Uncovering Britain’s hidden heritage: Hidden Treasures returns for a fourth series

Posted on 15 May 2026 • Arts and social sciences, TV and radio

A new OU / BBC series, Hidden Treasures of the National Trust begins Friday 15 May at 9pm on BBC Two and BBC iPlayer.

The series, now returning for its fourth run, provides rare behind-the-scenes access to National Trust properties across the UK, revealing the painstaking work involved in conserving priceless artefacts and preserving historic sites for future generations.

From the literary homes of celebrated authors and grand Georgian estates to the remote Farne Islands and the distinctive rock houses of Kinver Edge, the series travels across a rich variety of landscapes and historic settings. From literary legacies and scandalous relationships to wildlife conservation and industrial heritage, each episode uncovers compelling human stories intertwined with Britain’s cultural landscape.

The series was supported by Professor Clare Taylor, Professor of Art History & Material Cultures and Dr Andrew Murray, Lecturer in Art History, who provided the academic expertise for the programme.

On how her experience of National Trust properties informed her work on the series, Professor Clare Taylor said:

“I have visited a lot of the properties, and that experience informed my work on the series. Having spent time on the River Dart opposite Greenway, I was able to highlight the importance of viewing Agatha Christie’s house from the water. Its boathouse plays a critical role in one of her books, as we discover in the series.”

Dr Andrew Murray added:

“I grew up visiting National Trust properties across the north of England, and those early experiences stayed with me. I have strong memories of places like Calke Abbey, which influenced my contribution to the project.”

Supporting Online content:

Visit our Broadcast & Partnerships site OU Connect where you can discover how different landscapes have shaped these hidden treasures with an interactive guide.

This series was commissioned by Broadcast & Partnerships and is supported by the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, with particular relevance to R27 BA (Honours) Art History and Visual Cultures, R14 BA (Honours) Arts and Humanities (Art History), and F45 MA in Art History.

Commissioned by Dr Caroline Ogilvie, Director, Broadcast & Partnerships

• Academic Consultants: Professor Clare Taylor and Dr Andrew Murray

• Media Fellow: Dr Emily Bullock

• Broadcast Project Manager: Clair Robinson

• Supporting Online Content: Xinmiao Zhang

Image Credit: Blast Films