Ep 1. Episode 1

Set in the heart of rural England during the early 16th century, Tudor Monastery Farm follows the endeavors of a team of historians and archaeologists as they attempt to recreate and operate a fully functioning farm using only the resources, techniques, and knowledge available during the Tudor era. Each episode showcases the incredible challenges and obstacles this team faces as they strive to live and operate in the same way as their ancestors did over 400 years ago.

In the first episode, aptly named "Episode 1," we are introduced to the team and their location. The team is comprised of historian Ruth Goodman, archaeologists Peter Ginn and Tom Pinfold, and their trusty apprentice Alex Langlands. The team invites us to a remote patch of land near the village of Weobley, where they will spend the next 12 months living and working as the Tudors did, running a working farm as it would have been in 1500.

We follow the team as they begin to transform the land, clearing trees and bushes, and preparing the soil for farming. The team narrates the process and explains how the Tudors would have approached the work. They emphasis the cooperation that would have been required and the back-breaking labor that would be necessary to get the land ready for planting.

As the work of clearing the land continues, we are also introduced to the dilemma of constructing the farmhouse. The team plans to build Tudor-style homes on the land, but to do so would require felling large trees both for structural supports and for firewood to heat the homes. The team ponders this dilemma, as deforesting such a large area could have a potentially devastating impact on the local ecosystem. This consideration illustrates a critical difference between the Tudor era and our modern times.

As the team works, we are treated to many lovely visuals showcasing the stunning English countryside. The picturesque fields, soaring hills, and expansive cloud-filled skies serve as a reminder of the beauty of this ancient land. We are also treated to various animal actors as the team sets to work tending to livestock, including pigs, sheep, and cows. The team explains how these animals represent enormous wealth for Tudor farmers, as they are the primary means of producing food and other resources.

Throughout the episode, we learn of the struggles of Tudor-era farmers to provide for their families while ensuring their livestock receives proper care. The team must confront these same concerns, navigating issues like parasites, excess weight, and the complexities of caring for their livestock in the changing seasons.

As the episode closes, we are left riveted to see how this team of plucky historians and archaeologists will fare as they continue their Tudor journey, living and working in the same way their ancestors did more than four centuries ago. The challenges they face will test their craftsmanship, strength, and fortitude, but the end goal is well worth it: the opportunity to uncover and preserve the intricate behaviors and techniques of a bygone era, all while protecting the precious landscape and heritage that are the birthright of all who call England home.

In "Episode 1," Tudor Monastery Farm introduces us to a fascinating and ambitious project to recreate a way of life that no longer exists in our modern world. Through stunning visuals and a wealth of knowledge, this show takes us on a captivating journey into the past, reminding us of the diligence and creativity of our ancestors and offering a window into a time and place lost to history. Don't miss this thought-provoking debut as the Tudor team sets out to make their Tudor Monastery Farm a reality.