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6. Holiday on Ice

Episode 6 of 10

When the rivers froze, frost fairs and fun on the ice. Alexandra Harris tells the story of weather’s role in British culture.

Alexandra Harris tells the story of how the weather has written and painted itself into the cultural life of Britain. When the rivers froze: frost fairs and merry making on ice.

The winter of 1608-9 was so cold that the Thames froze over.

The great highway of London was at a halt. Then, tents were being thrown up and barrels of ale rolled out. Soon there was bowling and skittles, musicians were playing, there was dancing, drinking, eating. The out-of-work ferrymen set aside their oars and took charge of the impromptu carnival.

A British History in Weather is a celebration of the British climate and a life story of those who have lived in it.

Music by Jon Nicholls.

Producer: Tim Dee

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 2016.

Available now

14 minutes

Last on

Mon 3 Jun 202409:30
BBC Radio 4 Extra

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5. Punishing Weather

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7. Rain

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Broadcasts

  • Mon 16 May 201613:45
    BBC Radio 4
  • Sun 18 Oct 202000:15
    BBC Radio 4
  • Mon 3 Jun 202409:30
    BBC Radio 4 Extra

Weather animations

Weather animations

Watch a series of charming films about our historical relationship with the weather.