Every year during Shrove Tuesday and Ash Wednesday, the town of Ashbourne in England comes alive with a unique and chaotic game of football spanning three miles. In "Rules of the Game," join Dave Hart as he immerses himself in this centuries-old tradition, striving to become a part of the tight-knit community and experience the thrill of the game like a local.

The Rules of the Game

Travel journalist Simon Calder embarks on a fascinating journey through the south of England, utilizing various modes of transportation to explore the legacy of the Beeching railway cuts. In this documentary, Simon delves into the historical significance of the branch lines that were closed in the 1960s and examines the ongoing debate surrounding their potential reopening. A compelling exploration of transportation history and the impact of past decisions on present-day travel infrastructure.

Reviving Train Tracks For Better Travel

Stonehenge, England's enigmatic ancient monument, holds a mysterious history dating back to before the Egyptian Pyramids. Standing tall on a vast plain, the colossal stones pose questions about their purpose and construction. Linked to Celtic druids, Stonehenge's origins remain veiled in mystery. Journey back 5000 years to uncover how these immense stones were transported over 200 miles and erected using primitive tools. Discover the secrets of this ancient marvel as modern forensic techniques shed light on human remains unearthed nearby, revealing the faces of those possibly involved in its creation.

Who Built Stonehenge?

In 1940, the Nazis invaded British Channel Islands, documenting the harrowing experience and complexities of occupation from 1940 to 1945 - collaboration and resistance, heroism and infamy, repression and violence. Meeting at the intersection of conquerors and the conquered, witness the turmoil, resilience, and humanity that defined the everyday lives of ordinary people during the harsh German Occupation.

Channel Islands, 1940: When The Nazis Invaded England

The Middle Men explores the personal journeys of eight middle-aged men in England as they navigate through addiction recovery, career changes, marital commitments, separation, entrepreneurial pursuits, inner peace, depression, and returning to single life. In a world where societal shifts like feminism and economic uncertainty shape the concept of masculinity, these men face unique challenges as they redefine their roles in the 21st century.

The Middle Men

Despite the Church of England's conservative stance on non-heterosexual relationships based on their interpretation of the Bible, a group of courageous LGBT clergy members are challenging tradition within the institution. Michael, a gay priest, grapples with his internal conflict between his faith and his identity, while Andrew faces discrimination for marrying his male partner. As they speak out, these clergy members are at the forefront of the movement for change within the Church of England.

Challenging Tradition: LGBT Clergy in the Church of England

When Sunita Dastidar's parents arrived in the north-east of England, facing homelessness, the community stepped in to support them. Made in Middlesbrough is the third episode of the Guardian's series Made in Britain, highlighting community-based journalism on poverty and inequality post-pandemic. This episode explores the notion that it takes a village to raise a child and poses the question of who will raise the village. The project aims to amplify the voices of those often overlooked by traditional media, both in front of and behind the camera.

Made in Middlesbrough: It takes a village

Step into the extraordinary Science Museum vaults in England, where 35,000 incredible inventions are stored across 10 massive hangars. Join a team of celebrity presenters as they unveil the iconic creations that have shaped our world, from the television to penicillin, the fridge to the steam engine. With expert insights and rare artifacts, this documentary provides a captivating look into the past and the innovations that continue to inspire us today.

Secret Hanger Stores Humanity's Incredible Creations

In the royal forest of New Forest National Park in Southern England, wild mares endure harsh winter conditions each year. With many of them expecting foals in the coming spring, the chances of warm weather are low, leading to the birth of their offspring in the cold depths of winter. This documentary explores the resilience and beauty of these wild mares as they navigate the challenges of nature in this ancient forest.

Wild Horses Birth in Royal Forest - Smithsonian Channel

Dale Farm in England is the largest Travellers' site in Europe, where fifty families have lived illegally on green belt land they own but are not allowed to occupy. After ten years of battles with the local council, including a campaign reaching the House of Lords, the climax of the eviction saga is finally in sight.
 
 In 1920, Isaac Ochberg embarked on a daring mission to rescue Jewish orphans in Russia, Poland, Belarus, and Ukraine. With ¬¨¬£10,000 raised, equivalent to Two Million Dollars today, he traveled for two months, wheeling and dealing to save as many children as possible. The film delves into Ochberg's rescue efforts amid the backdrop of forgotten history, exploring the genocidal Pogrom attacks on Jews.
 
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