大象传媒

Country houses have been the subject of hot debate since the National Trust and others decided to tell the stories of how colonialism and trade in enslaved people helped fund many great estates. But 50 years ago the country house, beleaguered by taxation and public hostility, faced ruin. 1500 houses were demolished in the years up to 1970s. Then in 1974, Sir Roy Strong and others mounted a dramatic exhibition at the V&A highlighting the loss. This prompted a change in the tax regime and in public opinion.

Tristram Hunt, current director of the Victoria and Albert museum, tells the story and looks at how great houses are making their money today. How appropriate are the events and entertainments they provide? Why is most of the money made in the grounds, not the houses themselves?

Many believe that the houses are in danger once again and that their stories need reframing to attract a new and more diverse audience - getting away from dull and static tours that feature undue reverence for the owners and their ancestral families. This is a moment of intense re-thinking about how country houses can contribute to the cultural life of the country - beyond just being 'leisure parks'.

Recorded around the country in several grand houses.

Presenter : Tristram Hunt
Producer : Susan Marling
A Just Radio production for 大象传媒 Radio 4