Royalty documentaries

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Explore the history of the British monarchy with our collection of Royal Family documentaries from the BBC and beyond. From Henry VIII and Queen Victoria to Queen Elizabeth II and King Charles III, as well as other monarchies from around the world, stream BBC series and films about the past and present of royalty.

King George VI: Brother, Husband, King

King George VI: Husband Father King

Britain’s King George VI was a complicated character. Forced onto the throne when his brother, Edward VIII, fell in love with Wallis Simpson and abdicated. He was a reluctant monarch. This gripping royal history documentary reveals he could be a brutal father with a terrifying temper, but also shy and withdrawn. He was a man who sacrificed everything when offered no choice but to serve his nation.

Royal Cousins at War

Stream Cousins at War on BBC Select

At the start of the 20th century, three cousins ruled Britain, Russia and Germany. But the relationship and rivalries between Georg V of Britain, Wilhelm II of Germany and Nicholas II of Russia had a devastating impact on Europe. This fascinating 2-part BBC documentary explores the plots, scandals and betrayals between three royal houses and when the families concerned rule the most powerful nations, petty squabbles can lead to political turmoil, economic upheaval and even war.

Secrets Of The Royal Gardens

Discover little-known facts and horticultural wonders hidden in royal parks and gardens.

Go behind castle gates and palace walls to uncover little-known facts about some regal horticultural wonders. This stunning documentary series takes us behind the scenes of Britain’s royal gardens and parks, including Buckingham Palace, Kew Gardens and Balmoral. Along the way, the Queen’s bee-keeping skills, Princess Diana’s favorite garden spot and mysterious pyramids will be revealed.

The Six Queens of Henry VIII

Stream The Six Queens of Henry VIII on BBC Select

King Henry VIII’s reign was defined by his marriages. Coercion, manipulation and ultimately murder were all employed. Wives were selected and discarded for political and religious reasons and in a desperate attempt to sire an heir.

Join historians Dan Jones and Suzannah Lipscomb as they explore what these turbulent relationships tell us about England’s legendary king.

The Princes and the Press

Stream The Princes and the Press on BBC Select

In this compelling BBC royal family documentary, Amol Rajan investigates how the relationship between the British Royal Family and newspapers has changed dramatically in recent years. Unlike older members of the family such as The Queen, the younger royals like the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Harry and Meghan face far greater scrutiny but does the press ever go too far?