Home
Membership
Nell Gwyn: life of the week

Nell Gwyn: life of the week

Sophie Shorland charts the spectacular rise of one of the Restoration era's most colourful characters

Ellie Cawthorne

Published: January 14, 2025 at 7:30 AM

Save

Share on facebook
Share on twitter
Share on whatsapp
Email to a friend

Nell Gwyn epitomised the wild spirit of the Restoration era. An orange-seller turned actress, turned royal mistress of King Charles II, she hustled her way to the very top with charm, wisecracks and withering putdowns. Sophie Shorland tells Ellie Cawthorne more about Gwyn's rags-to-riches story in this 'life of the week' episode.

Authors

Ellie CawthorneHead of content (audio)

Ellie Cawthorne is head of content (audio) at HistoryExtra