Episodes

  • 100 Years of Sir David Attenborough
    May 12 2026

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    This week we celebrate the 100th birthday of one of the greatest natural history broadcasters of all time, Sir David Attenborough.

    We look back at his illustrious career and his many achievements throughout the decades, as well as the incredible legacy he has created.

    From helping to form the BBC as we know it, to creating documentaries that have taught and touched the heart of millions, his words are as meaningful as his voice is instantly recognisable.

    Instead of our usual ridiculous death, we look at one of the most bizarre creatures in nature and try to puzzle out its place.


    Credit for the music on today's episode goes to Simon Folwar for Feast Days, courtesy of Uppbeat.

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    1 hr and 1 min
  • Polter-guess Today's Topic!
    Apr 29 2026

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    Welcome back, dear listeners, to our first returning Dark Cup Histortea.

    This week we discuss stories around that most chaotic of spirits, the poltergeist. We look at some famous examples and theories around how they came to be, as well as all of the forms they take.

    If you have a podcast that you would like us to promote, or if you're from a historic organisation and would like some more footfall, why not send us an email to cupofhistortea@outlook.com or send us a message through www.buzzsprout.com/208911.

    Credit for the music for today's episode goes to Albert Behar for "Creepy Crypt" courtesy of Uppbeat.

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    30 mins
  • Bake Off: Alfred's Great Attempt
    Apr 15 2026

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    This week, we're getting back in the swing of things by bringing to light a historical legend, Alfred the Great.

    We talk about his youth, his unexpected rise to power and the threats he faced to his reign. We also bust some myths along the way (sorry, cake fans).

    As always, we end the show with a bit of morbid humour with this week's ridiculous death, where you learn that it is always wise to look out for hidden swine.

    Thanks for the music goes to Simon Folwar ('Feast Days') and GFX Sounds ('Cartoon fail music') - available through Uppbeat.

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    28 mins
  • Still Biting Off More Than We Can Tudor
    Apr 1 2026

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    Yes, dear listeners, we are back. Starting with an apology and update about our absence and then leading into the third instalment of the Histortea Awards.

    Check out our socials on how you can help decide two of the award categories, with winners to be revealed in a later episode.

    Music courtesy of Simon Folwar via Uppbeat: 'Feast Days'.

    Sound effects courtesy of GFX Sounds and Soundroll via Uppbeat (and Emily Bush).

    Trigger warning, does contain some mention of suicide and genocide.


    No emus were harmed in the making of this episode.

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    1 hr and 33 mins
  • Episode 5 - Lest We Forget
    Nov 11 2024

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    This Armistice Day we have chosen to mark the day by speaking about one of the reasons it is so important to look back and remember, to try and prevent history from repeating itself. Together we go through a brief overview of the lead up to and the main events of the Second World War from 1939-1945.

    And to bring a little hope back to the world, we end the episode with a tale of survival.

    To those who have given their lives for our freedom in conflicts past and present, and those who continue to fight - thank you.

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    1 hr and 12 mins
  • Episode U - Be A-Were, There's Wolves About!
    Oct 26 2024

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    This week as the potentially penultimate episode of Spooktober we dive into all things Werewolves. What are they? How do you become one? How do you spot one? How do you stop one? Join us as we ask these questions and many more.

    In this week's ridiculous death we look at what to do if you think your former miserable mayor has come back to terrorise the town as a werewolf. Hint, it involves dress-up.

    Music Credits:
    Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

    https://uppbeat.io/t/kevin-macleod/hidden-past

    License code: 6LLPEKMHAHLTPS4R

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    1 hr and 3 mins
  • Episode T - We're On Our Mary Way Now
    Oct 19 2024

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    This week we discuss the mother of horror science-fiction, Mary Shelley. We talk about her life, her upbringing and the fateful night when her most famous creation was born.

    And in this week's ridiculous death we explore the real dangers of napping near turkeys.

    Disclaimer: This week's episode contains mentions of suicide and incest. Listener discretion is advised.

    Music Credits:
    Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

    https://uppbeat.io/t/kevin-macleod/hidden-past

    License code: 6LLPEKMHAHLTPS4R

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    40 mins
  • Episode S - No Clowning Around About This Killer
    Oct 13 2024

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    This week we continue our Spooktober with a look at a serial killer responsible for at least 33 known murders - John Wayne Gacey, a.k.a. The Killer Clown.

    Disclaimer: This week's episode contains description of murder, sexual assault, paedophilia, torture and necrophilia. Listeners discretion is strongly advised.

    Music Credits:
    Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

    https://uppbeat.io/t/kevin-macleod/hidden-past

    License code: 6LLPEKMHAHLTPS4R



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    1 hr and 10 mins