The Buildings That Fought Hitler
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.
- 2021-2021
- 1 season
- Documentary
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.
Season 1 Episode Guide
8 Episodes 2021
Episode 1
We Shall Fight on the Beaches
43 mins
Rob Bell explores the coastal defence network built to defend Britain's beaches, including a tower in Essex which controlled mines laid across the estuary.
Episode 2
We Shall Fight Them in the Streets
43 mins
The physical defence of London was crucial. A ring of steel and concrete was thrown up around the capital as well as utilising natural defences.
Episode 3
We Shall Fight Them in the Fields
44 mins
Numerous pill boxes, gun emplacements and dragon's teeth were all tactically positioned to slow the Germans trying to get to the major cities.
Episode 4
We Shall Fight Them in the Air
43 mins
RAF Kenley is one of the most intact Battle of Britain airfields. What gave Britain the edge during WWII was an integrated defence system and RADAR.
Episode 5
We Shall Never Surrender
44 mins
Reigate Fort was repurposed to block the Nazi's from getting to London and was set to become Resistance HQ should the capital have fallen.
Episode 6
Keep the Home Fires Burning
44 mins
With the blitz taking its toll, Britain had to keep it's manufacturing going. Shadow factories were born and were crucial in the production of ammunition.
Episode 7
Fighting Back by Sea and Air
Britain needed to produce vast amounts of ammunition; Chatham Docks on the Medway saw 142 ships set sail, and bomber bases sprung up across the country.
Episode 8
The Day of Days
Rob Bell looks at how the greatest amphibious invasion in human history was being prepared in Southern England, and the buildings that helped with the invasion of Normandy on D-Day and Operation Overlord.