Season 1

Episodes

1. 1

   1. Fire and Destiny

   7 May 2004 · 60 min

   From Boudicca's torching of the city to the Blitz raids, Ackroyd examines how London survives fire.

2. 2

   2. The Crowd

   12 May 2004 · 60 min

   Historical figures recall the city's drama of crime and punishment, and its unquenchable thirst for spectacle, drink and sex.

3. 3

   3. Water & Darkness

   19 May 2004 · 60 min

   In the Victorian era London finally achieves its destiny as the heart of a world empire, but Peter Ackroyd and historical figures expose the city's rotten underbelly.