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.

How Mad Was King George?

King George

King George III was the longest-reigning king in British history. But his reputation brands him a foolish, incapable madman. As this history documentary reveals, this unfair assessment overshadows his achievements and qualities as a monarch. With new revelations from diaries and letters and interviews with experts, a very different side to this remarkable ruler emerges.

Princess Anne: The Seven Loves of Her Life

Image of Princess Anne

This compelling Princess Anne documentary explores the complex and at times scandalous love life of Queen Elizabeth’s only daughter.

The romantic relationships of Princess Anne have been complicated and occasionally scandalous. This documentary delves into Princess Anne’s love life and reveals the men who romanced her. How did the notoriously private princess emerge relatively unscathed from her affairs, while her siblings and partners found themselves embroiled in tabloid gossip and scandal?

Before They Were Royal

Before They Were Royals

What was life like for Prince Philip, Camilla Parker-Bowles and more before they joined the British royal family? This compelling documentary looks at the early lives of various royals before their fame and their acceptance into the monarchy.

Inside Balmoral

Stream Inside Balmoral with BBC Select

Since Queen Victoria first acquired it in 1852, the British royal family have found solace at Balmoral. This enormous private estate in the Scottish Highlands is where monarchs have holidayed, hidden, plotted, and played.

The inside view of this secretive sanctuary reveals some of the extraordinary features found at Balmoral and the tales of intrigue involve the figures who have resided there.

Princess Diana: A Life After Death

Documentary exploring the death of Diana, Princess of Wales and the aftermath. During the summer of 1997, following the end of her marriage to Prince Charles, media fascination with Diana reached fever point and she was pursued constantly by the press. Diana’s life ended in a car crash in Paris and her death would change attitudes towards the British royal family forever.