During World War II, the British built or reinforced a series of structures consisting of over 26,000 buildings to form a line of defence against an expected German invasion. Rob Bell travels around the UK to learn their secrets.
If Germany invaded, Britain aimed to make landings costly, with defences ready before troops hit shore. This episode looks at mine towers, beach defences, and south coast forts.
If Britain's coastal defences failed, the battle would shift inland. This episode explores the Stop Lines interlinked barriers the British would use to halt or slow the German advance.
Protecting cities was key to Britain's defence. This episode explores hill defences around London, air raid shelters for 8 million during the Blitz, and starfish sites designed to confuse Nazi bombers.
After Dunkirk, Britain needed time to strengthen defences. This episode explores the integrated network of structures and airfields of the 'best air defence system in the world' that helped the RAF win the Battle of Britain.
While Britain hoped its defences would hold, plans were made if Germany invaded. This episode explores Reigate Hill fortifications, secret auxiliary units, underground BBC sites, and plans to protect the Royal family, government, and art treasures.
In 1941, invasion still loomed, but Britain was growing stronger. This episode explores shadow factories hidden from German bombs, including underground aircraft engine factories and the Avro Factory, disguised as a working farm to build Lancaster bombers
By 1942, with America entering the European conflict, the tide was turning. This episode explores the extensive air and naval structures Britain and her Allies used to prepare for the fight back against the Nazis.
In 1944, the greatest invasion in history was being prepared in southern Britain. This episode explores the buildings and structures used to plan and execute the D-Day landings, the largest and most complex amphibious operation ever.
