Spotlight on Associate member Anna-Karin Hanson

If you were not doing your current job, what would you be doing?

That’s a difficult question because I truly love my job at English Heritage. It’s a perfect blend of my love for history and working within the tourism industry.  When I was younger, I dreamed of pursuing a doctorate in history and becoming a professor, I imagined myself in a small office in a remote castle, surrounded by books and writing complex essays—probably ones that wouldn’t get much attention! In retrospect, I think it’s for the best that I chose a different career path. It allows me to share my love for history and tourism with others in a more engaging way!

Do you have a hidden talent?

I can play drums reasonably well. I was even in a band when I was younger. I also have a horse and used to take part in various competitions. Now, I prefer to hack out in the countryside with my horse, Bertie.

If you could spend a day in someone else’s shoes, whose would they be? Why?

I think I’d prefer to be a fly on the wall and witness the lives of several fascinating figures. I’d love to observe Thomas Cromwell during the dissolution of the monasteries, as it was such a pivotal moment in history. Additionally, I’d be intrigued to see the court of Queen Christina of Sweden, known for her intelligence and progressive thinking. Emmeline Pankhurst’s efforts in the suffrage movement would also be inspiring to witness. And of course, I wouldn’t want to miss the chance to see the builders of Stonehenge at work thousands of years ago.  I would be a very busy fly!

What is your favourite holiday memory from childhood?

I didn’t experience many international holidays as a child, but living on the west coast of Sweden meant I was surrounded by the sea. I have many memories of  lovely days at the beach, swimming, having picnics and playing with friends.  My dad would often take us out on our small sailing boat, which was very exciting. Sometimes we collected mussels for dinner, which would be prepared and cooked on the beach. It felt like it was always sunny during my childhood summers!

What is the best thing about being involved with AGTO?

I think that the best thing about being involved with AGTO as a partner is the invaluable opportunity to connect directly with the dedicated group travel organizers. It gives me a great opportunity to build relationships, gain visibility and get the chance to arrange fam trips and do presentations of English Heritage’s many sites. It is also a lovely community and I am so impressed with the engagement of the AGTO members in finding new tour ideas and opportunities.

English heritage

English Heritage cares for over 400 historic monuments, buildings, and sites, ranging from iconic prehistoric sites like Stonehenge to majestic medieval castles, historic houses and gardens, Roman forts on the fringes of an empire, and even a Cold War bunker.

There is no better way for your groups to experience England’s story than to visit the places where it really happened.

We offer group rates at all our sites, and many of our sites provide the option for private guided tours and refreshments, including afternoon teas.

Please contact our friendly Travel Trade team on TravelTrade@english-heritage.org.uk to find out more or visit our website, www.english-heritage.org.uk