The Workhouse | One Step Up From Prison?

The Workhouse | One Step Up From Prison?

From Back When | History Podcast by National Trust

January 28, 2026 · 25 min

About this episode

James Grasby explores the life and conditions at The Workhouse in Nottinghamshire.

What was life like at The Workhouse? Join James Grasby as he becomes an inmate and tours an atmospheric Workhouse building in Nottinghamshire. With its bare walls and floors, cast iron beds, and the hollering voices of costumed re-enactors, a visit to the Southwell Workhouse is a sobering experience. [Ad] This podcast is sponsored by CEWE, Europe’s leading photo printing company. Every image you capture tells a story. Discover ideas for curating your special memories and creating gifts for loved ones. From the award-winning CEWE PHOTOBOOK to wall art made from your favourite photos. Start creating your story at www.cewe.co.uk Production Host: James Grasby Producer: Claire Hickinbotham Sound Editor: Jesus Gomez Contributors With thanks to the staff and volunteers at The Workhouse and Infirmary and Steven King | Nottingham Trent University Discover more Find out more about the history of The Workhouse and Infirmary www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/nottinghamshire-lincolnshire/the-workhouse-and-infirmary

People in this episode

Host: James Grasby

Topics covered

  • Workhouse
  • History
  • Life in the Workhouse
  • Nottinghamshire
  • Costumed Re-enactors

Keywords

  • Workhouse
  • Nottinghamshire
  • James Grasby
  • history
  • costumed re-enactors
  • Southwell Workhouse
  • National Trust

Sponsors

CEWE

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Nottingham Trent University, National Trust

Places: Nottinghamshire, Southwell Workhouse

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