Britain's Most Historic Towns

I watched a few of these about towns that I know well and about periods of history about which I know a considerable amount, and it is really just laughably over-simplified history for people who do their food shopping in Marks & Spencer. Regrettable to see a serious academic drawn into the cosplay stunts that often accompany the narratives. If you have any serious interest in the history of Britain, read some books.

Although interesting in parts and brave enough to call out Britains horrific role in slavery, it's seen through the lens of Englishness and like many historical documentaries regularly becomes confused between Britain/England and the terms become interchangeable, leading to inaccuracies and confusion for non-English viewers who are still British. (The Welsh and Scots)

The episodes are also dominated by English towns and cities with a connection to the presenter, and no real great thought has went into exploring the many places in Scotland and Wales with arguably more historical significance to the island of Britain and beyond.

I would do just about anything to be her best friend. And I love how excited she is about new archeological discoveries I completely disagree with those who say she is too woke. Is it so wrong to look at the entirety of history? She is pointing out how these historic towns were linked to British slavery and the slave trade. Not because she wants to shame Britain, but because it is relevant to the specific era. How would it benefit or change the stories by intentionally omitting this aspect? When it comes down to it, the people who feel uncomfortable with this sort of discussion would rather keep it locked in the past.

Alice, thanks for sharing the good and uncomfortable history of these towns.

Like others during lockdown, I am watching this series as a diversion and, as an advert for the great places to visit in Britain it is very enjoyable. Until that is, Professor Roberts starts beating her breast and talking to us like a headmistress about the country's past involvement in the slave trade. Alice; stop patronising the viewers. Most of us with an average understanding of history are well aware that Britain took part in this despicable trade in human misery, but we don't need you to keep slipping it into your commentary. It's beginning to get as tedious as the gay references in Doctor Who. Is all of this preliminary to pulling down Nelson's Column and Drake's statue, and perhaps demolishing Glasgow's Civic Offices? Slavery has been around since ancient times. You must know that. Will you be having a go at Italy for Rome's historical involvement? Britain wasn't the only participant in the slave trade, and they learned from the Arabs and Portuguese. Britain was also one of the first countries to pass a law against it. You might mention that. Stick to the travelogue please.

I was enjoying this series but particularly season three descended into a preachy tirade about how terrible Britain had been in engaging in the slave trade but I should have not expected anything else from holier than thou Channel 4, the slave trade was terrible and deserved a mention but it seemed to dominate the whole series.