Britain and the Sea

Watch Britain and the Sea

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  • 2013
  • 1 Season

Britain and the Sea is a documentary series that explores the relationship between the United Kingdom and the ocean that surrounds it. Presented by David Dimbleby, the series was produced by BBC Worldwide and first aired in 2013. The series is comprised of four hour-long episodes, each of which covers a different theme related to the sea. The first episode, entitled "Power," explores the ways in which the sea has been harnessed by humans to generate energy, from wind turbines to tidal barrages. It also looks at the history of naval power in Britain, from the Spanish Armada to the Battle of Jutland.

The second episode, "Leisure," takes a lighter look at Britain's relationship with the sea. It covers everything from seaside rock and chips to the yachts of the rich and famous, and examines the way in which the sea has shaped British leisure culture.

The third episode, "Treasure," looks at the sea as a source of wealth and opportunity, both historically and in the present day. It covers everything from shipwrecks and salvage to offshore oil rigs, and examines the way in which Britain's economy has been shaped by its relationship with the sea.

The final episode, "Wilderness," explores the natural world that exists beneath the waves. It looks at the way in which marine life has been affected by human activity, from overfishing to pollution, and examines the efforts being made to conserve and protect the ocean's delicate ecosystems.

Throughout the series, Dimbleby travels around the UK, visiting ports, beaches, and other coastal locations. He meets with fishermen, sailors, scientists, and local residents, building a diverse picture of Britain's relationship with the sea.

The series is well-researched and informative, with Dimbleby offering insightful commentary throughout. The production values are high, with stunning aerial footage of the UK coastline and underwater camera work that captures the beauty and diversity of marine life.

Overall, Britain and the Sea is a compelling series that provides a fascinating insight into the relationship between the UK and the ocean that surrounds it. Whether you are interested in history, economics, or conservation, there is something in this series for everyone.

Britain and the Sea
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Seasons
Pleasure and Escape
4. Pleasure and Escape
December 8, 2013
Starting at Gorleston-on-Sea, David explores the creation of a seaside holiday culture that remains uniquely British to this day. Sailing the Rocket down the Suffolk and Essex coasts and into the Thames, he explains how after centuries of protecting and providing for Britain, the sea - and seaside - became a playground for the nation, a place of pleasure and relaxation.
Trade and Romance
3. Trade and Romance
December 1, 2013
Joined by his son Fred, David follows the trade routes of the west coast of Scotland along the monumental channels that cut through the Romantic Highlands and brought wealth and prosperity to the heart of Scotland. The journey starts at Craobh Haven and takes David along the Crinan Canal and up the River Clyde towards Glasgow, charting the crucial importance of the sea to Britain's trade.
Invasion and Defence
2. Invasion and Defence
November 24, 2013
Sailing the southern shore of England from Hampshire to Kent, David Dimbleby explores how Britain's seas have protected against threat from abroad throughout history. David abseils the great iron side of the HMS Warrior to take in the engineering might of one of the most powerful battleships of its day. He also reveals the surreal 'Dazzle Painting' applied to British ships to distract enemies as they took aim.
Adventure and Exploration
1. Adventure and Exploration
November 17, 2013
David Dimbleby sails the beautiful coastlines of Devon and Cornwall, delving into maritime history, art and architecture as he goes. He braves some stormy weather to uncover the stories of a fantastic array of adventurers, explorers, pirates and smugglers. David also gingerly submits himself to one of the oldest maritime art forms of all - the art of the tattoo!
Description
  • Premiere Date
    November 17, 2013