Purple Productions’ Villages by the Sea recommissioned, expands across the UK

Purple Production’s Villages by The Sea is set to return to BBC Two and iPlayer for another 10x30 series, expanding from previous series to look beyond England. Hosted by archaeologist Ben Robinson, this will be the first time the series will embark on a captivating journey across the entire British Isles.

From Seaton Sluice in Northumberland to Solva in Wales, Culross in Scotland and Cushendall in Northern Ireland, each episode will offer viewers a different picture of the idyllic coastal village, going beyond the postcard image to discover deeper stories about Britain’s past as Ben is joined by national experts and local enthusiasts in his quest. Using clues from buildings, street patterns, artefacts and the landscape Ben will focus on a key moment in the village’s history and unwrap why the village is there, who lived there, and how.

Purple’s Pam Cavannagh and Dympna Jackson said “It’s wonderful to have the opportunity to grow this beautiful series for BBC Two and iPlayer. We’ve visited so many incredible villages in the previous series and we can’t wait to see the stories Ben will uncover as we explore more hidden gems right across the UK.”

Diana Hare said "Ben's fresh take on the hidden histories of our coastal villages has made the series a huge hit with audiences. It is very exciting to be able to showcase beautiful locations and their communities around the coast of Scotland Wales and Northern Ireland as well."

Villages by The Sea, a 10x30’ for BBC Two and iPlayer was commissioned by Diana Hare. It is executive produced by Pam Cavannagh and Dympna Jackson. Zoe Thorman is the series editor.