Take A Step Back In Time With The Best Historical Reenactment Reality Shows
The most fascinating historical reenactment shows let audiences step back in time and learn about different historical eras while also watching other modern folks struggle to adapt. From navigating romances in the Regency era to managing a farm during the Tudor period, historical reality shows are a delightful mix of education and drama.
Many historical reenactment reality series are British, offering views into Victorian London, such as Victorian Pharmacy, The 1900 House, and 24 Hours In The Past. But, historical reality shows aren't limited to the often-romanticized Victorian Era and there are series set in the 1600s (Tales From Green Valley), the 2nd century BCE (Living In The Past) and even the stone age (10,000 BC). Nor are series locked into the British past, many American historical reenactment series take participants back to colonial eras such as Frontier House and Texas Ranch House.
Vote up the best historical reenactment series and vote down the shows that aren't worth the time travel!
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Victorian Farm
Ruth GoodmanStep into the fascinating world of 19th-century agricultural life, as participants attempt to run a farm using only the tools, techniques, and resources available at the time. They'll face grueling challenges, unpredictable weather, and a crash course in history as they strive to bring the past to life.
- Premiered: 2009
- Network: British Broadcasting Corporation
- 2
Edwardian Farm
Ruth GoodmanFrom sowing seeds to shearing sheep, participants live, work, and learn about life on the land during the Edwardian era. As they tackle arduous tasks without the aid of modern technology, viewers gain a newfound appreciation for the hardworking farmers that paved the way for our contemporary agricultural practices.
- Premiered: 2010
- Network: British Broadcasting Corporation
- 3
Ever wondered how ordinary families lived during the turn of the century? Discover the trials and tribulations of adapting to life in a Victorian house, where modern conveniences are nowhere to be found. From using long-forgotten kitchen equipment to navigating social etiquette, this engaging show reveals life's simplest pleasures and challenges through the eyes of a contemporary family.
- Premiered: December 28, 1999
- Network: Channel 4
- 4
Turn Back Time – The High Street
Hugh Bonneville, Gregg Wallace, Juliet GardinerWitness the evolution of British retail as shopkeepers, artisans, and customers transport themselves to various historic eras. Each week, they immerse themselves in different time periods, grappling with changing tastes and technologies while maintaining their businesses on a recreated High Street.
- Premiered: 2010
- Network: BBC One
- 5
Tales from the Green Valley
Owen Teale, Stuart Peachey, Ruth GoodmanFive historians step into the shoes of smallholders living in the 1620s, creating a captivating recreation of everyday life in the countryside. From animal husbandry to seasonal celebrations, this enlightening series offers a rare glimpse into life in early modern Britain.
- Premiered: 2005
- Network: BBC Two
- 6
The 1940s House
Michael Hymer, Lyn Hymer, Kristie HymerOne modern family trades their comfortable life for a time capsule from the era of World War II. They're challenged to adjust to rationing, air raid drills, and more as they navigate life on the home front, providing an eye-opening look at the sacrifices and resilience of everyday Britons during this tumultuous time.
- Premiered: 2001
- Network: Channel 4
