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An exploration of the culture and history of north-east England

knowing our north east

From the Tees to the Tweed

Welcome to ‘North by North-East’, a podcast that delves into the rich and varied heritage of North East England. Join Ben and Glen as they explore the many quirks and facets of our region’s history, viewing Northumbria through a fresh lens to better understand both our past and future.

Latest EpisodeS

Ep 9: The Kingdom of Northumbria North by North-East

From academic institutions to water suppliers, the name 'Northumbria' is something that Northeasterners often encounter in their day-to-day lives. Indeed, the name of that old kingdom has echoed across the millennia, but what do we actually know of it? Admittedly, we're left in the dark (or in the early medieval?) about much of its history. However, thanks to the propensity for holy people to scribble on calfskin, there is plenty of light we can shed on a regional power whose expansionist and cultural exploits would remain unmatched, at least until the advent of 'Greggs' approximately 1,500 years later.  In this episode, Glen and Ben seek to chart the history and significance of the Kingdom of Northumbria, navigating a few suspect head shavings and family fallouts along the way. Bernician or Deiran, Pagan or Christian, Angle or Briton, all are welcome on our journey. Just try not to think of all the baby cows that were sacrificed to bring us this episode…
  1. Ep 9: The Kingdom of Northumbria
  2. North East Natters: Nikki Bell (North East Folklore Society)

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