Watch Victorian Farm

Victorian Farm is a British historical documentary series created by All 3 Media, which follows three individuals as they live and work on a recreated Victorian farm in England's West Country. The show is presented by Peter Ginn, an archaeologist and historian, and Ruth Goodman, a historian and broadcaster, who are joined by farm manager Alex Langlands.

The show is set in the late 19th century, a time when Britain was going through a period of major change, particularly with the rise of industry and urbanization. The three presenters leave their modern lives behind and immerse themselves in the challenging but rewarding world of farming as it was back then.

The show is divided into episodes that each cover a particular season on the farm, starting with spring and ending with winter. Each episode sees the trio taking on a variety of tasks, such as planting and harvesting crops, looking after livestock, and taking care of the farm buildings and equipment.

Throughout their journey, Peter, Ruth, and Alex use historical sources to recreate the practices and techniques of the time as accurately as possible. They use traditional tools and methods, such as plowing with horses, hand-scything, and threshing by flail, to get the job done.

In addition to working on the farm, the presenters also explore aspects of Victorian life beyond farming, such as food, fashion, and leisure activities. They visit local markets and fairs, experiment with Victorian recipes, and participate in traditional sports and games.

As the seasons pass, the presenters face a range of challenges, from dealing with pests and diseases in the crops to keeping the animals healthy and productive. They must also cope with the realities of a Victorian lifestyle, such as the lack of modern conveniences and the need to work long hours.

Throughout the show, the presenters share their experiences, observations, and insights with the audience, making the history of farming and Victorian life come alive. They show how the land provided for the people who worked it, and how the skills and knowledge passed down through generations were vital to survival.

Victorian Farm is not only a fascinating look at the past but also a reminder of the skills and practices that are in danger of being lost. The show encourages viewers to appreciate the value of sustainable, locally sourced food and the importance of preserving traditional skills and knowledge.

Overall, Victorian Farm is an engaging and educational series that brings history alive in a unique and memorable way. With its stunning scenery, fascinating insights, and relatable presenters, it is a must-watch for anyone interested in the past, the present, and the future of farming.

Victorian Farm is a series that ran for 2 seasons (9 episodes) between and on All 3 Media