Watch Elizabeth I's Secret Agents

Elizabeth I's Secret Agents is a fascinating historical documentary series that first aired on BBC2 in 2017. The series takes a deep dive into the often treacherous world of Elizabethan espionage, examining the spies and secret agents who helped to shape the reign of Queen Elizabeth I.

At the heart of the series are three charismatic historians, Colin Tierney, Dominic Green and Kevin James, each of whom brings their own unique perspective and expertise to the table. Together, they use a combination of archival research, dramatic reconstructions and on-location filming to paint a vivid picture of the Elizabethan era, weaving together stories of espionage, betrayal, and political intrigue.

The series is divided into three hour-long episodes, each of which focuses on a different aspect of Elizabethan espionage. The first episode, titled "The Secret War", sets the stage for the rest of the series, examining the complex web of alliances and rivalries that defined Elizabethan politics. We learn about the key players in the spy games of the day, including Francis Walsingham, Elizabeth's spymaster, and Robert Dudley, her favourite.

The second episode, "The Queen's Man", focuses on the figure of William Cecil, Elizabeth's trusted advisor and one of the most important men in her court. We learn about Cecil's key role in the formation of the Elizabethan intelligence network, as well as his long-standing rivalry with Dudley.

Finally, in the third and final episode, "Silent Service", we delve into the shadowy world of Elizabethan codebreaking and cryptography, examining the techniques used by both Elizabethan spies and their enemies in order to decode and intercept secret messages.

Throughout the series, the three historians are superb guides, shedding light on the complex political and social context in which Elizabethan espionage took place. Their expertise is brought to life through a combination of on-location filming (including stunning shots of Elizabethan castles, churches and other historic sites) and dramatic reconstructions that help to bring the stories to life.

One of the key strengths of the series is its focus on the human side of espionage. We learn about the real-world consequences of espionage, from the bitter rivalries that led to the downfall of key players such as Dudley and Mary, Queen of Scots, to the heartwarming tales of ordinary people who risked everything to help the Queen and her agents.

Despite its focus on history, Elizabeth I's Secret Agents is a fast-paced and engaging series that will appeal to a wide range of viewers. The combination of dramatic reconstructions, expert analysis and stunning locations makes for a thrilling and immersive viewing experience, while the three charismatic historians bring a personal touch to the material that keeps the audience engaged throughout.

Overall, Elizabeth I's Secret Agents is a superb achievement, a documentary series that manages to make the complex world of Elizabethan espionage both comprehensible and compelling. Whether you're a history buff or simply looking for an engrossing and entertaining show, this series is well worth a watch.