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In this episode of American Countess, Julie Montagu visits the elegant Dabton House, a Georgian country home nestled in the heart of the Queensberry Estate in Dumfriesshire, Scotland. Designed in 1820 by the distinguished architect William Atkinson—better known for his Gothic work on landmarks like Scone Palace and Abbotsford—Dabton House stands out for its refined classical villa style.
Originally built as the residence for the estate’s factor, the house was thoughtfully refurbished in the 1980s to become the family home of the then Earl and Countess of Dalkeith. With their children having grown up here, Dabton retains the character of a warm and much-loved family home, seamlessly blending grandeur with intimacy.
Julie speaks with the Earl and Countess of Dalkeith to uncover the history, evolution, and continued life of this charming estate—offering a rare glimpse into the day-to-day reality of living in and preserving a Georgian gem.
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In this episode of American Countess, Julie Montagu visits the magnificent Carlton Towers, a grand Gothic Revival house in North Yorkshire steeped in history and transformation. Originally built as Carlton Hall in 1614 and later remodelled in the 19th century by Edward Welby Pugin, this Grade I listed house stands as a testament to centuries of architectural splendour and family legacy.
Julie sits down with Lord and Lady Fitzalan Howard to explore their journey of restoring and revitalising Carlton Towers, the challenges and rewards of preserving such a historic estate, and their vision for its future. This engaging conversation offers a rare glimpse into the life of modern custodians working to ensure that Carlton Towers remains a vibrant, living part of Britain’s heritage.
🎧 Listen now on:
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In this episode, Julie Montagu, American Countess, visits the remarkable Birdshall House to sit down with Lady Cara Willoughby, whose family has lived in this house for over 500 years.
Together, they explore Birdshall’s exceptional collection of antique furniture and paintings, many of which have been passed down through generations of the Willoughby family. From an unbroken line of family portraits dating back to 1570 to a furniture collection that rivals the finest English country houses, Birdshall is a home where history is not just preserved—it’s lived.
Lady Cara shares her passion for this historic estate, the stories behind the art and antiques, and her ambitious plans to preserve and protect Birdshall House for the future. This is an inspiring conversation about stewardship, storytelling, and the power of place.
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In this episode, Julie Montagu, American Countess, sits down with Mrs Georgina Berkeley, who has lived at Berkeley Castle for over 50 years, and Daisy Berkeley, who—alongside her husband Charles Berkeley—helps manage the castle and its historic estate today.
Together, we explore the remarkable story of Berkeley Castle, one of the few great English castles to have remained in the same family for over 900 years. From the12th century to the present day, the Berkeley family, their archives, contents, estate, and even the town itself have evolved together—creating a rare and unbroken legacy.
We discuss how the challenges of maintaining such a historic estate in the 21st century, and the deep sense of stewardship and tradition that comes with living in a house so steeped in the past.
This is a story of resilience, family, and living history—all set within the walls of one of Britain’s most extraordinary castles.
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In this episode, Julie Montagu, American Countess, visits Muncaster Castle, one of England’s most historic and atmospheric castles, to sit down with its custodians, Peter and Iona Frost-Pennington, and Hugh Frost-Pennington. Together, they discuss what it’s like to work as a family to preserve and manage this 900-year-old estate, balancing heritage conservation with the realities of modern-day upkeep.
From the legend of Tom Fool, the castle’s notorious jester, to the challenges of running a historic property, this conversation delves into the trials and triumphs of custodianship. The Frost-Pennington family shares insights into their deep connection to the castle, the mysteries and ghostly tales surrounding Muncaster, and their vision for ensuring its future for generations to come.
🎧 Listen now on:
Join this fascinating conversation to uncover the secrets, history, and heart of Muncaster Castle—a place where past and present collide!
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In this episode, Julie Montagu, American Countess, sits down with Sarah Troughton, the custodian of Blair Castle, to explore the fascinating history, royal connections, and enduring legacy of this iconic Scottish stronghold.
Nestled in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, Blair Castle has stood for over 750 years, serving as the ancestral seat of the Dukes of Atholl and home to the Atholl Highlanders, the only private army in Europe. With its ties to Mary, Queen of Scots, Bonnie Prince Charlie, and Queen Victoria, the castle is steeped in royal intrigue and historical drama.
Julie and Sarah discuss what it means to preserve and protect such an extraordinary estate, the challenges of balancing tradition with modern conservation, and the role of the Atholl family in shaping Scotland’s history. They also delve into how Blair Castle has adapted through the centuries, from its medieval roots to its role as a beloved Highland destinationtoday.
🎧 Listen now on:
Join this captivating conversation for a behind-the-scenes look at one of Scotland’s most storied and majestic castles!
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Julie Montagu, American Countess, sits down with Nicholas and Victoria Howard, custodians of the magnificent Castle Howard, to explore the realities of living in and preserving one of Britain’s most iconic stately homes. They discuss the challenges and responsibilities of heritage stewardship, how they navigated the unprecedented period of lockdown, and their vision for ensuring Castle Howard’s legacy for future generations.
With an architectural history spanning over a century—from John Vanbrugh’s bold Baroque designs to the later Palladian influences—Castle Howard remains an extraordinary testament to Britain’s aristocratic past. This in-depth conversation delves into the triumphs and trials of maintaining such a historic estate, offering a rare glimpse into life behind the grand façade.
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What Defines a Manor House? A Conversation at Owlpen Manor
In this episode of Secrets of Britain’s Historic Houses, Julie Montagu, American Countess, visits the enchanting Owlpen Manor in the Cotswolds to sit down with Sir Nicholas Mander, Lady Karin Mander, and Hugo Mander, the dedicated custodians of this Tudor manor house with a story as rich as its architecture.
Together, they explore the fundamental question: What truly makes a manor house a Manor House? From its medieval origins to its role in British society, this discussion uncovers the architectural features, historical significance, and cultural impact that distinguish manor houses from castles and country estates.
Owlpen Manor, dating from 1450–1616, is a remarkable example of Tudor and Jacobean craftsmanship, beautifully restored in 1926 after nearly a century of neglect. Nestled in a picturesque valley, it boasts a Tudor Great Hall (1523), a Jacobean Solar Parlour (1616), and rare painted cloth wall-hangings that offer a rare glimpse into 18th-century interiors. The Manders also share insights into the manor’s revival through the Arts and Crafts movement and its continued legacy under their stewardship.
👉 Listen now to discover:
✔️ What defines a true manor house
✔️ The Tudor, Jacobean, and Georgian elements of Owlpen Manor
✔️ How this historic home was rescued from ruin
✔️ The role of the Arts and Crafts movement in its restoration
✔️ The joys and challenges of being a modern-day custodian of a manor house
🎧 Watch on YouTube & listen wherever you get your podcasts!
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Join Julie Montagu, American Viscountess, for an intimate conversation with Rodrica and Jack Straker, the custodians of Burton Constable Hall, a magnificent yet often overlooked country house set in the flat plains of East Yorkshire.
For Rodrica, Burton Constable isn’t just a historic house—it was her childhood home, a magical yet eccentric place filled with hidden history. But for her father, John Chichester-Constable, who inherited the estate in 1963, it was a monumental challenge. Left in near ruin after wartime requisition, with bomb damage and a failing roof, the house was on the brink of collapse.
Determined to save it, he worked tirelessly with English Heritage to embark on an ambitious restoration, a legacy that continues today under the care of the Burton Constable Foundation.
Now, Rodrica and Jack share what it’s like to live in and care for this remarkable estate, from its Elizabethan origins and 18th-century refinements by Capability Brown and James Wyatt to the ongoing challenges of maintaining a home with over 30 rooms open to the public.
🎧 Tune in now on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube for a behind-the-scenes look at one of Britain’s most fascinating historic houses! #Podcast #JulieMontagu #AmericanViscountess
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Join Julie Montagu, American Viscountess, as I visit Hugh and Lara Crossley, Lord and Lady Somerleyton, for a fascinating conversation at Somerleyton Hall—one of the finest Victorian stately homes in the country.
With its Jacobean origins transformed into a breathtaking Italianate masterpiece by Prince Albert’s star sculptor John Thomas, Somerleyton Hall is steeped in history. The Clock Tower by Vulliamy even competed to be Britain’s most famous landmark—losing out to what is now Big Ben!
Beyond its grand façade, this estate holds nearly 900 years of history, from powerful past owners to its role as a filming location for The Crown, where it stood in for Sandringham during Season 4’s dramatic retelling of Charles and Diana’s turbulent relationship.
Join me as I sit down with Lord and Lady Somerleyton to discuss what it takes to preserve and sustain such an extraordinary estate in the modern world.
🎧 Listen now on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube! #Podcast #JulieMontagu #AmericanViscountess #SomerleytonHall #StatelyHomes #TheCrownNetflix #HistoricHouses
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In this episode of *Secrets of Britain’s Historic Houses*, I sit down with Lady Henrietta Spencer-Churchill in the private apartments at Blenheim Palace to explore the extraordinary life of her great-grandmother, Consuelo Vanderbilt. From her opulent beginnings as a Gilded Age heiress to her transformative years as Duchess of Marlborough, we delve into family stories, fascinating insights, and the enduring legacy of one of history’s most iconic American heiresses.
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Please support the production of American Viscountess and in particular our high production quality of the Historic Houses by becoming a Patron at https://www.patreon.com/americanviscountess
Here you'll received all vlogs and Historic House episodes early and ad-free plus behind-the-scenes videos, American Viscountess merchandise and much more! We can’t make these important Historic House episodes without the support of our patrons.
If you love castles and manors and stately homes get the latest over at my bi-monthly American Viscountess newsletter: https://julie-montagu-ltd.ck.page/9ab3679fb6
Join the UK's best membership scheme and help preserve Britain's independent heritage (international membership available too!) at https://www.historichouses.org/international/ and use the code AVTV05 to receive £5 off.
Follow me on Instagram for behind the scenes content: https://www.instagram.com/juliemontagu and https://www.instagram.com/americanviscountess
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a VERY special episode – a visit to the parish church in Cambridgeshire were generations of the Montagu family have been laid to rest. Here I uncover a family tragedy which leads me to the archives and a meeting with my Father-in-law, the 11th Earl of Sandwich, to try and solve a 100 year mystery!
Please support the production of American Viscountess and in particular our high production quality of the Historic Houses by becoming a Patron at https://www.patreon.com/americanviscountess
Here you'll received all vlogs and Historic House episodes early and ad-free plus behind-the-scenes videos, American Viscountess merchandise and much more! We can’t make these important Historic House episodes without the support of our patrons.
If you love castles and manors and stately homes get the latest over at my bi-monthly American Viscountess newsletter: https://julie-montagu-ltd.ck.page/9ab3679fb6
Join the UK's best membership scheme and help preserve Britain's independent heritage (international membership available too!) at https://www.historichouses.org/international/ and use the code AVTV05 to receive £5 off.
Follow me on Instagram for behind the scenes content: https://www.instagram.com/juliemontagu and https://www.instagram.com/americanviscountess
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Athelhampton House in Dorset is the focus of this NEW episode of historic house visits here on the American Viscountess channel. Living in and maintaining these homes is both a wonderful privilege and an enormous challenge. And one of the greatest tasks every house owner faces is heating a centuries old building in a sustainable and economical way. Giles Keating at Athelhampton has faced this challenge in a totally pioneering and ingenious way!
Join me as I visit Athelhampton House - the first solar powered Manor House in England.
To learn more about Athelhampton: https://www.athelhampton.com
Please support the production of American Viscountess and in particular our high production quality of the Historic Houses by becoming a Patron at https://www.patreon.com/americanviscountess
Here you'll received all vlogs and Historic House episodes early and ad-free plus behind-the-scenes videos, American Viscountess merchandise and much more! We can’t make these important Historic House episodes without the support of our patrons.
If you love castles and manors and stately homes get the latest over at my bi-monthly American Viscountess newsletter: https://julie-montagu-ltd.ck.page/9ab3679fb6
Join the UK's best membership scheme and help preserve Britain's independent heritage (international membership available too!) at https://www.historichouses.org/international/ and use the code AVTV05 to receive £5 off.
Follow me on Instagram for behind the scenes content: https://www.instagram.com/juliemontagu and https://www.instagram.com/americanviscountess
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In this episode, I’m visiting Bucklers Hard on the Beaulieu estate – just a short distance from Palace House, Beulieu Abbey and the National Motor Museum. The first Earl of Sandwich, the branch of the Montagu family which I married into, is known worldwide because he was head of the Admiralty and brought King Charles II back from exile. But it’s now wonderful for me to visit Beaulieu and discover the rich maritime links of another branch of the Montagu family.
I’ll be meeting with the Hon. Mary Montagu-Scott who has a lifelong passion for the maritime history of Beaulieu and is a keen sailor. Mary shows me the replica timber framed shipwrights workshop which she masterminded. And my husband Luke and I will be cheering on our 17 year old son, William as he and Mary set sail on the Beaulieu river.
To find out more about Palace House, Beaulieu: https://www.beaulieu.co.uk
Please support the production of American Viscountess and in particular our high production quality of the Historic Houses by becoming a Patron at https://www.patreon.com/americanviscountess
Here you'll received all vlogs and Historic House episodes early and ad-free plus behind-the-scenes videos, American Viscountess merchandise and much more! We can’t make these important Historic House episodes without the support of our patrons.
If you love castles and manors and stately homes get the latest over at my bi-monthly American Viscountess newsletter: https://julie-montagu-ltd.ck.page/9ab3679fb6
Join the UK's best membership scheme and help preserve Britain's independent heritage (international membership available too!) at https://www.historichouses.org/international/ and use the code AVTV05 to receive £5 off.
Follow me on Instagram for behind the scenes content: https://www.instagram.com/juliemontagu and https://www.instagram.com/americanviscountess
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Not only is Beaulieu home to the National Motor Museum, but also to the extraordinary ruins of Beaulieu Abbey, which date back to the foundation of the monastery here in the thirteenth century. The more I visit historic houses around Britain, the more I realise how many of them have monastic roots. In this episode, Lord Montagu guides me around some of the surviving buildings and shows me the exquisite wall hangings, stitched by his mother, which chart the history of the abbey. I also explore a hidden part of the Beaulieu estate where the well used by the monks still survives today. And I end my visit at the newly restored ice house – a glimpse back to the days when historic houses functioned more like life in the tv series, Downton Abbey.
To find out more about Palace House, Beaulieu: https://www.beaulieu.co.uk
Please support the production of American Viscountess and in particular our high production quality of the Historic Houses by becoming a Patron at https://www.patreon.com/americanviscountess
Here you'll received all vlogs and Historic House episodes early and ad-free plus behind-the-scenes videos, American Viscountess merchandise and much more! We can’t make these important Historic House episodes without the support of our patrons.
If you love castles and manors and stately homes get the latest over at my bi-monthly American Viscountess newsletter: https://julie-montagu-ltd.ck.page/9ab3679fb6
Join the UK's best membership scheme and help preserve Britain's independent heritage (international membership available too!) at https://www.historichouses.org/international/ and use the code AVTV05 to receive £5 off.
Follow me on Instagram for behind the scenes content: https://www.instagram.com/juliemontagu and https://www.instagram.com/americanviscountess
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If you love classic cars, you’ll love this episode. In this second instalment of my visit to Beaulieu in Hampshire - I explore the National Motor Museum, founded in 1952 by the present Lord Montagu’s father and home to the most spectacular collection of vintage cars charting the history of motoring. During my visit I also explore the autojumble sale.
To find out more about Palace House, Beaulieu: https://www.beaulieu.co.uk
Please support the production of American Viscountess and in particular our high production quality of the Historic Houses by becoming a Patron at https://www.patreon.com/americanviscountess
Here you'll received all vlogs and Historic House episodes early and ad-free plus behind-the-scenes videos, American Viscountess merchandise and much more! We can’t make these important Historic House episodes without the support of our patrons.
If you love castles and manors and stately homes get the latest over at my bi-monthly American Viscountess newsletter: https://julie-montagu-ltd.ck.page/9ab3679fb6
Join the UK's best membership scheme and help preserve Britain's independent heritage (international membership available too!) at https://www.historichouses.org/international/ and use the code AVTV05 to receive £5 off.
Follow me on Instagram for behind the scenes content: https://www.instagram.com/juliemontagu and https://www.instagram.com/americanviscountess
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In a new series of films, I explore the historic home of Lord Montagu of Beaulieu. In 1952, Beaulieu was one of the first historic houses in Britain to open it's doors to the public - and with the family passion for the motor car at its heart, interest soon grew and the National Motor Museum was born. Today, the collection includes 285 vehicles and thousands of objects relating to the history of motoring. A highlight for me was a visit to the workshops of the museum - where I was able to have a peek under the bonnet of one of the cars that launched the museum - a 1903 De Dion Bouton ... be sure to watch to see what happened when I got behind the wheel!
To find out more about Palace House, Beaulieu: https://www.beaulieu.co.uk
Please support the production of American Viscountess and in particular our high production quality of the Historic Houses by becoming a Patron at https://www.patreon.com/americanviscountess
Here you'll received all vlogs and Historic House episodes early and ad-free plus behind-the-scenes videos, American Viscountess merchandise and much more! We can’t make these important Historic House episodes without the support of our patrons.
If you love castles and manors and stately homes get the latest over at my bi-monthly American Viscountess newsletter: https://julie-montagu-ltd.ck.page/9ab3679fb6
Join the UK's best membership scheme and help preserve Britain's independent heritage (international membership available too!) at https://www.historichouses.org/international/ and use the code AVTV05 to receive £5 off.
Follow me on Instagram for behind the scenes content: https://www.instagram.com/juliemontagu and https://www.instagram.com/americanviscountess
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In the final instalment of my visit to Deene Park, I get stuck in and see all that goes on in preparing for a big wedding by the lake - one of three wedding venues on the estate. These historic houses rely on visitor income, the tours, the events, but weddings are a huge part of that income – which all helps with the restoration and repair, to preserve this part of Britain’s heritage. I’ll be exploring the beautiful gardens with Charlotte and Robert Brudenell – and seeing how Charlotte has created her own signature rose garden. With some polishing of silver and setting the table for our farewell dinner party – this visit to Deene Park has been a joy from start to finish.
To find out more about Deene Park: https://www.deenepark.com
Please support the production of American Viscountess and in particular our high production quality of the Historic Houses by becoming a Patron at https://www.patreon.com/americanviscountess
Here you'll received all vlogs and Historic House episodes early and ad-free plus behind-the-scenes videos, American Viscountess merchandise and much more! We can’t make these important Historic House episodes without the support of our patrons.
If you love castles and manors and stately homes get the latest over at my bi-monthly American Viscountess newsletter: https://julie-montagu-ltd.ck.page/9ab3679fb6
Join the UK's best membership scheme and help preserve Britain's independent heritage (international membership available too!) at https://www.historichouses.org/international/ and use the code AVTV05 to receive £5 off.
Follow me on Instagram for behind the scenes content: https://www.instagram.com/juliemontagu and https://www.instagram.com/americanviscountess
Follow our sister channel to watch it’s really like living in an historic house in the 21st century: https://www.youtube.com/c/mappertonlive
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American Viscountess Season 2 is co-produced with Aonia Culture, https://aonia.com - It is made in association with @historic_houses https://historichouses.org The U.K’s largest collection of independently owned historic houses and gardens.
The production of American Viscountess is made possible by our Patrons - thank you! Please consider becoming a Patron at https://patreon.com/americanviscountess
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