history, architecture, and cultural significance of Windsor Castle and nearby Runnymede, the birthplace of the Magna Carta. From medieval fortifications to royal traditions, Glynn explains what makes Windsor Castle such an extraordinary place to visit — and what travelers should know before they go.

He also touches on the importance of respecting historical sites, why Windsor Castle and Buckingham Palace serve very different purposes, and what makes the Magna Carta at Runnymede a cornerstone of democratic history.

Read Glynn’s full article: Windsor Castle & Runnymede: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/a-visit-to-windsor-castle-and-runnymede/

Learn more about Glynn & book a custom tour: Norfolk Tours: https://norfolk-tours.co.uk/

Listen to Glynn’s monthly podcast (airs every 4th Saturday): English Connection Podcast: https://english-connection.podbean.com/

🎙️ This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Vacation Station," "Way Back When," and "Big Daily Blend" podcast channels. Explore the network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

Airing on National Make a Difference Day, this thought-provoking episode of Big Blend Radio’s "English Connection" Show features historian and tour guide Glynn Burrows of Norfolk Tours, who explores rebellion through the ages — from Guy Fawkes and the Gunpowder Plot to Rosa Parks and the Civil Rights Movement.

Inspired by Guy Fawkes / Bonfire Night (November 5), this conversation looks at how acts of defiance — both peaceful and forceful — have challenged injustice and reshaped society. Discover the stories of Robin Hood, William Wallace, Boudicca, Martin Luther, Wat Tyler, Emily Davison, and Rosa Parks, and what their courage teaches us about freedom, equality, and the power of individuals to make a difference.

👉 Read Glynn’s companion article: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/legendary-rebels-and-rebellions/

👉 Learn more about Glynn Burrows and his tours: https://norfolk-tours.co.uk/

👉 Listen to more English Connection episodes: https://english-connection.podbean.com/

This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Big daily Blend," Way Back When," and "Rants, Raves & Rock" podcast channels. Explore the full Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

Join us on Big Blend Radio’s "English Connection" podcast, airing every 4th Saturday, as historian, tour guide, and Norfolk Tours owner Glynn Burrows shares his recent experiences in Dublin, Ireland. From visiting the Jeannie Johnston ship, which never lost a passenger during its famine voyages, to exploring the General Post Office, the site of the 1916 Easter Rising, Glynn delves into Dublin’s powerful legacy and cultural significance.

This conversation also celebrates World Tourism Day and Ancestor Appreciation Day, reflecting on how travel fosters cultural understanding and how exploring our roots deepens our connection to history. From music as a soulful storytelling tradition to the flavors that shape community identity, this episode highlights how heritage lives on in everyday experiences.

🔗 Learn more: - Read Glynn's article: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/dublin-a-short-visit-a-long-history/ - Norfolk Tours: https://norfolk-tours.co.uk/ - English Connection Podcast: https://english-connection.podbean.com/

✨ Takeaways: - Dublin is a welcoming city with a deep, layered history. - The Jeannie Johnston ship symbolizes hope, as it never lost a passenger. - The Easter Rising of 1916 reshaped Ireland’s future. - Understanding history helps us navigate the present and build unity. - Music and food serve as vital threads of cultural identity. - Exploring ancestry enriches personal and cultural understanding.

👉 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s Vacation Station, Big Daily Blend, and Way Back When podcast channels. Explore the podcasts: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

Join us on Big Blend Radio's "English Connection" Podcast with Glynn Burrows, owner of Norfolk Tours UK, as we celebrate Eat Dessert First Month and National Sponge Cake Day with a lively and nostalgic conversation with about British desserts.

From timeless classics like sponge cake, scones, trifle, puddings, carrot cake, and meringues, to the exciting wave of new desserts such as Eton Mess and other creative cakes, discover how England’s sweet traditions continue to evolve. Along the way, we highlight how historic favorites reflect culinary history while modern treats showcase changing tastes, and explore the cultural significance of bakeries, tea shops, and the beloved art of baking.

📖 Read Glynn Burrows’ companion article: Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth in England – https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/satisfy-your-sweet-tooth-in-england/

🎧 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s Big Daily Blend and Eat, Drink & Be Merry podcast channels. explore: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s “English Connection” with Glynn Burrows—historian and owner of Norfolk Tours—explores the unique charm and cultural richness of England’s small towns and villages. From quaint pubs and vibrant village greens to the culinary traditions and walking paths that connect communities, Glynn highlights how these rural areas are vital to the nation’s heritage and sustainable future. The conversation also touches on local business support, historical village names, and even graveyard etiquette, offering a thoughtful glimpse into the everyday life—and deeper legacy—of England’s countryside communities.

🎧 Glynn Burrows joins Big Blend Radio every 4th Saturday to share stories about England’s past and present, and to help listeners explore their family roots.

📍 Learn more in Glynn’s companion article: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/experience-englands-charming-villages/ 🎙 Listen to more of Glynn’s episodes: https://english-connection.podbean.com/

📌 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Vacation Station," "Big Daily Blend," and "Way Back When" channels. 🎧 Explore more shows: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

In celebration of National Rivers Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “English Connection” with Glynn Burrows—historian and owner of Norfolk Tours—dives into the fascinating history, culture, and natural charm of England’s rivers. From the iconic Thames to quiet countryside streams, Glynn shares insights on rivers as ancient boundaries, royal landmarks, and places of leisure. Hear about riverside walks, boating traditions like punting and wherry-hiring, and even a bit of wild swimming. The episode also touches on canals, environmental efforts, and the unique perspectives rivers offer travelers today.

🎧 Glynn Burrows joins Big Blend Radio every 4th Saturday to share stories about England’s past and present, and to help listeners explore their family roots.

📍 Learn more and try the companion jigsaw puzzle: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/experience-englands-rivers-and-riverways/

🎙 Listen to more of Glynn’s episodes: https://english-connection.podbean.com/

🎧 Explore more shows: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork