Viewers seeking a programme to transport them to a bygone era need look no further. Prime Video is home to an overlooked treasure of a series that will appeal to fans of Clarkson's Farm, All Creatures Great and Small, and Countryfile.
A Victorian farming experiment
Victorian Farm originally aired on the BBC in 2009, documenting a team of specialists undertaking an ambitious project to live and operate a farm as it would have been in the Victorian period, reports the Express.
The three-person team — archaeologist Peter Ginn, historian Ruth Goodman, and lecturer, archaeologist and historian Alex Langlands — each assumed distinct responsibilities on the farm located at the Acton Scott estate in Shropshire.
The Acton family, residents of the estate since the 12th century, had amassed an extensive collection of Victorian-era farming equipment and machinery which the three historical specialists would utilise throughout the documentary.
Rediscovering lost skills
Throughout the documentary series, viewers witness how the team labour and strive to establish a thriving farm operation.
According to the BBC's description of the programme: "Working for a full calendar year, Ruth, Alex and Peter are rediscovering a lost world of skills, crafts and knowledge, assisted by an ever-dwindling band of experts who keep Victorian rural practices alive."
The team employed steam-driven machinery as the Victorian age coincided with the industrial revolution, a period marked by significant transformation.
Viewer acclaim
Numerous viewers have lauded the series on IMDB, with one person awarding it a 10/10 rating and describing Victorian Farm as an "Excellent insight into the past". They continued: "The series itself is a wonderful journey into a time of change and invention. Ruth, Alex and Peter take us on their journey in at 19th century farm from hay-making, brewing cider and ale, ploughing, planting, laundry even toilet requirements."
Another viewer awarded it 9/10, writing: "I loved this show! Hope another like it will materialize [sic]."
A third reviewer, also giving it 9/10 stars, observed: "All those who talk about off grid must see this." They added: "These people are doing the actual sustainable off grid life. Tis a hard life."
Meanwhile, a fourth viewer commented on the platform: "If you like history, or just a relaxing informative watch, would definitely recommend."
Spin-offs and availability
The programme's popularity resulted in a three-episode festive special entitled Victorian Farm Christmas, which saw the trio returning to the estate 12 months later for a 19th-century-style Yuletide celebration.
Victorian Farm subsequently spawned follow-up series including Edwardian Farm, Wartime Farm, and Tudor Monastery Farm.
Victorian Farm is currently available to stream on Prime Video.
