About Philippa

Where should everyone visit?

I think everyone should visit Salisbury Cathedral at some point. Not only is it a stunning piece of Medieval architecture (and it's floating) but it has so much more to see, not least an original 1215 Magna Carta.

Favourite era in British History

The Tudors - because, despite the dynasty lasting less than 118 years, each of the five Tudor monarchs left an indelible mark on our culture and landscape.

What book are you reading?

I've just finished 'Julian of Norwich' by Dr Janina Ramierez and now I'm onto 'Upstairs Downstairs' about the life of country house servants through history, by Jeremy Musson.

Favourite UK historic place

Dunster, Somerset. It's beautiful, tranquil and steeped in history. There's the high street with its market place and taverns, the working mill and topping the hill, a castle!

Favourite historic place abroad

Rome! It's so rich in history you literally fall over it as you walk around.

Favourite character in history

This changes, but recently I've been looking in the life of Nelson. He is a fascinating character, his self-belief and confidence in his own destiny was incredible!

Where could I keep going back to?

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, for Henry VIII's Mary Rose and Nelson's HMS Victory.

Where's a hidden gem?

Harvington Hall in North Worcestershire. Tudor moated house with the most number of remaining priest holes known in the UK.

  • Where should everyone visit?

    I think everyone should visit Salisbury Cathedral at some point. Not only is it a stunning piece of Medieval architecture (and it's floating) but it has so much more to see, not least an original 1215 Magna Carta.

  • Favourite era in British History

    The Tudors - because, despite the dynasty lasting less than 118 years, each of the five Tudor monarchs left an indelible mark on our culture and landscape.

  • What book are you reading?

    I've just finished 'Julian of Norwich' by Dr Janina Ramierez and now I'm onto 'Upstairs Downstairs' about the life of country house servants through history, by Jeremy Musson.

  • Favourite UK historic place

    Dunster, Somerset. It's beautiful, tranquil and steeped in history. There's the high street with its market place and taverns, the working mill and topping the hill, a castle!

  • Favourite historic place abroad

    Rome! It's so rich in history you literally fall over it as you walk around.

  • Favourite character in history

    This changes, but recently I've been looking in the life of Nelson. He is a fascinating character, his self-belief and confidence in his own destiny was incredible!

  • Where could I keep going back to?

    Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, for Henry VIII's Mary Rose and Nelson's HMS Victory.

  • Where's a hidden gem?

    Harvington Hall in North Worcestershire. Tudor moated house with the most number of remaining priest holes known in the UK.

    Philippa has written for

    City Jet

    City Jet

    My name is Philippa Lacey Brewell and I live in Central England. I started writing and speaking about travelling through Britain’s history in 2012 and haven’t stopped since. I have the most animated face when talking about history (honestly, it’s amazing!) but I have had to learn to make my voice as loud as my expressions! I make the most amazing chocolate brownies but have not yet learnt to share them.

    My History Travel Guides are used by travellers, those dreaming of travelling the UK and anyone who loves British History.

    I have written for BBC History Magazine, inline inflight magazines for CityJet and FlyBe and for Tudor Life Magazine.

    You can find my blog and podcasts on the website. 

    Please take a look around the site.  If you have any questions please contact me at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.