The UnXplained with William Shatner

SECRETS OF ABANDONED PLACES - From ancient Babylonian ruins to modern urban explorers, this documentary series delivers drama and intrigue in every episode, revealing why mankind has always been fascinated by deserted sites. A British TV programme that offers UK television viewers a quick overview at a glance, full of programme highlights and compelling entertainment, perfect for the Blaze (Freeview) programming slot in the television guide.

PROGRAMME OVERVIEW SECRETS OF ABANDONED PLACES is a six‑part documentary series that journeys from the crumbling ziggurats of ancient Babylon to the graffiti‑streaked factories of today’s urban explorers. Each episode unpacks the timeless human fascination with places left behind, weaving archaeology, history and modern adventure into a compelling narrative. The series is designed as a comprehensive guide for UK television fans who love British TV that blends education with high‑octane entertainment, offering full details of the sites, the people who study them and the stories that still echo through empty corridors. WHAT TO EXPECT Viewers will be taken on a globe‑spanning odyssey, beginning with the forgotten temples of Mesopotamia, moving through the medieval castles of Scotland, and ending with the post‑industrial wastelands of northern England. The programme balances stunning cinematography with in‑depth interviews, giving an in‑depth review of each location’s cultural significance and the modern techniques used to document decay. Every episode is a self‑contained adventure yet part of a larger series narrative that highlights how each era’s abandonment reflects broader social change. KEY FEATURES The series boasts a cast of leading historians, archaeologists and charismatic urban explorers, each bringing expertise and personality to the screen. Production values are top‑tier, with drone footage, night‑vision lenses and 4K resolution that make the decay feel vivid and immediate. Unique selling points include never‑before‑seen archival material, interactive maps for the UK viewer, and a dramatic soundtrack that turns each documentary episode into a quasi‑drama experience without sacrificing factual rigour. WHY WATCH For discerning UK viewers, SECRETS OF ABANDONED PLACES offers more than a simple travelogue; it is a deep dive into the psychology of loss, memory and curiosity. The series satisfies a craving for thoughtful entertainment, delivering both the thrill of exploration and the intellectual reward of historical context. It is perfect for those who appreciate a well‑crafted documentary that feels as gripping as a drama, making it a must‑see addition to any British TV lover’s television guide. Blaze (Freeview) PROGRAMMING CONTEXT Positioned within the Blaze (Freeview) programming slate, the series complements flagship documentary strands such as “The Great British Story” and “Time Team”. Its placement on a prime‑time slot ensures maximum reach for UK audiences seeking quality entertainment that also educates. By aligning with Blaze (Freeview)’s reputation for high‑calibre factual series, SECRETS OF ABANDONED PLACES reinforces the channel’s commitment to delivering compelling, well‑researched content that resonates with both domestic and international viewers.