BBC Four HD Today

Leonora Carrington: The Lost Surrealist – a compelling BBC Four documentary that reveals the story of England’s overlooked surrealist star, a pivotal figure in 1930s Paris who slipped into obscurity in the UK after moving to Mexico.

The Gunpowder Plot – a compelling BBC Four documentary that delves into the 1605 conspiracy, revealing how a handful of radicalised Catholic Englishmen plotted to annihilate Parliament.

Lincoln to Nottingham (episode) - Narrowboater Robbie Cumming confronts a string of challenges when his vessel runs aground and breaks down in Nottingham.

Salvation – Historian Dan Snow reveals how the Celts rescued Britain from cultural oblivion during the Dark Ages, highlighting their pivotal role in preserving the nation’s heritage.

Ulster Museum (episode) – Dublin‑born social historian Emma Dabiri guides viewers through the Ulster Museum’s collection, showing how art can reshape the way we see the world.

Loughborough to Braunston - Robbie Cumming battles icy conditions on the Grand Union Canal before arriving in Braunston, the revered heart of narrowboat culture.

The Secret Rules of Modern Living: Algorithms (one-off) – Mathematician Marcus du Sautoy demystifies the hidden world of algorithms that silently drive everything from search engines to sat‑navs, revealing how they shape everyday life.

Winterwatch 1963: The Big Freeze (one‑off) – Chris Packham presents a BBC archive documentary that revisits the harshest British winter of the 20th century, revealing how the extreme cold reshaped the country's wildlife.

Emma Thompson and Paul Murton Remember - The Blue Boy – Emma Thompson and Paul Murton revisit the 1995 TV drama The Blue Boy, reflecting on its lasting impact, while reminiscing about their shared Scottish summer childhoods and a mutual love of ghost stories.

The Blue Boy – A heartfelt drama on BBC Four HD follows an expectant couple seeking a fresh start in the Scottish Highlands, featuring standout performances by Emma Thompson and Adrian Dunbar.

The Picnic – A middle‑aged schoolteacher marries a former pupil, only to suspect he may be a murderer, in a gripping BBC Four drama starring Billie Whitelaw and Iain Glen.