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14 minutes
First broadcast: on BBC Radio 4 FMLatest broadcast: on BBC Radio 4 LW
When King Charles II returns to the throne in 1660 he installs his beautiful mistress Barbara Villiers at the centre of his court. Show more
14 minutes
First broadcast: on BBC Radio 4 FMLatest broadcast: on BBC Radio 4 LW
A year after his return to England, Charles II marries Catherine of Braganza, only to humiliate her by insisting his mistresses continue to play a prominent part in court life. Show more
14 minutes
First broadcast: on BBC Radio 4 FMLatest broadcast: on BBC Radio 4 LW
The most popular of the king’s mistresses, and the most well-known, was the characterful actress Nell Gwyn, loved by the people for her indelicate and down to earth qualities. Show more
14 minutes
First broadcast: on BBC Radio 4 FMLatest broadcast: on BBC Radio 4 LW
The woman who stayed close to the king until he died was the French girl, Louise de Keroualle, who took the art of networking to new heights. Show more
14 minutes
First broadcast: on BBC Radio 4 FMLatest broadcast: on BBC Radio 4 FM
Charles II’s last mistress was the Italian Hortense Mancini, the Duchess Mazarin, who had left her unhinged husband to seek security in England. Show more
