The Ramblers Podcast

The Ramblers - Nigel & Iain

A podcast exploring assorted topics, including interviews and walks across the Cranborne Chase National Landscape catchment area. Our goal is to create a platform that educates, inspires all.

  1. FEB 23

    Ep16- Blacksmith, MetalWorker and Craftsman - Ian Thackray

    Send a text Summary In this episode of The Ramblers podcast, Ian Thackray discusses his journey into blacksmithing, the evolution of techniques, and the influence of local landscapes on his work. He shares insights on the collaborative nature of the craft, the challenges faced in modern blacksmithing, and the importance of teaching the next generation. The conversation also touches on his experiences in television and the future of blacksmithing in a technology-driven world. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Blacksmithing and the Podcast 02:45 The Evolution of Blacksmithing Techniques 05:31 Personal Journey into Blacksmithing 08:07 Understanding the Craft: Tools and Techniques 10:35 Influences of the Local Landscape on Work 13:25 Collaborative Projects and Community Engagement 16:02 Challenges and Inspirations in Blacksmithing 18:47 The Role of Blacksmithing in Modern Society 21:41 Television Appearances and Public Engagement 24:12 Teaching the Craft: Experience Days 26:44 The Future of Blacksmithing and Technology 29:40 Final Thoughts and Reflections https://www.villagesmith.co.uk/ https://cranbornechase.org.uk/  https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x3gso3g https://www.channel4.com/programmes/the-great-british-dig-history-in-your-garden/on-demand/72396-002 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZbF8nvfeh0I The Chase & Chalke Landscape Partnership, supported by funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund – thank you to lottery players for making this possible. Cranborne Chase National Landscape. Cranborne Chase is a ‘protected landscape’, legally designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Music from https://uppbeat.io/t/light-patterns/grassland License code: KCZ1C17MC3KJJGC7 -ep 3 C1P05X6Z59HGCVGZ -ep 4 K6RMWCOGP2ZLIEKS -ep 5 UKZH6JCGAT2ETG8R -ep6 VWFSH9MMXMSJEHZR -ep7 ZU0WVY0X4Z86TNQT -ep8 LTOXU4BNX9QWUMAS -ep9 Artwork for Podcast created by Claire Atkinson

    1h 1m
  2. JAN 22

    Ep15 - 'Actual walk' - Burcombe and the Punch Bowl W1

    Send a text Summary In this episode of The Ramblers, hosts Nigel and Iain explore the stunning Cranbourne Chase National Landscape, discussing the beauty of the area, the challenges posed by weather, and the technology that aids in navigation. They share observations of local wildlife, geological features, and the cultural significance of the landscape, while also engaging with their listeners through emails and feedback. The conversation highlights the joys and challenges of outdoor adventures, emphasising the importance of community and nature appreciation. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Cranbourne Chase National Landscape 02:34 Exploring the Route and Technology in Navigation 05:23 Weather Challenges and Walk Preparations 07:41 Nature Observations and Local Wildlife 09:34 Geological Features and Historical Context 12:10 Technical Features of Navigation Tools 14:24 Flora and Fauna Observations 16:42 Ascent to the Punch Bowl and Scenic Views 18:57 Descent and Reflections on the Walk 21:02 Cultural and Historical Significance of the Area 23:16 Final Thoughts and Listener Engagement https://cranbornechase.org.uk/ https://cranbornechase.org.uk/explore/burcombe-and-the-punch-bowl/ https://www.chettlevillagestore.co.uk/ https://www.instagram.com/the.ramblerspodcast/ The Chase & Chalke Landscape Partnership, supported by funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund – thank you to lottery players for making this possible. Cranborne Chase National Landscape. Cranborne Chase is a ‘protected landscape’, legally designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Music from https://uppbeat.io/t/light-patterns/grassland License code: KCZ1C17MC3KJJGC7 -ep 3 C1P05X6Z59HGCVGZ -ep 4 K6RMWCOGP2ZLIEKS -ep 5 UKZH6JCGAT2ETG8R -ep6 VWFSH9MMXMSJEHZR -ep7 ZU0WVY0X4Z86TNQT -ep8 LTOXU4BNX9QWUMAS -ep9 Artwork for Podcast created by Claire Atkinson

    58 min
  3. 12/10/2025

    Episode 14 - Virtual walk - Burcombe and the Punch Bowl – W1

    Send a text Summary In this episode of The Ramblers podcast, hosts Nigel and Iain explore the Cranbourne Chase National Landscape, discussing their experiences and insights from a virtual walk. They delve into the history, wildlife, and community aspects of the area, while also engaging with listeners and reflecting on their podcast journey. The conversation highlights the importance of conservation and the rich cultural heritage of the region, setting the stage for future episodes. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene 02:34 Exploring Cranbourne Chase National Landscape 05:07 Virtual Walk and Listener Engagement 08:00 Points of Interest in Burcombe Village 10:26 Historical Significance of the Area 13:07 Wildlife and Conservation Efforts 15:47 Future Plans and Listener Interaction 18:25 Wrap-Up and Reflections 21:06 Looking Ahead to Season Two https://cranbornechase.org.uk/explore/burcombe-and-the-punch-bowl/ https://www.chettlevillagestore.co.uk/ The Chase & Chalke Landscape Partnership, supported by funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund – thank you to lottery players for making this possible. Cranborne Chase National Landscape. Cranborne Chase is a ‘protected landscape’, legally designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Music from https://uppbeat.io/t/light-patterns/grassland License code: KCZ1C17MC3KJJGC7 -ep 3 C1P05X6Z59HGCVGZ -ep 4 K6RMWCOGP2ZLIEKS -ep 5 UKZH6JCGAT2ETG8R -ep6 VWFSH9MMXMSJEHZR -ep7 ZU0WVY0X4Z86TNQT -ep8 LTOXU4BNX9QWUMAS -ep9 Artwork for Podcast created by Claire Atkinson

    28 min
  4. 11/05/2025

    Episode 13 - Martin Green: A Journey Through Time and Archaeology - Part Four

    Send a text Summary In this episode of The Ramblers, Nigel and Iain explore the Cranbourne Chase National Landscape, delving into its rich history, archaeological significance, and the vibrant communities that inhabit the area. They discuss the Dorset Cursus, its construction, and the cultural practices surrounding burial mounds. The conversation also highlights the role of aerial photography in uncovering archaeological features and the importance of documenting findings for future generations. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Cranbourne Chase National Landscape 00:56 Exploring the Dorset Cursus 05:13 The Significance of the Cursus and Its Construction 09:36 Cultural and Social Aspects of the Cursus 12:15 Aerial Photography and Archaeological Discoveries 16:08 Investigating Burial Practices and Mounds 21:07 The Iron Age Settlement and Training Digs 29:33 The Importance of Documentation in Archaeology The Chase & Chalke Landscape Partnership, supported by funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund – thank you to lottery players for making this possible. Cranborne Chase National Landscape. Cranborne Chase is a ‘protected landscape’, legally designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Music from https://uppbeat.io/t/light-patterns/grassland License code: KCZ1C17MC3KJJGC7 -ep 3 C1P05X6Z59HGCVGZ -ep 4 K6RMWCOGP2ZLIEKS -ep 5 UKZH6JCGAT2ETG8R -ep6 VWFSH9MMXMSJEHZR -ep7 ZU0WVY0X4Z86TNQT -ep8 LTOXU4BNX9QWUMAS -ep9 Artwork for Podcast created by Claire Atkinson

    37 min
  5. 09/14/2025

    Episode 11 Martin Green: A Journey Through Time and Archaeology - Part Two

    Send a text Summary This podcast episode explores the rich history and archaeology of the Cranbourne Chase National Landscape, covering various periods from the Iron Age to the medieval era. The conversation delves into significant archaeological finds, the importance of conservation, and the personal connection of the speakers to the land and its history. The discussion also highlights the role of metal detecting in uncovering artefacts and the geological significance of the area.  Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Cranbourne Chase National Landscape 01:41 Exploring Iron Age and Roman Archaeology 05:13 Medieval History and the Declares Family 10:28 Saxon Artefacts and Their Significance 15:45 The Role of Metal Detecting in Archaeology 20:29 Geology and Fossils of the Dorset Coast 25:55 Personal Journey and Connection to the Land The Chase & Chalke Landscape Partnership, supported by funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund – thank you to lottery players for making this possible. Cranborne Chase National Landscape. Cranborne Chase is a ‘protected landscape’, legally designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Music from https://uppbeat.io/t/light-patterns/grassland License code: KCZ1C17MC3KJJGC7 -ep 3 C1P05X6Z59HGCVGZ -ep 4 K6RMWCOGP2ZLIEKS -ep 5 UKZH6JCGAT2ETG8R -ep6 VWFSH9MMXMSJEHZR -ep7 ZU0WVY0X4Z86TNQT -ep8 LTOXU4BNX9QWUMAS -ep9 Artwork for Podcast created by Claire Atkinson

    36 min
  6. 08/12/2025

    Episode 10 Martin Green: A Journey Through Time and Archaeology - Part One

    Send a text Summary This podcast episode explores the rich archaeological landscape of Cranbourne Chase, featuring an in-depth conversation with Martin Green, an archaeologist who shares insights about the area's history, significant archaeological finds, and the importance of conservation. The discussion covers various topics, including the Stone Age, the Dorset Cursus, flint knapping, and the role of community in archaeology, all while highlighting Martin's personal journey and contributions to the field. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to The Ramblers Podcast 01:47 Exploring Martin Green's Archaeological Journey 02:42 The Museum Tour Begins 04:52 Local Archaeological Finds 08:47 Understanding the Stone Age and Its Context 11:14 Cranborne Chase: A Landscape of Archaeology 13:13 Excavation Insights and Discoveries 14:54 The Purpose of Cursus Monuments 17:36 Celebration and Rituals in Neolithic Times 18:21 Unique Flint Artefacts and Their Significance 22:53 Personal Connections to Archaeology 25:57 The Craft of Flint Knapping 28:00 The Transition to Biodynamic Farming 32:58 Exploring Archaeological Discoveries 40:32 Layers of History in Farming 48:06 Connections to the Past through Artefacts https://www.instagram.com/the.ramblerspodcast/ https://cranbornechase.org.uk/ https://www.digitaldigging.net/neolithic-complex-monkton-wimborne/ https://heritage.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/Event/EDO6985 https://archaeology.co.uk/join-in/research-body/martin-green.htm  https://hbsmrweb-dorset.esdm.co.uk/Monument/MDO40187 https://cranbornechase.org.uk/chalkeboard/casting-back-to-iron-age-chettle-with-martin-green/ https://www.davidabram.co.uk/ The Chase & Chalke Landscape Partnership, supported by funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund – thank you to lottery players for making this possible. Cranborne Chase National Landscape. Cranborne Chase is a ‘protected landscape’, legally designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Music from https://uppbeat.io/t/light-patterns/grassland License code: KCZ1C17MC3KJJGC7 -ep 3 C1P05X6Z59HGCVGZ -ep 4 K6RMWCOGP2ZLIEKS -ep 5 UKZH6JCGAT2ETG8R -ep6 VWFSH9MMXMSJEHZR -ep7 ZU0WVY0X4Z86TNQT -ep8 LTOXU4BNX9QWUMAS -ep9 Artwork for Podcast created by Claire Atkinson

    1 hr

About

A podcast exploring assorted topics, including interviews and walks across the Cranborne Chase National Landscape catchment area. Our goal is to create a platform that educates, inspires all.