Brilliantly British

Latest Episodes

• Season 1 Episode 3: William Morris

  In the last episode of the series, Hilary Kay explores the life of Victorian textile designer William Morris, whose passion for nature and medieval craftsmanship fuelled his epic struggle against industrialisation and his desire to find the perfect outlet for his romantic vision. New evidence and computer graphics reconstruct the 'lost' interior that inspired Morris to become a designer and create such exquisite motifs as the Strawberry Thief, while Kay reveals how his domestic life was far from the ideal he aspired to so fervently

• Season 1 Episode 2: Josiah Wedgwood

  Hilary Kay explores the life and work of potter Josiah Wedgwood, a poorly educated and sickly child who became consumed by a determination to understand clay and kilns. His daring marketing strategies helped kick-start the Industrial Revolution and turned a cottage industry into a global phenomenon - creating a brand that thrives to this day. Hilary travels from London to Russia in search of examples of Wedgwood's finest pieces, and meets craftsmen who still employ the techniques and machinery he developed

• Season 1 Episode 1: Thomas Chippendale

  Antiques Roadshow regular Hilary Kay presents profiles of three British craftsmen, beginning with furniture designer Thomas Chippendale. A shrewd self-promoter, he fitted out the homes of the great and good, and became the first to publish a catalogue of his works, yet never became wealthy. Historical re-enactments trace the life of a man whose creations have become synonymous with luxury and still cause excitement in auction houses around the world