Best Britains Finest Podcasts (2025)

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Atlantic War: The Happy Time (Part 3) 40:43

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24h ago40:43

40:43

Why was this period known as 'The Happy Time' for Germany's U-Boats? How much merchant tonnage did the Allies lose to Nazi U-Boat aces? Has the impact of U-Boats on the Allied war effort been overstated in history since 1945? Join James Holland and Al Murray for part 3 of this deep dive on the war in the Atlantic, the most vital theatre of war in W…

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War Under The Waves 14:54

3m ago14:54

14:54

How did submariners survive for weeks at a time at sea on patrol? Were there any perks to joining the submarine service? Why did so many submariners in WW2 have bad breath? Listen to this exclusive extract from James M Scott and Roger Moorhouse's talk from this year's We Have Ways Festival on life in the submarines of the Imperial Japanese Navy and…

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Atlantic War: Norwegian Interlude (Part 2) 51:49

6d ago51:49

51:49

Why was Norway attacked in WW2? Why might the Norwegian Campaign be considered a success at sea for the Allies? What was the result of The Fall Of Norway and France for Britain and its naval strategy? Join James Holland and Al Murray for part 2 of this deep dive on the war in the Atlantic, the most vital theatre of war in WW2 and the long-running c…

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Atlantic War: No Phoney War At Sea (Part 1) 57:47

8d ago57:47

57:47

Why is the battle of the Atlantic so crucial to the Allied war effort in WW2? How did Prien manage to sink Royal Oak in Scapa Flow? When did the civilian passenger liner Athenia get attacked by U-Boats? Join James Holland and Al Murray for part 1 of this deep dive on the war in the Atlantic, the most vital theatre of war in WW2 and the long-running…

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161 - The Power of Compost & Homegrown Pantry Staples 23:24

1h ago23:24

23:24

In this episode of the Kitchen Garden Magazine Podcast, we dive deep into the rich, fertile world of compost with no-dig gardening expert Charles Dowding. Discover why compost is the cornerstone of a productive vegetable plot, the different types available, and how to avoid common pitfalls when buying or making your own. Plus, gardening guru Rob Sm…

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The Siege Of Malta: Operation Pedestal (Part 6) 52:28

13d ago52:28

52:28

Why is Operation Pedestal such an important event in WW2? How many ships in the convoy were sunk by Axis forces? What happened to the tanker, the Ohio? Join James Holland and Al Murray for part 6 of this thrilling series on the siege of Malta, and how the very course of WW2 depended on the defence of this small island in the Mediterranean. Start yo…

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The Siege Of Malta: Starving (Part 5) 48:30

15d ago48:30

48:30

When did Lord Gort and Sir Keith Park arrive on Fortress Malta? How many calories did people on Malta have each day for survival? What made George Screwball Beurling such a talented fighter ace? Join James Holland and Al Murray for part 5 of this thrilling series on the siege of Malta, and how the very course of WW2 depended on the defence of this …

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The Siege Of Malta: The Most Bombed Place On Earth (Part 4) 47:44

20d ago47:44

47:44

Why did King George VI award Malta the George Cross? How did the 'Target Date' of starvation and surrender affect morale on the island? Were the Anti-Aircraft defences enough to blunt Kesselring's blitz on the island? Join James Holland and Al Murray for part 4 of this thrilling series on the siege of Malta, and how the very course of WW2 depended …

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The Siege Of Malta: Spitfire (Part 3) 54:36

3d ago54:36

54:36

Why was the arrival of RAF Spitfires so important to Malta's defence? How did the Fall Of Singapore impact the situation in Malta? Was the British leadership on Malta incompetent? Join James Holland and Al Murray for part 3 of this thrilling series on the siege of Malta, and how the very course of WW2 depended on the defence of this small island in…

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160 - November Know-How: Garlic, Greenhouses & Garden Gold 20:29

3d ago20:29

20:29

It’s time to dig into the essential jobs for November! In this episode, we explore how to prepare your plot for winter and beyond. Learn how to sow broad beans, harvest and store root veg, protect delicate crops, and make your own gardener’s gold with leaf mold. We also take a deep dive into garlic—planting tips, overwintering advice, and the best …

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The Siege Of Malta: Britain's Submarine Ace (Part 2) 58:47

27d ago58:47

58:47

Why was Malta such a threat to Nazi plans? What made HMS Upholder the most successful British submarine of WW2? How did British submarines disrupt Axis shipping routes and invasion plans? Join James Holland and Al Murray for part 2 of this thrilling series on the siege of Malta, and how the very course of WW2 depended on the defence of this small i…

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The Siege Of Malta: Fortress Malta (Part 1) 54:13

29d ago54:13

54:13

Why was Malta attacked in WW2? Where in the world is Malta? How did the British fail to build up Malta's defences before Italy entered the war on Nazi Germany's side? Join James Holland and Al Murray for part 1 of this thrilling series on the siege of Malta, and how the very course of WW2 depended on the defence of this small island in the Mediterr…

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WW2 British Tank Myths 35:21

15d ago35:21

35:21

What made British tank steel so superior? Why do people think British tanks were so bad in WW2? How was the Centurion the peak of British tank engineering? Join James Holland and Al Murray as they dispel the many pervasive myths that surround the history of British tank design and procurement in WW2, showing conclusively it was often ahead of Nazi …

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Death In The Mountains: Warning From History 39:24

1M ago39:24

39:24

What happened after the war to the communities around Monte Sole? Why did SS troops execute civilians, including women and children? How did survivors try to move on with their lives? Join James Holland and Al Murray for part 3 as they explore the story of the largest mass killing of civilians in Western Europe outside of the camps, and try to unde…

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159 - Homegrown Halloween 30:34

1M ago30:34

30:34

In this seasonal celebration of all things autumnal, we embark on a creative journey through a DIY Halloween. From vibrant glass gem corn to giant pumpkins and sustainable decorations. Then, Danielle Hayes explores the inspiring New World Food Garden at RHS Wisley, where edible diversity, no-dig principles, and community collaboration redefine what…

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Death In The Mountains: Massacre At Monte Sole 56:09

1M ago56:09

56:09

How did the SS units fight back against the Italian partisan brigades? When was the Marzabotto massacre? What happened to the leaders of the Stella Rossa, and their families? Join James Holland and Al Murray for part 2 as they explore the story of the largest mass killing of civilians in Western Europe outside of the camps, and try to understand wh…

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Death In The Mountains: Italy's Robin Hood 59:49

1M ago59:49

59:49

Where is Monte Sole in Italy? Why was the Stella Rossa such a successful partisan group? What resistance did Italians engage in to fight Nazi Germany? Join James Holland and Al Murray for part 1 as they explore the story of the largest mass killing of civilians in Western Europe outside of the camps, and try to understand why the tragedy is so poor…

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Spy Family 21:03

1M ago21:03

21:03

As a part of our continuing effort to commemorate the incredible global story of WW2, we present our ongoing ‘Family Stories’ series. This series tells YOUR relatives’ stories of derring do - both on the front line and home front. In this episode we hear your tales of bucking broncos, Hogan's heroes, and adventures with The Chindits. With thanks to…

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Bader, Berets, & Apache Helicopters 37:35

1M ago37:35

37:35

By Goalhanger

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The Battle Of Britain: The Defeat Of The Luftwaffe 45:53

2M ago45:53

45:53

Why did Hitler give up on Operation Sealion and look East for conquest? What longterm consequences did British victory have for the wider war? When did the intensity of air attacks over Britain lessen? Join James Holland and Al Murray for part 6 of this new series on The Battle Of Britain as they explore the decisive aerial battles over Britain in …

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158 - Autumn Abundance: Sowing, Storing & the Kale Comeback 34:10

2M ago34:10

34:10

As golden leaves fall and the October sun dances between crisp mornings and balmy afternoons, Stephanie Hafferty shares her seasonal wisdom on making the most of autumn in the kitchen garden. In this packed episode, you'll learn what to sow now for winter and spring harvests, from garlic and broad beans to sweet carrots and microgreens. Discover cl…

201
The Battle Of Britain: Black Saturday 52:15

2M ago52:15

52:15

When was the worst day for RAF casualties in The Battle Of Britain? Why did bombing London mean relief for RAF Fighter Command? What happened on September 7th 1940? Join James Holland and Al Murray for part 5 of this new series on The Battle Of Britain as they explore the decisive aerial battles over Britain in summer 1940, and the dogged defence t…

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The Battle Of Britain: Attrition 40:52

1M ago40:52

40:52

What made a fighter pilot an ace in aerial combat? Why did Nazi Germany switch to bombing British cities? When did Polish and Czech pilots join the frontline in The Battle Of Britain? Join James Holland and Al Murray for part 4 of this new series on The Battle Of Britain as they explore the decisive aerial battles over Britain in summer 1940, and t…

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The Battle Of Britain: Attack Of The Eagles 53:24

2M ago53:24

53:24

What was Eagle Day? Why was German intelligence about British defences so poor? Was British success due to 'The Few'? Join James Holland and Al Murray for part 3 of this new series on The Battle Of Britain as they explore the decisive aerial battles over Britain in summer 1940, and the dogged defence that stopped the Nazi warmachine. Start your fre…

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The Battle Of Britain: The Dowding System 59:23

2M ago59:23

59:23

What was The Dowding System? Why was Chain Home pivotal to the defence of Britain in WW2? How many hours of training did RAF pilots have on average? Join James Holland and Al Murray for part 2 of this new series on The Battle Of Britain as they explore the decisive aerial battles over Britain in summer 1940, and the dogged defence that stopped the …

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The Battle Of Britain: Their Finest Hour 56:26

2M ago56:26

56:26

When did the Luftwaffe begin the Kanalkampf phase of The Battle Of Britain? How many fighters and bombers did Nazi Germany have for the air war over Britain in Summer 1940? What was Operation Sealion called before the name was changed? Join James Holland and Al Murray for part 1 of this new mythbusting series on The Battle Of Britain as they explor…

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157 - Boosting Biodiversity & Brilliant Broccoli 19:42

2M ago19:42

19:42

In celebration of Organic September, this episode dives into how even the smallest garden can become a biodiversity haven. Alice Whitehead from Garden Organic shares simple, beautiful ways to support wildlife—from window boxes and balcony habitats to mini ponds and edible flowers. Then, Rob Smith returns with a broccoli bonanza—reviewing everything…

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Rommel: Germany's Best General 49:24

3M ago49:24

49:24

Who was known as 'Smiling Albert'? Why is von Manstein overrated? What makes Model such a good general? Join James Holland and Al Murray for part 6 as they run through the best leadership of the Western Theatre in WW2, and the best generals may surprise you. If you're ready to go beyond the books and walk in the footsteps of heroes - visit ⁠legerba…

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The Best Panzer Generals Of WW2 47:57

3M ago47:57

47:57

Which Prussian general wore a kilt and tricked British units with his excellent English? Why did Halder lose command even after his successes in Poland and France? Who refused to wear their general insignia after the Second World War, and became a humble mechanic? Join James Holland and Al Murray for part 5 as they run through the best leadership o…

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The Case Against General Patton 35:37

3M ago35:37

35:37

How many times was George S. Patton fired by his superiors? Why isn't Lucian Truscott better known? Was Ridgway the most effective airborne commander of the Second World War? Join James Holland and Al Murray for part 4 as they run through the best land forces leadership of the Western Theatre in WW2 - and their answers may surprise you. Start your …

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Eisenhower: America's Best General 38:10

3M ago38:10

38:10

Was General Eisenhower the best US general of WW2? What decision impacts the reputation of Jumpin' Jim Gavin? When did General Mark Clark capture Rome? Join James Holland and Al Murray for part 3 as they run through the best land forces leadership of the Western Theatre in WW2 - and their answers may surprise you. Start your free trial at ⁠patreon.…

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156 - September in the Kitchen Garden: Pears, Preserves & Peak Harvest 32:40

3M ago32:40

32:40

September is a month of abundance and transition in the kitchen garden, and in this episode, we’re embracing it all. Stephanie Hafferty walks us through essential tasks for the month — from composting and sowing to harvesting and preserving a bounty of crops. Fruit expert David Patch joins us to share his top pear varieties for home growers, includ…

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Montgomery: Britain's Best General 43:20

3M ago43:20

43:20

Was Field Marshal Bernard Montgomery a bad general? Why isn't Richard O'Connor known for his stunning victories? When did Horrocks take command of XXX Corps? Join James Holland and Al Murray for part 2 as they run through the best land forces leadership of the Western Theatre in WW2 - and their answers may surprise you. Start your free trial at ⁠pa…

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The Best British General Of WW2 41:48

3M ago41:48

41:48

Was Harold Alexander the best land forces commander the British Empire had? Why was Field Marshal Alan Brooke called Lord Alanbrooke? What's so funny about Percy Hobart? Join James Holland and Al Murray for part 1 as they run through the best land forces leadership of the Western Theatre in WW2 - and their answers may surprise you. Start your free …

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A Clash In The Fog 26:34

3M ago26:34

26:34

As a part of our continuing effort to commemorate the incredible global story of WW2, we present our ongoing ‘Family Stories’ series. This series tells YOUR relatives’ stories of derring do - both on the front line and home front. In this episode we hear your tales of being washed up in Barbados, accidental parachute deployments, and lost summer lo…

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Hiroshima: VJ Day 45:47

3M ago45:47

45:47

When was WW2 over? How did different leaders behave at the end of the war? Why was the surrender on the deck of the USS Missouri? Join James Holland, Al Murray, and John McManus for Part 4 of the Hiroshima mini-series as they explore the end of WW2, 80 years on. Start your free trial at ⁠patreon.com/wehaveways⁠ and unlock exclusive content and more…

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155 - Grow Your Own Snacks 23:59

3M ago23:59

23:59

In this deliciously practical episode, Rob Smith dives into the world of homegrown snacking—from crunchy celery and colorful French beans to creamy pea dips and vibrant kohlrabi. Discover how to grow tasty, nutritious party bites even in the smallest of spaces. Then, Benedict Vanheems returns with essential advice for helping your plants thrive thr…

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Hiroshima: Nagasaki 43:33

3M ago43:33

43:33

Why was the second atomic bomb dropped on Nagasaki? How did Japanese mutineers in government try to keep the war going? When did the Emperor Hirohito admit defeat? Join James Holland and Al Murray for Part 3 as they explore the monumental decisions that led to the world's first atomic bomb being dropped at the end of WW2. Start your free trial at p…

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Hiroshima: Dropping The Bomb 44:17

4M ago44:17

44:17

When was Little Boy dropped on Hiroshima? How did different people react to the news of the explosion? Why was the second atomic bomb dropped on Nagasaki? Join James Holland, Al Murray, and Iain MacGregor for Part 2 as they explore the monumental decisions that led to the world's first atomic bomb being dropped at the end of WW2. SUBSCRIBE FOR A FR…

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Hiroshima: The Manhattan Project 58:52

4M ago58:52

58:52

What was the Manhattan Project? How accurate is the movie Oppenheimer? Why was the world's first nuclear weapon dropped on Hiroshima? Join James Holland, Al Murray, and Iain MacGregor for Part 1 as they explore the monumental decisions that led to the world's first atomic bomb being dropped at the end of WW2. SUBSCRIBE FOR A FREE WEEK AND GET EPISO…

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Burma '45: The Forgotten General 49:25

4M ago49:25

49:25

Who was the forgotten general in the Burma campaign? When was he made the last Chief of the Imperial General Staff and a Field Marshal? How understrength and ad-hoc were battalions fighting in Burma? Join James Holland and Al Murray for a bonus episode to the Burma '45 series, as they finish exploring the forgotten victories of commander Bill Slim …

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154 - Harvesting, Sowing & Beating the Heat in August 17:58

4M ago17:58

17:58

In this bumper August episode, the Kitchen Garden team digs into all the key jobs for the month—whether you're lifting onions, sowing winter salads, or managing a greenhouse in a heatwave. Learn how to check sweetcorn for ripeness, deter pests like vine weevils and spider mites, and keep your tomatoes and peppers thriving. Rob Smith also shares his…

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Burma '45: The Race To Rangoon 52:02

4M ago52:02

52:02

Who won the race to liberate Rangoon: Mountbatten or Slim? When was Operation Dracula in 1945? Why was the treatment of Slim so bad after his incredible achievements? Join James Holland and Al Murray for Part 6 of this series, as they explore the forgotten victories of commander Bill Slim and the 14th Army at the end of a bloody Burma Campaign in W…

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Burma '45: The Road To Mandalay 40:51

4M ago40:51

40:51

How did Allied air superiority and mechanisation contribute to the liberation of Central Burma? In what ways did Heitarō Kimura and William Slim compare as commanders? When did Punch Cowan's 17th Indian Infantry Division capture Meiktila? Join James Holland and Al Murray for Part 5 of this series, as they explore the forgotten victories of commande…

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Burma '45: The Master Stroke 1:03:40

4M ago1:03:40

1:03:40

How did Slim and the Allies plan to deceive Japanese forces in Burma? What was the true worth of the Chindits under Orde Wingate? When did the Allies attack Mandalay? Join James Holland and Al Murray for Part 4 of this series, as they explore the forgotten victories of commander Bill Slim and the 14th Army at the end of a bloody Burma Campaign in W…

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Burma '45: The Great Gamble 55:57

4M ago55:57

55:57

Why did different Allied commanders clash in their goals and methods to win the Burma campaign? What happened to the Japanese forces that tried to swim away from Ramree Island? How did the British supply forces in Burma, hundreds of miles from bases in India? Join James Holland and Al Murray for Part 3 of this series, as they explore the forgotten …

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153 - Seeds with Stories & July Gardening Essentials 17:21

4M ago17:21

17:21

In this episode, we bring you top greenhouse and garden jobs for July—from managing heat and humidity to sowing spring cabbages and keeping your tomatoes and peppers happy. Then, professional gardener Nicola Hope shares a moving story of heritage seeds and cultural preservation, taking us from her Gloucestershire greenhouse to far-off lands like Sy…

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Burma '45: The Empire Strikes Back 57:25

4M ago57:25

57:25

How did Mountbatten and South East Asia Command marshall new forces and tactics to retake Burma? What were conditions life for soldiers fighting in Burma? When did the Allies plan to go on the offensive against Japanese forces? Join James Holland and Al Murray for Part 2 of this series, as they explore the forgotten victories of commander Bill Slim…

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Burma '45: Killer Jungle 59:23

4M ago59:23

59:23

What was war like in Burma in 1944 and 1945? How did British and allied forces overcome the difficulties of jungle warfare and tropical disease? When did the Allies master fighting in the jungle during this campaign? Join James Holland and Al Murray for Part 1 of this series, as they explore the forgotten victories of commander Bill Slim and the 14…

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Potsdam: New World Order 45:03

5M ago45:03

45:03

How did the Potsdam Conference lead to the Marshall Plan, NATO, and The Warsaw Pact? What was The Long Telegram and the US policy of Containment? When did the Big Three of WW2 stop being antifascist allies and start being ideological enemies? Join James Holland, Al Murray, and guest Giles Milton for Part 2 on this exploration of the Potsdam Confere…