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A helicopter trip over some of Britain's extraordinary houses provides us with a glimpse into the country's deep history. From Iron Age forts to gentrified seaside pavilions, this travelogue reveals Britain's changing face through time. Written and narrated by poet Sir John Betjeman.

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49 minutes

Last on

Sun 19 May 2024 23:05
BBC Four

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More about this programme

Bird's Eye View (1969-71) was a series of helicopter travelogues providing breathtaking views of the British Isles. John Betjeman wrote and narrated two episodes (the other was Beside the Seaside).

Producer Edward Mirzoeff collaborated with Betjeman again to make Metroland (1973), a study of suburbia. Contributor John Dankworth also wrote the music for Tomorrow's World.

BBC Four Betjeman Collection

BBC Four Betjeman Collection
Rediscover the documentaries that made Betjeman a much-loved figure on British television.

BBC Four Betjeman Collection

About BBC Four Collection programmes

Programmes are selected, in part, for their historical context and reflect the broadcast standards and attitudes of their time, which may not accord to some current BBC editorial guidelines. We aim to select programmes which can be shown in their entirety but in some cases edits are required.

Credits

Narrator John Betjeman
Writer John Betjeman

Broadcasts

  • Sat 5 Apr 1969 19:25
    BBC Two except East, South East & Yorkshire
  • Mon 4 Jul 1983 15:25
    BBC One
  • Wed 20 May 1987 11:05
    BBC One
  • Tue 16 May 1989 15:05
    BBC Two except East, South East & Yorkshire
  • Sat 5 Dec 1992 11:25
    BBC Two except East, South East & Yorkshire
  • Sun 19 May 2024 23:05
    BBC Four

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