Hidden Secrets inside a Tudor Manor House | Harvington Hall

In this video, Hidden Secrets of a Tudor Manor House | Harvington Hall, Kevin Hicks uncovers the art of deception as he delves into the Hall's remarkable secret hiding places, cunningly designed to safeguard Catholic priests during Elizabeth I's reign. Join him on a captivating journey as he explores the hidden secrets and fascinating history of Harvington Hall, a beautiful Elizabethan moated manor house nestled in the heart of the Worcestershire countryside.
The Hall underwent a huge restoration programme, somewhat instigated by the roof collapsing in 1929, a result of the ivy being stripped from it. You can support the continued restoration program by visiting the Hall itself, which we would highly recommend, or by donation on their website www.harvingtonhall.co.uk/donate
If you'd like to support the channel and help us continue making fun, fascinating videos, check out our PATREON page for details:
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OTHER LINKS: Website: historysquad.ca
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CREDITS:
Aerial Footage: By Ian Dangerfield, courtesy of Harvington Hall. www.harvingtonhall.co.uk
Some still images: Courtesy of Immersive Tours Ltd
Music: Borderless - Aakash Gandhi | Royalty Free Music - No Copyright Music. • Borderless - Aakash Ga...

[@BigStrongSon]

No Infographs, zero props, no fancy editing or CG, just Kevin walking around an old English manor and yet I was completely entranced by the way he tells a story. Thanks for the work you put into these videos because I really enjoy watching

[@thehistorysquad]

Thanks so much, it makes it worthwhile. 👍🏻

[@bmxerqf882]

I'm honestly amazed you're not hosting TV documentaries yet! Your passion for history is infectious.

[@Hero101010]

In my humble opinion this is way better than a TV show, because there is no chaff and Kevin's love of history really shines through!

[@inyobill]

When I was in school, I thought history was boring. could it be the way that it is presented???

[@gloworm6387]

​@@inyobill me too. And I think you're right about the presentation.

[@willbohland3698]

I feel like they'd need to hire his wife, too, for the camera work. She's very good.

[@thehistorysquad]

@@willbohland3698 That's very kind of you to say so, she's blushing now 👍🏻

[@lilChelseyDee]

I just realized this wasn’t from a major network after finishing the video and coming to the comments. Absolutely amazing job! Your passion for history shone through and was so infectious. How exciting history is even this long after these events took place!

[@donitaforrest9064]

Yes, he has the ability to impart knowledge, and the style, grace & confidence on camera, of Sir David Attenborough.

[@craighanson-rc1md]

These days those things could easily be useful again from all sorts of evil & misguided folks let alone zombies or criminals.

[@e-mail881]

@@donitaforrest9064 (((Sir))) Attenborough hates you, silly! You don't know the man you're sucking up to!

[@ammedredd]

Try saying BAD rather than EVIL because once you've used Evil there's nowhere else to go and very few things or people are, it's far to easy to use and usually used by tabloid rags to stop us thinking, it's downright evil! See what I mean?​@@craighanson-rc1md

[@ariannedechateaumichel7777]

As the daughter of an architect who loves historic architecture, I find the construction details you're showing us completely fascinating!

[@Moley533]

I wish we was taught history like this when I was at school. Thanks Kevin for your visual style of teaching history.

[@JohnyG29]

were*

[@willychimp]

Kevin, where did you learn your media skills? I remember there were two semesters of class work to get it organized but y’all pretty professional

[@inyobill]

Ahhhh, I just posted a similar reply to another comment, specifically when I was in school I though that history was boring.

[@stevemull2002]

i agree M8, History when i left in 1976, was the most boring subject, next to Geography, yet now aged 63, both subjects fascinate me

[@davidbnsmessex.5953]

I wish we ‘WERE’ taught .

[@samralion2996]

I went here as a kid on a school trip, this was about 16 years ago. I always remembered the book Hide. At the time the tour guide got 6 of us inside whilst the others in the class tried to find us to no avail. Needless to say amazing content!!!!!

[@thehistorysquad]

Oh wow! Brilliant.

[@joshschneider9766]

Man y'all got to play hide and seek in a centuries old house. All I got to see was some farms in southern Illinois USA that were hardly a century and a half old 😂

[@thehistorysquad]

@@joshschneider9766 Yeah, pretty cool huh 👍🏻

[@susanaleonard5953]

Love the architecture, love the hidden priest holes, gives you thought to building in a safe hole in your own home 😉 to🤫🥴

[@Lettusfarm]

​@@joshschneider9766lol same, but in Ohio😥

[@crlheureux]

The luxury of those days astound me. The ingenuity, planning, and craftsmanship that was put into this home.

[@dee2251]

As a Catholic, I was taken here by my Catholic school on a day trip when I was still in junior school in the late 60’s. It’s fascinating

[@stevenanthony199]

Hello Dee how are you doing today

[@amishparadise1924]

Bollocks

[@susanfox-mx3nv]

Kevin Hicks is a wonderful commentator. His observations are articulated well and not overstated. He seemed to intuitively know what is interesting and worth sharing. I was engaged the entire time. Cheers to you Kevin!

[@thehistorysquad]

Thanks Susan!

[@Meppity]

This just sent me on a wonderful trip down memory lane!! I came here on a school trip in year 5 or 6. I remember all of us giggling as volunteers squeezed into the wood beam hidey-hole. They closed the place up and made us quiet to prank the next batch of classmates to walk through. That was over ten years ago.

[@clarencejones7916]

Thanks to people like you who keep history alive and not trying to cancel it like we’re doing in the USA

[@kimberlyray3014]

Yes 💯 agree I have my son is a freshman he knows little to no history persay but they made sure to teach them about Sun God Ra Osiris king tut that's education for you Burning books

[@nataliapanfichi9933]

​@@kimberlyray3014your comment is a bit confusing, if you say that your son doesn't read much books how does he know about a historical figure like king tut? Did he see a documentary, a movie or look it up on Google?

[@kimberlyray3014]

@@nataliapanfichi9933 in school history class and went to see the king tut exhibit at cosi !

[@synchronicity1470]

@@kimberlyray3014 actually, the radical right are banning books, changing school curriculum to reflect their views and revising History and science books to force their skewed views. The level to which religious fanatics are pushing their ways on the US is frightening, dangerous and an assault on the rights and freedoms most liberals and many republicans hold dear.

[@aliciakillen1940]

The only thing I’m seeing in the USA isn’t “ canceling “ history, it’s REWRITING history ie: trying to promote that slavery wasn’t “ so bad” and slavers were generally good people etc and that the civil war had nothing to do with retaining slavery. Things like that!!

[@troismoutonsetuntigre5988]

I've watched hundreds if not thousands of hours of history videos over the years, this is one of the best, just a straightforward presentation of something amazing by someone who is amazed by it. Also why have I never seen this house before? I really want to visit it. I think it's my favourite ever.

[@thehistorysquad]

It is a gem for sure 👍🏻

[@marnatz5]

I'm a Catholic from America and had read up on the English Martyrs of this time period before visiting Harvington Hall in 2001. The tour of this house made my reading come alive, as did watching this video today. Googling the master carpenter Nicholas Owens is fascinating history also. He built priest holes all over England. There's a KZbin on him also. Tour guide said no priest was ever arrested at Harvington. Besides the 7 priest holes, tour guide said there is a long driveway so the occupants could foresee an anti-Catholic raid coming and it gave them time to hide the priest and other evidence.

[@jimhattery4348]

Kevin, you're the best history presenter ever!

[@coffeecocaine8878]

Agreed!

[@yeaheddyman]

100% agree with you 👍🏻

[@thehistorysquad]

Thank you so much!

[@laurieleannie]

Agreed!!!

[@blazingstar9638]

This is wonderful

[@agentmueller]

Cheers Kevin, I hope you never change. As an American you’ve taught me so much, I would love to see more of your personal history and time in Ireland. You might think nobody wants to hear it but I’m sure we all do! We watch for you #1 and the history #2. Thanks a bunch!

[@thehistorysquad]

Haha, that's very kind. I actually just shot a personal stories video this week about my time in Mineapollis in September of 2001. A medieval bowman in America (or maybe Robin Hood) It'll be out in a couple of weeks. 👍🏻

[@cmoore7780]

Agreed !

[@ojoslindos69]

⁠@@thehistorysquad hi I just started watching your videos and I think I saw someone or a ghost passing through on left side of the house in the front of the introduction of the video in one of the small white windows is in the minute 2:34 to 2:41 . Is very clearly seeing someone or a ghost passing

[@Lettusfarm]

​@@ojoslindos69wow! I missed it at first. Neat

[@josephcooper6692]

He’s a charming man, who’s so enthusiastic about the history of the place.

[@jacquelyndixon2788]

Your enthusiasm translates across the screen. I've watched so many historical tours and documentaries, but none make me feel like I'm actually there, but you have that gift. As a teacher, I don't know which I admire more, your historical knowledge and ability to focus on even small details, or your effortless delivery and ability to draw your audience in. Well done, sir. I think this was my favorite episode, ever. Also, kudos for being a gentleman who gives acknowledgements to others, like the man who made the faux pies, or the one who discovered Elizabeth's portrait.

[@thehistorysquad]

I'm so glad you enjoyed this one, Harvington was an easy place to get excited about, it's simply stunning. 👍🏻

[@sking3492]

I agree, his knowledge, delivery, enthusiasm, make you feel you are right there

[@davidstrother496]

Thanks, Kevin, for a most fascinating tour of the house. The hides were very cleverly done, and as a bit of a carpenter, and furniture maker myself, I would have loved the challenge of the task. Unfortunately, it is also saddening at the same time, to think of the extreme measures needed to avoid being killed as a result of religious persecution. As always, cheers from Texas, and I look forward to your next video.

[@thehistorysquad]

Cheers David, the work and ingenuity that went into those hides was quite amazing, something to behold. 👍🏻

[@jackesioto]

But then again, the UK was a theocratic absolute monarchy at the time, thus priests of sects other than that practiced by the king or queen had to immure themselves in those ''priest holes''.

[@joshschneider9766]

@@jackesioto yeah thank dear Henry for that little "schism" lol

[@spankyjeffro5320]

Considering what those same believers would advocate be done to non-believers, not saddening in the slightest.

[@marnatz5]

Under King Henry VIII 800 monasteries were shut down and the property was given to his cronies as reward for their loyalty. Consequently the social fabric was torn apart because the monasteries were places of worship, served as motels for travelers and were places of serving the poor. So Catholics, travelers and the poor had their crucial foundations obliterated.

[@petercopley1242]

It's nice to see these old buildings still standing so many have been left to ruin which is a shame. Brilliant video though 😊 👍

[@joshschneider9766]

How the BBC has missed out on your services is beyond me. Tudor and medieval archaeology in the UK is a hobby passion of mine and you sir are an absolute gold mine of knowledge. Thank you so much for this and all your videos my good Sir. May all your wishes be granted.

[@thehistorysquad]

Thanks Josh, I'm glad you enjoyed the video. I'm looking out for places to visit and film next year, so if you have any ideas for places that don't charge for filming, please let me know. Sadly the likes of National Trust and some places are way out of my budget. 👍🏻

[@SneakyNinja24]

The architecture of medieval times is absolutely mind boggling to me. It’s stunning and such an interesting thing to learn about.

[@nemain_morgaine4151]

This is not medieval, this is elizabethan

[@_fiend]

Never stop showing us this great history, I can tell people for generations will learn from this.

[@amarsiddiq2814]

This man is awesome he also has such a calm and soothing voice.

[@donkeyballs3081]

Hello from Atlanta, Georgia in the United States. I never had much interest in learning about this until I stumbled across this channel. The episode about surgeons removing arrows caught my attention and now I'm hooked.

[@thehistorysquad]

Excellent, welcome aboard! 👍🏻

[@captainbananapants7211]

Hello neighbor from Fayetteville GA here lol

[@Scrapper.]

From an age where persecution see-sawed between the denominations. Bloody Mary's earlier five-year reign wasn't merciful towards protestants. Scores were settled under Elizabeth. Riveting tour of the magnificent house that would've shimmered in bright beautiful paintings and murals throughout. Kevin is a very engaging host. Cheers. Respect from Ireland.

[@thehistorysquad]

Thanks Stephen 👍🏻

[@jaymac7203]

Those original worn floorboards have had centuries of people walking on them. I bet they could tell a few stories 😮

[@inyobill]

"If the walls could talk", eh?

[@christina3521]

@@inyobillthat is the name of a beautiful song by Amy Grant

[@Dochorahan]

As an American it’s been a long time dream of mine to visit the UK and thoroughly enjoy and take in it’s beautiful rich history. Absolutely fascinating and one of the best places in the world.

[@MrTangolizard]

Come and visit but plan before as we have thousands of these type of places hiring a car would be a good way of seeing places June and July August are the best months

[@MrTangolizard]

Come and visit but plan before as we have thousands of these type of places hiring a car would be a good way of seeing places June and July August are the best months

[@ldavid2528]

This was fascinating! And delivered in such a down-to-Earth engaging way without being patronising. Skillful camera work too! Thank you!

[@thehistorysquad]

Thank you very much 👍🏻

[@trottyong]

Thank you for your passion for history. Most of us Americans have our roots in your country and it is fascinating to learn about our collective story. Thank you again.

[@califdad4]

I heard about 43 years ago most of us had either English or German background, I don't think it's most of us today, the USA has changed a lot in the last 43 years

[@joshschneider9766]

It hasn't been true to say most Americans are of UK descent since the early eighteen hundreds, if not way before that lol. Census data and all my boy. I look at it at least weekly as part of my early American history studies.

[@joshschneider9766]

There was even a polish general who led American forces to multiple battle victories in the revolutionary war ;)

[@BBBelle]

Thank you so much for this tour, Kevin! I love Elizabethan architecture, and the walking tour is so much easier to wrap my head around instead of still pictures or just jumping from room to room. I'd love to see more manor tours!

[@thehistorysquad]

Haha indeed, so would we. Next year perhaps when we revisit the UK. 👍🏻

[@inyobill]

I adore those old houses.

[@PhyllisGlassup2TheBrim]

@@thehistorysquad I find it strange that someone with a love of history would go and live in a country with none............. When I lived there, it felt barren. I'm sensitive to atmosphere in old buildings, even my relatively 'modern' 1860 house. It's like traces are left of 'something' and energy and I have visited many places and felt, heard and even seen things. Even smelled flowery perfume. In Canada I felt I was just in a wrong place. It was devoid of the nuances and 'feelings' that are all around me here .

[@thehistorysquad]

@@PhyllisGlassup2TheBrim I hear what you're saying. Thankfully I'm lucky enough to get back to the UK to get my fill of history now and again👍🏻

[@janetwebster5099]

​@thehistorysquad Where are you located,if not the UK? Just curious- wonderful program,just subscribed!

[@0ldb1ll]

The fact that there were carpenters marks around some joints means that, at some point, that part of the house was standing elsewhere. The marks ensure that having been dismantled and moved that part of the building could be re-assembled. In those days 'moving house' meant just that. The main structure of the house was the oak beams and the holes in between would be filled in by wood panels, on the interior, and wattle and daub, on the exterior.

[@ealingwest5750]

I believe that the marks were also used to denote the work done by the individual craftsmen so they could be paid for their work, this was the case with stone masons but did it apply to 'chippys' as well?

[@eleveneleven572]

Often structures were simply built outdoors, marked, and then reassembled in situ.

[@mikesweetwater3209]

I was wondering about that. He pointed out carpenter marks but didn’t go into detail about the significance of them?? Any info would be appreciated:)

[@chelsealou9367]

You have a priest, O.M.G. That made me smile! Such a great presenter. Very cheeky

[@sherimcdaniel3491]

Does anyone else get the feeling that Kevin’s house is filled with trapdoors, priest hides (used for crafting historic reproduction models, miniature train villages and their accoutrements and various costuming?). One can just tell it would keep all of us busy for decades just looking at it all! Much love, Kevin - be well my friend! ❤️🐈

[@thehistorysquad]

😜 cheers Sheri

[@bostonrailfan2427]

intriguing history, it’s a testament to the devotion and determination to be true to one’s self. the fact that secrets are still being uncovered over four and a half centuries later is simply astounding…

[@inyobill]

Incredible how much original state remains.

[@thehistorysquad]

It is and it isn't when you consider that it was probably double this size originally. I'll do a community post sometime soon and show you how it looked in the 1920s, quite different. The restoration program has been huge and is still ongoing. 👍🏻

[@inyobill]

@@thehistorysquad Thanks for the courtesy of the reply, always appreciated. I actually have another question if you have time. Were the Elizabethan wall decorations hidden under wall paper?

[@sharonwhiteley6510]

I am amazed by each episode. Thanks for your professionalism, true love of history and willingness to provide topnotch information. May GOD bless

[@thehistorysquad]

So nice of you, thanks.

[@stevenanthony199]

Hello Sharon how are you doing today

[@soupwifey]

This is a most amazing historical lesson. Thank you for sharing this. I previously had not known about this as this wasn't taught in America.

[@cmoore7780]

I cannot express how grateful I am for your history teaching. I’ve learned so much. Wish you had of been my history teachers. Hope everyone has a great rest of the month. Great group of people in this community

[@thehistorysquad]

Thank you, it's my pleasure to share these stories and histories and yes you're right, this community really is something special. 👍🏻

[@jodieg6318]

I really resonated with this house as you walked through. As carpenter myself I love seeing the work of a master and the marks of other craftsmen. The jointers were more than likely paid by the piece and we still use the same kind of wood chisels. I feel like I can see that carpenter in my mind, he's making his mark and probably pulling on his arms something awful by now buts he tallying up how much he's going to make that day, is there enough for rent? For the market? Maybe he's got a wife and baby at home to support, maybe he's a young man still and he's going to be having a night out with other lads on his crew? Things like that is why I love working on old houses and I feel that connection and it feels like the only thing separating us is just time not space because we're still always people no matter what Era of time we've landed in. It feels like a real link with the past.

[@thehistorysquad]

Of course, I'd forgotten you were a carpenter. It was really something being able to touch those marks 👍🏻

[@deniseroe5891]

Love this, amazing what they did, all the hidey holes. My ears perked up when you said de Beauchamp. The de Beauchamp that had the house, his grandfather is my 21st great grandfather, so I guess that makes him my uncle. Wow.

[@stevenanthony199]

Hello Denise how are you doing today

[@billharner147]

This is amazing. I recently read the book The Priest Hunters by Colin C. Murphy that's about priest hunting in Ireland. It was neat to see actual priest hides similar to some of what was described in the book and bring that period of history to life.

[@yoptastic8463]

Really enjoyed this video Kevin, what a fabulous, beautiful Tudor House and totally loving all the Priest Holes, especially that staircase. I do appreciate that hiding Priests was a very serious business and often ment literally putting your head on the block! Just shows you how strong their faith really was to these Catholics if they were willing to risk their lives to carry on with their religion. Is it true that some Priests died in some Priest holes, relying on a fellow Catholic to release you if indeed they haven't been caught? Dangerous times,.. Ah Kevin I could listen to you all day teaching me history, your simply the best. 👍😊❤️

[@JohnyG29]

Well the priest holes are locked from the inside, so i guess they could usually get themselves out.

[@thehistorysquad]

Thanks so much! In answer to your question, I imagine its quite plausible that a priest might have died in hiding there, through starvation or lack of oxygen, but I'm not aware of a record of any individuals this may have happened to. 👍🏻

[@marnatz5]

Harvington Hall tour guide said no priest had ever been arrested at Harvington Hall. The Guide also said the very long, straight entrance driveway gave the occupants a visual forewarning of an impending anti-Catholic raid.

[@lorettablakeman3335]

I love the way you narrate history for us!I've been an anglophile my whole life and Harvington hall is amazing,thank you for your videos sir,I love them!

[@stevenanthony199]

Hello Loretta how are you doing today

[@stephanierobinson8931]

Started watching and couldn't stop........brilliant and fascinating to listen to all your knowledge - thanks so much for posting! Will be catching up on the rest of your videos over the next few weeks 🙂

[@thehistorysquad]

That's great to hear, thanks!

[@stevenanthony199]

Hello Stephanie how are you doing today

[@susandelongis885]

So fascinating! I’ve never seen paintings like this, exquisite. Thank you. It certainly reminds me not to take the practice of my faith for granted. God bless their brave souls.

[@stevenanthony199]

Hello Susan how are you doing today

[@tonymeads4693]

MANY thanks, Kevin. You bring history to life. I get excited by history and the fact that those people from hundreds of years ago were just like ourselves. It is the everyday things like the carpenters marks that fascinate me and the ingenuity of the priest hides. Once again thanks for a GREAT video !

[@thehistorysquad]

My pleasure, thanks for watching 👍🏻

[@pinkfloydmarch16]

Architecture these days is so bland in comparison. Maybe I just dislike modernity, but medieval architecture is so much more personal, and the construction labor was much more intense and appreciated

[@arthurdoucette1786]

Greetings once again from nova Scotia, thanks Kevin, I love the history of your home country. I am very keen on the cross over from mideval to the Tuder period, mind you, England is ALL history. Thanks again for the video, stay safe, and as always best regards.

[@thehistorysquad]

My pleasure Arthur, you stay safe & well too 👍🏻

[@Truth1561]

I was thrilled to see this appear in my feed and it didn't disappoint. I remember visiting this house in 1970 when I was 10 and I've been fascinated with history -esp this era- ever since. We went into some of the priest holes and I discovered I'm claustrophobic 😁 I remember standing in front of one of the windows upstairs looking out and with the wonderful imagination of a child picturing what I was wearing, smelling, seeing back then. I definitely felt a little spooked in a few parts of the house as well. I would have loved a close up of the doors as there seemed to be lots of different door styles in there. Thank you so much for a wonderful tour and a reminder of my visit as a child! I've often thought if this great house. I'm from Brum and my family live in Kidderminster now whilst I live in Essex.

[@mr.listener8580]

You are an amazing presenter. Great job. I love history, but what I love the most about it is learning about everyday objects and buildings that inform me about life at that time. I am a hand tool woodworker by hobby. It would take me days to get through this house because I would be examining EVERY little detail down to the tool marks........imagining and connecting with the man who was responsible, imagining his life. What a profound feeling.....it’s the closest thing to time travel. Thank you again. I wish we had history that deep here in the US.

[@marnatz5]

The master carpenter is Nicholas Owens. Google his name plus KZbin and you'll find more fascinating information on this skilled and extremely brave carpenter.

[@jonhelmer8591]

Fantastic! Just the right balance between professionalism and pure enthusiastic interest. The BBC used to be really good at it. Now it's your job Kevin.

[@thehistorysquad]

Oh wow, that's such a compliment Jon, thank you 👍🏻

[@nick0875]

It's interesting how much effort went into making this manor house appear like a normal place while concealing numerous means of hiding from the authorities.

[@auntiejen5376]

It's a beautiful and amazing house. There are so many aspects I absolutely love. I can almost imagine living in that house.

[@susanpoindexter1635]

You have the most welcoming and warm manner as a host!

[@williamfarr8048]

I'd love to see your take on Stokesay Castle, south of Craven Arms. It's not really a castle, more of a fortified manor house, but an interesting beautiful place never the less.

[@lemming9984]

I've been there a couple of times. A wonderful place.

[@thehistorysquad]

Yes, I performed there for a number of years, it's quite lovely. 👍🏻

[@georgejohnson1498]

More local stories of historic buildings I know. Your Goodrich castle vid got me subscribed! I went to a concert of Catholic Elisabethan music in Harvington Hall with a choir, and band of cornets [the wooden sort] and period trombones - or sackbuts as they are properly known. I went with my friend, the late Jim Bennett, who was curator of the Elgar Birthplace Museum, The Firs, Lower Broadheath. At the time Jim still had a car, but did not trust himself to drive as he was in the early stages of Parkinsonism. So I went from Hereford to Worcester and drove Jim in his car to the concert on a lovely summer's evening. We parked fairly close and a little Jack Russell Terrier came out of a doorway and pee'd on a wheel! I love dogs and called to him gently, "Hello, little one. Fancy a tickle!" He immediately rolled over for tummy fuss. He loved it. The owner came tumbling out say that he was a nasty snappy little son of the dirt!. I said that I have never had trouble with dogs. He told me the dog was thirteen and I was the first stranger he had communed with in all his days!. I was forgiven. It made my day, and the dog's ... Then we went into Harvington Hall for the pre-concert guided tour and saw the actual priest hide you showed first, by the bread oven. Amazing house. Amazing history. The concert was in the hall you showed! I love your vids! Thank you, and best wishes, George PS: I used to deliver ice cream to Coughton Court to the National Trust cafe there! PPS: Two vids of my current dog, given me last July as a rescue. She is called Lu, short for Luna: kzbin.info/www/bejne/oYWneYSYZ9hpqM0 kzbin.info/www/bejne/jmPPo3d4nahgrLc I hope you enjoy watching a little Patterdale Terrier coming back to being the happy creature that a settled Terrier should be! The first is a week after I was given her, and the second at the end of winter this year. She developed a lot even since then. She has almost completely given up barking!

[@thehistorysquad]

How lovely George, thanks for your comment & links. 👍🏻

[@JulieMrsP]

Fascinating to watch, as H. Hall is local to me, I pass it daily on my way to work, and I didn’t know about it’s rich history. Thank You for enlightening me, to this amazing building!

[@thehistorysquad]

Glad you enjoyed it, you should drop in one day, it’s beautiful and the cafe is fab.

[@stevenanthony199]

Hello Julie how are you doing today

[@rogerhupp3115]

Houses like these are so fascinating. You, sir, are a treasure! Much love from WV, United States.

[@meredithc2755]

I think this is the most fascinating episode yet! I love the last hidey-hole under the stairs. Awful, awful that Nicholas Owen was tortured to death and the priests were killed. Barbaric!

[@deancoopey1256]

Brilliant! Visiting here (and the commandry in Worcester) were my favourite childhood outings!!

[@stevenanthony199]

Hello Dean how are you doing today

[@tonybiddle6668]

Very well filmed and very clearly spoken - a pleasure to watch such a fascinating presentation. Five stars and more!

[@catherinemazzeo1163]

This presentation has been immensely informative and it has capture much more than history, but so much reflection and consideration for the era of the past and those who made it. Thank you ! I found the well water located in the cooking area so amazing, and all the religious references deeply touching. I can't even imagine what life must have been like for the religious faithful. Beautiful presentation. Immense thanks. I'd like to share some points with my students.

[@thehistorysquad]

How lovely, thank you. Feel free to share 👍🏻

[@joshuawagner2590]

Loved this video, Mr. Hicks! I've always enjoyed history, but exploring little places like this, places I likely would not have heard about if not for your channel, is truly amazing! It's awe-inspiring to stand in an old place, to see and touch old things from centuries ago. Thanks for the tour! :-)

[@adrianmcgachie]

Always fascinating listening and exploring with Kevin. I think if I had been this inspired at school, I'd be a proper historian today, too!

[@GeorgiaGeorgette]

I'm so sorry that your friends are gone. Thank you for sharing your memories of them as well as such a wealth of information about the house and its history.

[@thehistorysquad]

You're very kind, thank you for watching.

[@shirleythompson8251]

That was a fantastic video to watch. Your enthusiasm, narration and descriptions take me back in time where I can almost feel what it was like to live back then. Excellent 👏

[@thehistorysquad]

Cheers Shirley 👍🏻

[@blackwell61a]

Fantastic house, would love to own it and live there.

[@shaunmorrissey7313]

It's a bugger to heat

[@blackwell61a]

@@shaunmorrissey7313 Haha, I'm sure it is.

[@Kwillow666]

Just recently had my ancestry DNA come back mostly English, Scottish, Irish & Norwegian. It’s been my life dream to visit these amazing castles in my ancestors’ lands. Thank you Kevin! I wish I could visit these places in person with you as my navigator.

[@strang4alien54]

Yank

[@everilliem3292]

I've been lost on a binge of your content, you and your team do wonderful work, love it!

[@thehistorysquad]

Thanks buddy, we're just a team of two, my wife and I 👍🏻

[@SofiNme365]

Kevin Thank you for showing us this beautiful castle, it wouldn’t be fun without you! 🤗💙🙏

[@hemaccabe4292]

Even if one didn't need to be a fortress, having a moat could greatly enhance security. If you were hiding a priest, obviously it forced pursuivants to wait until you chose to open the door. Also, it meant the home's goods would be harder for thieves and dishonest servants to steal. Lastly, if the home was attacked, it would make defense far more feasible.

[@samright4661]

Kevin you’re the kind of person I could set down with a few drinks and just pick your brain about the 100 years war, Wars of the Rosses , both world wars, medieval arms . You have a wealth of Knowledge that peaks my Interest. You Sir are a Nation Treasure of The UK. I always learn something new every time I watch your videos

[@thehistorysquad]

That's very kind Sam. I have a video coming out in maybe a week or two about armour that you'll be interested in.

[@samright4661]

@@thehistorysquad Awesome looking forward to seeing it! And your very welcome Sir. Have a blessed Sunday

[@stevenanthony199]

Hello Sam how are you doing today

[@gwinniboots]

Fascinating! Lovely to see a place so untouched. Interesting history. Thanks. 👍

[@ianthomas739]

A lovely video. I have the same fascination as Kevin with our historical past and those that lived in those times. thanks Kevin

[@jackbrowning8013]

You're the best, Kevin and Julie! Condolences for the loss of your friends. I'm sure they'd love what you're doing with the channel.

[@thehistorysquad]

Cheers Jack, I think you're right, they would 👍🏻

[@garryreeve824]

Another excellent video Kevin, showing the darker side of English history. I didn't realise they would actually take days to search a house!

[@Madde3333]

Wonderful. The tour was informative yet entertaining. Thanks for documenting the hides and history.

[@MusicEchos]

Thank you for showing these "hides". They give me ideas for safe-rooms.

[@kurnuyt5742]

You sir , are the most perfect tour guide i have ever seen in my whole life( i am past 50 years by the way ) That was a fantastic explanation , truly fascinating indeed .

[@thehistorysquad]

Thank you so much!

[@teresabriney9494]

Excellent video!! Always interested to know more about the Elizabethan age. Please keep the videos coming.

[@stevenanthony199]

Hello Teresa how are you doing today

[@anneosbourne944]

This was so interesting. Thank you to Kevin Hicks who told the stories perfectly.

[@stevenanthony199]

Hello Anne how are you doing today

[@thurayya8905]

This was just delightful -- history you can actually touch! I am so grateful that this house was made to last and no one foolishly tore it down. Thank you for the walk through.

[@XXX-xn1hh]

love the movies you make, more tours like these please, castles houses, cool ! Love the way you tell things....

[@teresaf4251]

LOVE this channel! I was in aww watching it. I put myself in that time period imagining what it would’ve been like hiding in those hideouts! First time hearing of that amazing and brave man Nicholas Owen too! Thanks for showing us around and explaining as you go- you’re definitely gifted at storytelling and captivating people!!!! Thanks again! ☺️👍

[@thehistorysquad]

My pleasure, thank you for watching 👍🏻

[@joetheplumber5781]

It doesn't pong! Kevin is a master of making history a fun humorous experience! Thank you!

[@user-ow2db2on2m]

You have made my day with your excitement about showing us the Harvington Hall. I love the smile you get when you talk about the secrets! Thank you so much!

[@thehistorysquad]

Glad you enjoyed it, thanks for watching 👍🏻

[@mcwoomanor4880]

What a wonderful insight into the History of our Country, your doing an amazing job of showing it all to us and explaining what was behind it all, thank you ❤

[@carolinehaythornthwaite2965]

Thank you for an amazing house tour. It reminds me of the Winchester House, California, which whilst of a slightly different character (!) also has so many different levels and quirky features.

[@thehistorysquad]

Yes, I've heard of that place and it sounds absolutely fascinating.....one day for us perhaps 👍🏻

[@carolinehaythornthwaite2965]

@@thehistorysquad you know, you can be environmentally friendly and find a Virtual tour online. It's not the same as the real thing , but it's certainly realistic!

[@thehistorysquad]

@@carolinehaythornthwaite2965 I'll maybe take a look, thanks 👍🏻

[@stevenanthony199]

Hello Caroline how are you doing today

[@mrs.cracker4622]

Truly a blessing to watch this tour with you. Many, many thanks!

[@alanaitcheson9403]

The History Squad's love of history and portraying it is amazing. It's about time the BBC gave you a show of your own.

[@stevenanthony199]

Hello Alanait how are you doing today

[@sharktails6468]

i do love all your videos have done for a while

[@thehistorysquad]

Cheers Shark 👍🏻

[@davidcreager1945]

What a beautiful and amazing house ! I wish I had one like it , especially the moat ! Thanks for sharing this amazing landmark with us !!!

[@fionaparkinson3821]

Those little things that make this house so unique are extremely clever. Just the idea of hiding a hide behind a hidden treasure store! They found the treasure and stopped looking!

[@stevenanthony199]

Hello Fion how are you doing today

[@Galaxyofbrian]

A brilliant documentary and a wonderful house. Thanks for sharing.

[@keepitsimple4629]

It's so refreshing to come to your videos, with the world news so horrifying and depressing. A great escape. Always well done.

[@Trillock-hy1cf]

I find this house amazing, especially the Builders/Architects who designed all the hidey holes to keep them secret for the Priests to hide in, and the crews who built it without the help of dump trucks, concrete mixers, JCB's, cranes, scaffolding and all the other modern building machines. A fantastic house and no doubt a nightmare to maintain all the buildings around the main house. I guess this house today would cost millions of quids to build it, and who did, must be rolling in money from an money pit with no bottom to it......😄

[@sgilbert5753]

Delightfully informative, your explanations bring the history and architecture to life. Absolutely fascinating about the well water being filtered by the sandstone.

[@jellyb1945]

Oh I love it when I get recommended new channels and I fall in love with them. Means I get to go back and binge watch all the previous videos. Love your enthusiasm and knowledge. Absolutely brilliant. ❤

[@thehistorysquad]

Excellent!! Thanks jellyb 👍

[@sarahfellows6608]

Really enjoy ur videos thank you so much for bringing history to life ❤

[@stevenanthony199]

Hello Sarah how are you doing today

[@valior9]

Long time viewer frist time commenting thank you kevin for everything you do youve shown me so much cool history that I had no clue about I have much respect for you good sir keep up the great work! I especially love the medieval surgery stuff you do and im sure youve heard this before but id love more videos about medieval healthcare it really fascinates me and you do such a amazing job.

[@EleyReiHer]

What an extraordinary manor house. The higgledy-piggledy part is what made it unique and cute!

[@mrmisc8427]

This was superb, what a fascinating house. Saint Nicholas Owens, what a guy.