Advertisement

The Royal House of Windsor: Channel 4 reveals the British monarchy’s history in documentary series

Family history: Channel 4 chart 100 years of the British monarchy in historical documentary series: Channel 4/Bettmann
Family history: Channel 4 chart 100 years of the British monarchy in historical documentary series: Channel 4/Bettmann

If you’re a fan of all things royal, be sure to tune in to Channel 4’s new documentary series.

The Royal House of Windsor charts the last 100 years of history in the British monarchy.

It’s a period that encompasses two world wars and huge societal changes, all set to be explored across six hour-long episodes.

While royal history enthusiasts might already be familiar with the subject matter, the documentary promises tantalising insights from “family insiders, royal experts, and some of the most closely-guarded papers in the world”.

There are even scenes show inside the family archives at Windsor.

Episode 1 goes right back to the First World War, when ‘Britain’s most powerful dynasty’ was in need of an image change thanks to their German heritage.

“People forget that the Windsors were originally a German family. Queen Victoria was as German as German could be, she spoke German as well as she spoke English and married Albert, another German,” explains historian MJ Carter.

“There’s not a jot of English blood technically in them.”

1917 brought the family’s name change as the Saxe-Coburg and Gotha became the more British-sounding Windsors.

There are no bells and whistles here – this is a straight down the line history show that will be fascinating for some, but perhaps less engaging for more casual viewers.

But as an in-depth look at one of Britain’s most famous families, there’s plenty to delve into.

Channel 4, 9pm