Day One
Three-part drama documentary series. Anita Dobson stars as Elizabeth I, and Dan Snow tells the story of how England came within a whisker of disaster in summer 1588.
In the first part of a major three-part drama documentary series, Anita Dobson stars as Elizabeth I, and Dan Snow takes to the sea to tell the story of how England came within a whisker of disaster in summer 1588. Newly discovered documents take us right inside the Spanish Armada for the very first time and reveal a missed opportunity that could have spelled the end of Tudor England.
Last on
More episodes
Previous
You are at the first episode
Clips
![]()
The first battle of the Armada
Duration: 01:19
![]()
Elizabeth prepares for the day
Duration: 02:06
Anita Dobson's Elizabeth I Costumes
How we created Anita's make up
Behind the scenes during our drama shoot
Credits
| Role | Contributor |
|---|---|
| Presenter | Dan Snow |
| Producer | Robin Dashwood |
| Executive Producer | Cameron Balbirnie |
Broadcasts
Featured in...
![]()
History on BBC Four
The most compelling stories from world history on BBC Four.
Elizabeth I: Troubled child to beloved Queen
How Elizabeth I survived her childhood to become one of Britain’s greatest monarchs.
How could you survive in Tudor England?
Ruth Goodman shows you how to avoid the plague, punishment or starvation.
How did one family shape modern Britain?
The Tudor dynasty introduced huge changes to England that are still with us today.
Twitter Q&A with Jessie Childs
Speak to our historian after the show
Elizabeth I: Troubled child to beloved Queen
How Elizabeth I survived her childhood to become one of Britain’s greatest monarchs.
How could you survive in Tudor England?
Ruth Goodman shows you how to avoid the plague, punishment or starvation.
