Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen's Escape to the Country - The Sporting Estate

In this episode of Escape to the Country, Laurence Llewelyn Bowen explores the idea of the sporting estate, at its zenith in the 19th century. Hunting and shooting were increasingly popular with the newly rich Victorians who saw the country house as the ultimate symbol of power. Not only a setting of recreation it was also the ideal place to network, show off your political connections, along with fine crystal, bespoke china and wealth- after Queen Victoria and Prince Albert established a love of grouse shooting in Scotland, their son Edward Albert - later King Edward VII famously moved between shooting estates, enjoying the lavish entertainment and sport of his host - one legendary party was held at Highclere Castle -the setting for this programme and where Laurence discusses the countryside with the present Countess of Carnarvon. Producer: Kate Bland A Just Radio production for BBC Radio 4.