Nell Gwyn: England's mistress

About this episode

This episode explores the life of Nell Gwyn, her relationship with Charles II, and her influence in the court.

Nell Gwyn became famous for her love affair with Charles II, and for her love of drinking, gambling and carousing. Yet, as this Long Read written by Sophie Shorland explores, this upwardly mobile celebrity was also a canny political operator who wielded substantial power in court. Today's feature originally appeared in the April 2026 issue of HistoryExtra Magazine, and has been voiced in partnership with the RNIB. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

People in this episode

Host: Sophie Shorland

Topics covered

• Nell Gwyn
• Charles II
• political power
• 17th century England
• celebrity culture
• court life

Keywords

• Nell Gwyn
• Charles II
• political operator
• court power
• celebrity
• drinking
• gambling

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: HistoryExtra Magazine, RNIB

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