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Lady Isabel Burton and the Burton Mausoleum – An illustrated talk with Dr Helen Brown

Wednesday 25th February

Join us for a fascinating evening exploring the remarkable life of Lady Isabel Burton—author, explorer, and formidable Victorian woman—alongside the extraordinary story of the Burton Mausoleum, one of the most distinctive monuments of its kind.

Following the death of her husband, the renowned explorer Sir Richard Francis Burton, Lady Isabel commissioned the now Grade II* listed Burton Mausoleum. This striking structure forms the heart of the Burton: Exploring Without Boundaries heritage project and offers a powerful lens through which to view love, legacy, faith, and Victorian attitudes to death and remembrance.

About the Speaker

Dr Helen Brown is a Heritage Projects Officer at the Habitats & Heritage. She has led the conservation and interpretation programme for Burton: Exploring Without Boundaries and currently works on Habitats & Heritage’s latest National Lottery Heritage Fund project, Sir Joseph Bazalgette and the Great Stink of London.

What to Expect

In this illustrated talk, Dr Brown will:

– Explore Lady Isabel Burton’s life, travels, and influence
– Reflect on her partnership with Sir Richard Francis Burton
– Unpack the symbolism and significance of the Burton Mausoleum
– Place Isabel Burton firmly back into her rightful historical context

 

Event Details

Date: 25 February 2026
Time: 18:00
Tickets: £5 members | £10 non-members available from Eventbrite (fees apply): click here

Refreshments

A selection of soft drinks will be available.

Whether you are interested in Victorian history, remarkable women, local heritage, or architectural curiosities, this promises to be a richly engaging evening.