Channel 5 (UK) Documentaries

Houses buried under snow, rivers frozen solid, bombers called upon to drop bread to isolated villages. How did Brits survive the snowiest winter ever recorded? Less than two years after the Second World War ended, with food strictly rationed and most homes without central heating, the nation shivered for seven long weeks in a Siberian climate. Huge snow drifts and plunging temperatures of -21C caused frozen railways, factory shutdowns, power cuts and a farming crisis. Famous faces including John Craven, Amanda Barrie, Timothy West and Neil Kinnock share childhood memories of the extreme winter and explain why it remains unparalleled

Across several rounds the trusty old microwave is challenged against the air fryer.

The story of Queen Margrethe II, who guided Denmark into the 21st century.

A celebration of one of the UK's most enduring sitcoms - the smash hit 1970s comedy.

A look back at outrageous events of '74, replaying the most controversial moments in TV, cinema, music, showbiz and politics, including film 'The Exorcist', TV's 'Tiswas' and the 3-day working week.

How, since Hugh Hefner's death, a darker take on Playboy has emerged.

Alexis Conran investigates whether loyalty cards save consumers money when shopping, looking into the possibility that supermarkets could be inflating prices only to discount them. Alexis discovers how supermarkets offer a reduced price in return for an exchange of data from shoppers, speaking to those responsible for handling the data and making profits from it.

Carla Lane was a sitcom pioneer. Writing female driven shows that powered through the 1960s,70s and 80s. In this 90-minute special we pay tribute to her three most famous shows. From the flat-sharing young girls-about-town in The Liver Birds, to the bored, frustrated housewife Ria in Butterflies, and the Boswell family in 80s hit Bread.

A look back at key events in TV, film, showbusiness and politics in 1984, a year when Spitting Image and The Young Ones revolutionised comedy and enraged the old guard. Conservative crusaders became hysterical over the horror of video nasties, and an attempt to silence pop band Frankie Goes to Hollywood backfired spectacularly. In politics, Margaret Thatcher faced a fierce year-long battle with striking coal miners and the Conservative Party was hit by a deadly terrorist attack in Brighton. Narrated by Jan Leeming and featuring contributions from John Thomson, Cheryl Baker, Steve Nallon, Edwina Currie, Matthew Parris and Martin Bell.

Alexis Conran discovers how different makes and models of air fryers stack up.

Looking back at the biggest hits and videos from 1995, including Oasis, The Spice Girls, Blur, Take That, Babylon Zoo and more. With contributions from East 17, Go West and Betty Boo.

Exploring one of the most devastating but little-known disasters in London's history.

Alexis Conran investigates the latest scams, with a look at the banking app infiltrated by criminals, a delivery scam, and a woman tricked out of the sale of her new Spanish home.

Between 1979 and 1981, up to 24 million viewers were glued to their TV sets for a sitcom that followed the fortunes of upper-class widow Audrey fforbes-Hamilton (Penelope Keith) after she was forced to sell her manor house to self-made grocer Richard DeVere (Peter Bowles). Features an interview with Penelope Keith, as well as hearing from co-stars, crew and celebrity fans, while there are classic clips and behind-the-scenes archive.

Alexis Conran uncovers the truth behind the promised benefits of smart energy meters, investigating their mental health impact, whether data gathered is being monetised and hearing horror stories of wildly inaccurate bills and invasions of privacy. Do smart meters live up to the claims made for them, or should consumers listen to the alarming tales that are coming to light?

Disturbing documentary about the notorious case, delving into questions that never got answered, with testimony from those who lived through the tragedy.

With the final demolition of the spa built by Captain Tom Moore's family, this documentary reveals one of the most shocking stories of recent times, unravelling what really happened to the money donated by the British public. The film examines if Captain Tom's legacy has been tarnished and whether this sorry saga is finally at an end

Exploring the story behind how Marks and Spencer's returned to fashion relevance. With a look at the stores modern designs, desirable women's and men's wear, plus collaborations with celebrities, such as Sienna Miller and Hannah Waddingham. Also, focusing on how how their success is based on a new management team.

Since the 17th century, St James's in central London has been the go-to destination for luxury retailing and for the kings and queens of Britain. In this programme, we meet the characters who run these world-famous stores, and the customers who purchase their top of the range products and services offered with the utmost traditional English flair

Looking back at the deadly floods that devastated England's east coast in January 1953, the worst natural disaster to strike Britain in modern times. Across a day of destruction, a massive storm and its huge tidal surge flooded 250 square miles of land, killing hundreds of people, sinking several ships and destroying tens of thousands of homes.

Alexis Conran investigates some weight loss meal plans with the help of the air fryer.

Where the royals are free to be themselves - to fall in love, celebrate, mourn and argue.

The surprising and colourful life of the Queen Consort. Who is the woman for whom Charles risked everything?

In "M&S: Secrets of the Food Hall", viewers are treated to an inside look at the extraordinary transformation that Marks and Spencer’s food stores have undergone. This revelatory documentary dives into the creation of their stunning new Food Hall-style stores, which have captured the hearts of British shoppers.

A surprisingly bumpy ride through our love-hate relationship with motorways. The godmother of the road sign discusses her iconic designs. Plus, our favourite and most hated service stations.

A look at the history of the royal palace in the City of Westminster, revealing the family dramas that have taken place there since it was built on Henry VIII's order in the 1530s. Journalists, historians and commentators take us through the extraordinary hidden stories, from Elizabeth II becoming a commercial landlady for the first time, renting out St James's luxury apartments to commoners, to Queen Victoria setting the trend for big, white weddings the world over in the historic Chapel Royal

The devastating psychological impact of romance scams is explored by Alexis Conran.

A look at Britain's beloved canal network via a fact-filled cruise along the first superhighways of the Industrial Revolution. In the age before mechanisation, a frenzy of canal-building saw a new army of workers carve out the British landscape, digging out hundreds of miles of waterways using picks, shovels and muscle

The programme reveals how organisers used artificial intelligence to create fake adverts and posters showcasing a magical wonderland but, in reality, rented a warehouse and filled it with cheap-looking props and cardboard cut-outs

A celebratory tribute of the life and career of the TV presenter.

Documentary revealing the shocking story of how Richard Spencer was subjected to years of abuse at the hands of his wife Sheree. This is the disturbing tale of the suffering that Richard endured, with compelling footage of the abuse

Alexis Conran runs an air fryer surgery with cook and author Clare Andrews.

Charting the high and lows of Britain's railway - from the Industrial Revolution to HS2.

The sordid story of the Duke and Duchess of Windsor's war years in the Caribbean.

Dan travels to Greece to discover if the fate of real cities could have inspired the legend of Atlantis. He investigates real ancient cities that were destroyed by earthquakes, volcanoes and tsunamis.

Dive into the enticing world of Easter chocolate.

Take a deep dive with this documentary investigating the hidden secrets of one of our oldest, and most crucial, networks - the sewers. A tour of the latest solution - London's Tideway Tunnel - reveals its staggering scale - a 16-mile-long storage tank to hide sewage beneath the river Thames. There is also a trip to Hadrian's Wall to marvel at how the Romans handled the sewage issue almost 2,000 years ago.

Ben Fogle narrates a detailed film revealing the crucial events that led to the 1986 nuclear accident in Ukraine, as Chernobyl Power Plant Reactor 4 exploded with devastating consequences.

2024 has seen the health of the royals scrutinised as never before. Experts examine how the royal family's health and the country's have been inextricably linked for centures.

The story of one of the worst storms to hit the UK in centuries, when hurricane-strength winds damaged three million trees and 47 people were killed. This documentary examines how, despite the warnings, this violent daytime storm sent shockwaves across Great Britain and how the heroism of everyday people ensured the death toll wasn't higher. It also explores how we have learned to adapt and survive in the decades since to avoid further tragedy in the face of adverse weather.

The historian pieces together the story of the ancient monument, revealing how modern discoveries have started to solve its many mysteries. He learns about the true skill and sophistication of its builders, its remarkably advanced solar alignments, exactly where those giant 20-ton stones came from, and how they were moved. Cutting-edge science shows how Stonehenge sat at the heart of a vast Stone Age network that brought people from right across Britain and beyond to build, celebrate and be buried there

Famous faces from the 1960s relive moments they'd rather forget! Bloopers include Doris Day's wardrobe fail, outtakes from Star Trek, and things getting out of hand on a live discussion show.

Robert Jones was the GP in the Essex town of Coggeshall, where he lived with his 35-year-old wife Diane. They first met as doctor and patient and started an affair, but in July 1983, Diane vanished. Three months later her body was discovered in woodland. Suspicion centred on her husband again and again, but he was never charged. This documentary uses new evidence from detectives, friends, lovers and neighbours to reveal Diane Jones's secrets and how she and her upstanding doctor husband lived a life that was nothing like it appeared

An entertaining ride through London's tube network, revealing its deep history.

Documentary celebrating the special bond that has grown between King Charles and the Princess of Wales, who are supporting each other as they both undergo treatment for cancer.

From an intergeneration hook-up on Come Dine with Me to the mile high antics on Footballer's Wives that caused a storm of complaints, these are tales of sex on the box that proved a turn-off.

The story of 'The Fox', who terrorised rural Britain, lying in wait inside victims' homes.

Shocking investigation into the shambolic state of British railways.

A swashbuckling voyage that charts the rise and fall of our greatest ports.

Celebrating 50 years since ABBA won Eurovision in 1974 with Waterloo, through the extraordinary and entertaining story of how international stardom almost didn't happen for the group.

Over four rounds - breakfast, lunch, dinner and drinks - chef and taste-tester Philippa Davis reviews some of Wetherspoons' and Toby's most popular meals. From a full English breakfast to mac 'n' cheese wrapped in a Yorkshire pudding, fish and chips to a roast dinner, Philippa tastes her way through dishes on both menus giving her expert verdict.

After three months into 2024, the royal family faced an unprecedented series of crises, threatening the very fabric of the monarchy. A king fighting cancer, a princess undergoing preventative chemotherapy, and an heir torn between privacy and duty.

Richard Bacon narrates this look at epic fails from some of the nation's best-loved TV hosts, with less-than-perfect moments from heavyweights including Anne Diamond, Denis Tuohy and Ross King. Esther Rantzen recalls the shocking moment when she was arrested while filming for That's Life, while other highlights include the opening night of BBC Two, which was beset by technical problems. With contributions from Vanessa Feltz, Lowri Turner, Janet Street-Porter, Ross Kelly and Hal Cruttenden.

A comparison of the quality of different food products from the two German supermarkets, tasting everything from chocolate biscuits to ready meals. Tom Read Wilson and food writers Jonathan Phang and Alexandra Dudley take part in blind taste tests to compare the discount shops' products against their rivals.

Unravel the bizarre story surrounded the murder of Anthony Ashley-Cooper, 10th Earl of Shaftesbury, and one of Britain's wealthiest men.

How Spitfire aircraft came to be built in hidden locations in an undisclosed British town.

In 1990, six families in Rochdale were accused by social service workers of being involved in the satanic ritual abuse of children. Multiple youngsters were taken into care, placed into foster homes and barred from all contact with their families. For some it would be an unbearably long time before they saw their parents again. This documentary uses the scandal as a starting point to explore infamous Satanic panic cases, a type of moral hysteria fuelled by overzealous law enforcement, unsubstantiated statements from children and suggestive interrogation by therapists and prosecutors.

This documentary recounts when, in the 1990s, social workers (wrongfully) removed children who claimed to be victims of ritualistic abuse

The scandal that ended MP Cecil Parkinson's political ambitions.

This fascinating film reveals the two sides of the icon's life: heart-breaking tragedy, and alongside it a powerful determination to survive, from childhood trauma to the assassination of JFK.

How the Princess of Wales has secured personal popularity.

The story of a toxic divorce case in 1963 involving sexually explicit Polaroid photos.

Professor Alice Roberts joins the team using technology to unravel the scrolls buried by Vesuvius nearly 2000 years ago. What new secrets might these ancient texts be hiding?

The rise and fall of popular 'momfluencer' Ruby Franke: behind the facade was a nightmare.

Just how do you go about preparing for the most exclusive job in the world?

Previously unseen archive film captures the 85-day struggle to liberate Europe after Allied forces landed on the beaches of Normandy on June 6, 1944. The documentary features footage from the Battle of Normandy, revealing one of the most violent military campaigns in history, and follows Allied soldiers from the beaches on D-Day through a three-month inland march to liberate French cities from Nazi occupation.

In this groundbreaking documentary, viewers are invited to explore the controversial career and public persona of comedian Jim Davidson. With a career spanning decades, Davidson has been both celebrated and criticized for his comedy, which often courted controversy and sparked debate. However, in recent years, Davidson has faced increasing scrutiny and backlash over his views and statements on various social and political issues.

Documentary exploring the history of chocolate and looking at how the nation's favourite confectionery is made, taking illuminating tours of some of the factories.

Following the story of the unlikely American icon Stormy Daniels, who reflects on receiving a secret payment as incentive to stay quiet about a certain encounter with the former US President, Donald Trump. She shares her experience of the fallout she's faced over the years and the ways she's reinvented herself, while still grappling with the bombshell that went off in her life

Behind the scenes of the chain of retail stores, looking at how its warehouses operate, putting core products to the test and uncovering the secrets of its highest-selling products. The programme reveals how Poundland is keeping it's prices low and dealing with new competitors as the cost of living crisis continues to spur a bargain store price war

They were meant to be the answer to Britain's grid-locked roads by removing the hard shoulder, allowing for more traffic and reducing congestion. But the results of smart motorways have been catastrophic. Despite campaigns, successive governments have maintained that they are safe. This programme investigates how drivers have been affected by the installation of these motorways over the last decade, and features people who have lost loved ones or been seriously injured themselves

Collection of some of the most memorable pranks played on celebrities.

Demystifying the dates and small print on food packaging.

Meet rich retirees living it up in dream retirement homes in Miami, Colorado, and Sussex!

Following the work of some of the UK's best police raid teams, who utilise surprise tactics to get results. Police track down the organised crime gang suspected of supplying drugs across south Wales.

This intimate film reveals the special relationship between the late Queen and Kate.

In "The King's Birthday: Charles At 75", viewers are invited to explore the complex and intriguing relationship between Queen Elizabeth II and her eldest son, Prince Charles. Through a chronological journey, the episode delves into significant moments in both their lives, offering insights into their personal and public experiences. From pivotal moments such as the queen's coronation when Charles was just three years old to the challenges faced during his divorce from Diana, Princess of Wales, the episode provides a comprehensive look at the bond between mother and son. Viewers can expect to gain a deeper understanding of the dynamics within the royal family and the enduring influence of Queen Elizabeth II on Prince Charles' life and reign.

Following the story of Joanne Dennehy, one of Britain's most notorious female serial killers, told by those closest to the case. The police in charge of bringing Dennehy to justice, witnesses to her crimes, and neighbours chart the events of a 10-day period in which Dennehy took the lives of three men and went on the run from law enforcement.

What can the posh supermarket chain do to win shoppers back after sales plunged in 2023?

A heart-warming celebration, exploring what will it mean when Kate becomes Queen Consort.

A brand-new perspective on the Soham murders, using transcripts and reconstruction

Dan Snow embarks on a journey to China, delving into the remarkable story of the Terracotta Army, a vast archaeological treasure lost for over 2,000 years. In 1974, a group of local farmers serendipitously unearthed this ancient wonder, revealing thousands of life-size soldiers prepared for battle even in the afterlife. Beyond the warriors, the discovery also encompasses painted figures, stone armor, and the bones of the Emperor’s mistresses, who met their end alongside their ruler. Dan Snow’s exploration uncovers new insights into the First Emperor of China, a ruler who unified the nation through fear and domination. At the heart of the burial complex lies a giant earth pyramid, serving as the final resting place for the Emperor’s body, guarded for eternity by his formidable Terracotta Army.

The tale of newborn twins adopted by two families from different continents, which sounds like a sensational Hollywood script, is actually a real-life story. The infamous 'cash for babies' case involved British couple Judith and Alan Kilshaw and Californian pair Richard and Vickie Allen, even drawing the attention of then Prime Minister Tony Blair. This scandal is now being revisited in a Channel 5 documentary. The Baby Scandal That Rocked The World retells the story through the perspectives of the birth mother and the two adoptive mothers.

It's a question that divides the nation: do you favour red or brown sauce on your food? Fans of tomato ketchup and HP Sauce champion their cause in a light-hearted investigation of our tastes.

Can you tell the difference between brands and own brands?

Documentary examining the science behind the divisive food spread renowned for its distinctive flavour, as well as looking into its origins and its role in fighting two world wars. Superfans have their say and there is an unlikely Marmite-based recipe for cake enthusiasts, a selection of adverts, and an experiment to whether a hater can be converted into a lover

The king and queen of daytime TV look back over their broadcasting careers.

Re-examining the shocking case of MI6 spy Gareth Williams, who was found dead inside a padlocked duffel bag in the bath of his London flat. But is this mystery still unsolved?

We compare some luxury own brands with the brands they are trying to competing against.

This 90-minute documentary takes viewers inside Highgrove House, the King’s private family home nestled in the Cotswolds. The programme reveals the story of how an unimpressive country house was transformed into a beloved royal retreat. Through interviews with former royal staff, garden experts, journalists, and historians, the film uncovers fascinating insights and stories about this unusual royal haven. It reveals the changes and additions the King has made to the house and its grounds, reflecting his personal tastes and interests.

The remarkable story of how Britain prepared to host the 14th Olympic Games in 1948, on a shoe-string budget.

Unpacking and questioning the evidence used to convict neonatal nurse Lucy Letby.

This program promises to take viewers on a captivating journey exploring the age-old debate between fresh and frozen food. With a mix of historical insights and practical tips, the show aims to challenge common beliefs about food choices. The episode will delve into the origins of fresh and frozen food, highlighting how each has played a role in shaping diets around the world. Audiences will learn about the benefits and drawbacks of both options, from taste and nutrition to convenience and cost. Experts will share their knowledge, providing valuable information that could change how people think about their meals. This show is not just for food enthusiasts but for anyone curious about making healthier choices. With engaging discussions and eye-opening facts, “Fresh vs Frozen” is set to spark conversations around dinner tables everywhere.

Harry Wallop investigates the practices UK supermarkets use to increase their profits.

The inside story of the murder trial of Dr Harold Shipman.

Exmaining the 1952 flash flood in Lynmouth, then - 52 years later - in Boscastle.

The tragic story of four children who died at Grantham Hospital in early 1991.

This episode aims to find out if Costco truly offers lower prices compared to its supermarket rivals. The episode will explore the strategies used by both Costco and supermarkets as they compete for customers. Viewers can expect a detailed examination of prices on everyday items.

An audacious plot to defraud a millionaire businesswoman turns into murder.

The story of one of the UK's most successful and ruthless TV personalities.

A plane mysteriously vanishes from radar with 239 people on board. This is the story of Malaysia Airlines flight MH370, scheduled to fly from Kuala Lumpur in March 2014.

The show looks into the thrills and spills that attract millions of visitors each year, but also reveals how things can sometimes go terribly wrong

We're being pushed down the electric lane - but is time really up for petrol cars?

When over 2,000 lives were lost to heat-related incidents, fires raged and roads melted.

Charting her career and very public personal life up to the present day, the fast-turnaround documentary takes a forensic look at how one of Britain’s most controversial figures went from rags to riches and back again. Just how did Katie price squander a multi-million-pound fortune and find herself bankrupt and facing criminal charges?

The inside story of the Queen's youngest child and his down-to-earth wife. How have they recovered from scandal and shame to become one of the most popular couples in the family?

As the BBC series celebrates its 20th year on air, this documentary recognises its many highs, its occasional lows, the costumes, the competition - and the controversies. The history of Strictly is charted amid insider secrets from the judges, professional dancers and celebrity contestant. Plus, the best and worst competitors are remembered and the pioneering ground the show has broken by championing those with disabilities and leading the way on same-sex dancing pairings recognised.

The unsolved mystery of Melanie Hall whose body was found 13 years after her disappearance

Experts reveal the secrets of the ancestral home of the aristocratic Spencer family.

Documentary offering a portrait of Catherine, Princess of Wales's remarkable life by delving deep into the most famous photographs of her. Royal commentators, journalists and experts guide viewers through a timeline of extraordinary images as they explore what each reveals about her life at the time.

With privileged access, we explore one of Britain's finest stately houses.

Psychologists, psychiatrists and branding experts unpick Meghan's psychology.

Experts reveal the secrets of a house steeped in history, tradition and myth.

Exploring the most divisive case of our age.

Reliving the worst flood in 50 years which hit the south-west on the 10th July 1968.

Delving into the background of Mick Philpott - violent criminal and media villain.

The story of how some of the UK's best-loved stars changed the face of television when they became the first black people to take their place on the small screen. Pioneers such as Shirley Bassey, Lenny Henry, Trevor McDonald, Moira Stuart, Craig Charles, Don Warrington, Floella Benjamin and Diane-Louise Jordan all broke new ground in the decades in which they came to prominence, as did trailblazing sitcoms Desmond's and The Fosters and sketch show The Real McCoy. Narrated by Angela Griffin, this programme examines the impact they had, both at the time and in subsequent years.

The shocking story of how husband John Mook was being poisoned by his wife Heather.

Looking back at the case that shook America.

Dan Snow uncovers the shocking story of the Black Death, which devastated Britain 700 years ago, killing over three million people - half the entire population of Britain.

A princess whose words inspire a nation. Her story, and her voice.

Can members of the public spot discount items from big brands?

Delia Balmer relives what it was like to live with a killer.

They used to be the ultimate power couple - but what exactly has gone wrong?

Heartwarming documentary uncovering iconic photographs that chart The Queen Mother's life.