Anglotopia News Updates

As mourners gather at the Vatican to pay their respects to Pope Francis, few realize that nearly nine centuries ago, a humble Englishman made an unprecedented journey from poverty to the papacy. Nicholas Breakspear, who reigned as Pope Adrian IV from 1154 to 1159, remains the only Briton ever to… Read more »

In this episode of the Anglotopia podcast, host Jonathan Thomas speaks with Roanna Stromberg-Smith, a luxury Cotswold concierge and tour guide. They explore Roanna’s journey into tour guiding, the charm of the Cotswolds, and the unique experiences she offers to travelers. The conversation delves into the geography and appeal of… Read more »

A century after the beloved chocolate digestive first appeared on British tea tables, the factory chief overseeing its production has revealed most of us have been enjoying them incorrectly all along.Anthony Coulson, general manager at McVitie’s Stockport facility where the iconic biscuits have been made since 1925, claims the chocolate… Read more »

British Airways has announced a significant change to its in-flight beverage service, partnering with award-winning family-owned British brand Birchall as its new tea provider starting next week. The move affects the airline’s hot beverage service across all cabins and lounges worldwide, impacting the more than 37 million cups of tea… Read more »

A vibrant new garden commemorating Queen Elizabeth II is taking shape in London’s Regent’s Park, with the project now approaching its halfway point. Set to open in April 2026 to coincide with the centenary of the late monarch’s birth, this two-acre horticultural tribute is transforming a previously unused brownfield site… Read more »

Recent academic findings have upended longstanding beliefs about William Shakespeare’s marriage to Anne Hathaway, suggesting a more companionable partnership than scholars have traditionally portrayed.For over two centuries, the prevailing narrative held that Shakespeare essentially abandoned his wife in Stratford-upon-Avon while pursuing his theatrical career in London. His infamous bequest of… Read more »

Doctor Who stands as one of the most enduring and influential science fiction television programs in history. First broadcast on the BBC in 1963, this iconic series follows the adventures of “the Doctor,” a mysterious Time Lord from the planet Gallifrey who travels through time and space in a blue… Read more »

After a two-year closure, the Yale Center for British Art (YCBA) in New Haven, Connecticut has reopened its doors to the public, unveiling a completely reimagined presentation of its world-class collection. Housing the largest collection of British art outside the United Kingdom, this architectural gem designed by Louis I. Kahn… Read more »

As I write this, Spring is here. A time of renewal, a time of newfound warmth, and most importantly, a new series of Black Mirror dropping on Netflix. Frankly, it’s one of the better series we’ve had since Series 4 and that was about seven years back. And because it’s… Read more »

In this celebratory 50th episode of the Anglotopia podcast, hosts Jonathan and Jacqueline Thomas reflect on their journey through British travel, culture, and history. They engage with listeners through a Q&A session, sharing insights on accents, culinary experiences, and travel mishaps. The conversation also touches on the importance of historical… Read more »