This week's TV and radio: Larry Lamb's story and more
This week's
TV & radio
31 August – 7 September
Pick of the week
Who Do You Think You Are?
Wednesday 31 August, 9pm BBC One
Who Do You Think You Are? follows actor Larry Lamb as he investigates the mysteries of his mother’s adopted past. Larry’s search for his ancestors leads him into the exciting world of fairgrounds where he discovers some unexpected revelations about his family’s adventurous history…
Also this week Time Team
Wednesday 31 August, 9pm More Four
Tony Robinson and the team discover a surprising array of archaeology in the gardens of Groby Old Hall in Leicestershire. Author Philippa Gregory also joins the gang to uncover the complex history of the Greys, the house’s medieval owners.
How London Was Built
Thursday 1 September, 7pm History Channel
Adam Hart-Davis focuses on London’s landmarks and architectural past as he looks at how the city’s buildings remain important to Londoners today.
Reel History of Britain
Monday 5 September, 6.30pm BBC Two
Melvin Bragg and his vintage mobile cinema explore Britain’s wartime evacuation through footage preserved by the British Film Institute. Bunty Tait describes her experiences as an evacuee, EastEnders actor Derek Martin recounts the Blitz and Derek Capel shares his memories of a torpedo attack.
Elegance and Decadence: The Age of the Regency
Monday 5 September, 9pm, BBC Four
Lucy Worsley explores the British construction boom of 1815, following the defeat of Napoleon. Her architectural journey takes her to Brighton Pavillion, Waterloo Bridge and London’s Regent Street, where she discovers why the famous London road didn’t quite live up to royal expectations.
The Hidden Paintings of London
Tuesday 6 September, 7.30pm BBC Four
Hardeep Singh Kohli visits London’s museums and galleries to discover how art tells the story of sailors, slaves, scholars and others who have helped shape the capital. He learns of the Thames's importance as a portal for immigration and finds a portrait that helped to inspire the anti-slavery movement.
Words | Clare Baranowski