Secrets of Great British Castles Season 1 Episode 1 Dover Castle

In the first episode of Secrets of Great British Castles season 1, viewers are taken on a journey through the rich history of Dover Castle, one of the most iconic landmarks in the United Kingdom. Situated atop the famous white cliffs, Dover Castle has been a critical defense gateway for over nine centuries, and in this episode, we get the chance to explore the castle's fascinating past.

Hosted by renowned historian and television presenter Dan Jones, the episode begins with a brief introduction of Dover Castle's rich history, from its origins as a Roman fort to its role during the Napoleonic Wars. Throughout the episode, Dan takes us on a tour of various parts of the castle, including the Great Tower, the Keep, and the tunnels dating from World War II.

One of the most interesting parts of this episode is the exploration of the Great Tower, which was built by King Henry II in the 1180s. Here, viewers are treated to a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of the castle's elite inhabitants, including the king himself, who would often stay here while visiting the south of England. Dan also highlights the fantastic architecture and engineering of the Great Tower, with its impressive stone vaulted ceilings and intricate decorations, which have withstood the test of time.

Moving on, the episode also explores the castle's role in several key historical events. For example, we learn about the extraordinary preparations made by Dover Castle's garrison in anticipation of the Spanish Armada in 1588, as well as its importance during the English Civil War, where it was the last Royalist stronghold in the south.

Another fascinating aspect of the episode is the exploration of the castle's underground tunnels, which were designed during World War II to be the headquarters of Admiral Ramsey, who was in charge of Operation Dynamo, the mass evacuation of British soldiers from Dunkirk in 1940. These tunnels, which run deep beneath the castle, were also the location of a secret command center, responsible for coordinating British forces during the war.

Throughout the episode, Dan is joined by a range of experts and historians, who offer their insights and perspectives on the castle's fascinating past. We hear from archaeologists who have worked on the castle, as well as representatives of the Royal Arsenal Museum and the Royal Air Force Museum.

Overall, the first episode of Secrets of Great British Castles season 1 is a must-watch for anyone interested in British history and heritage. With its fascinating insights into the history of Dover Castle, it offers a rare glimpse into the workings of one of the UK's most iconic landmarks, and highlights the skill and craftsmanship of the architects, engineers, and craftsmen who built it.