Digging Up Britain's Past

Season 2

Presenters Helen Skelton and Alex Langlands explore some of the most fascinating periods of British history through current archaeological excavations around the country.

Where to Watch Digging Up Britain's Past • Season 2

6 Episodes

The Lost Roman Town
E1
The Lost Roman TownArchaeologists and presenters Raksha Dave and Alex Langlands return to explore more fascinating periods in British history through archaeological digs. In the first episode, the pair join a team from Reading University at a site in Silchester, near Reading, as they examine one of the best-preserved Roman sites in Britain.
The Royal Navy's Greatest Ship
E2
The Royal Navy's Greatest ShipWhen Nelson defeated Napoleon in his magnificent HMS Victory, he owed much of his success to another ship - HMS Invincible. This vessel transformed our navy and taught it about organisation and ship design.
The Real Game of Thrones
E3
The Real Game of ThronesStories of a group of power-hungry bishops living some 700 years ago give the feuding factions of Game of Thrones a run for their money. A team of archaeologists descend on County Durham to learn more.
Industrial Revolution - Bridgewater
E4
Industrial Revolution - BridgewaterCenturies ago, canals were the liquid highways of Britain, transporting raw materials and finished goods all over the country. Their arrival kick-started the Industrial Revolution, which was to turn Britain into a superpower. The very first water superhighway was the Bridgewater Canal, completed in 1761 to carry coal to Manchester from the mines in Worsley. Here, a team of archaeologists from Salford University roots out this industrial past, working with volunteers to excavate the very coal mine that inspired the creation of the canal.
The Real War Horse
E5
The Real War HorseMore than one million horses worked for the British military in WWI. Historians and veterans join forces to unearth the stories behind a Yorkshire garrison's stables. Plus, the horse the Germans could not kill.
Elizabeth I
E6
Elizabeth IIn 1592, Elizabeth visited magnificent Sudeley Castle for a three-day party to end all parties, which included the creation of a spectacular garden. 500 hundred years later, a team of archaeologists hunt for this lost gem.