World of Stonehenge

Neil Oliver journeys across Britain and Ireland’s Stone Age monuments, uncovering the religious and sociological secrets that shaped these ancient sacred sites. Each episode of this documentary series, part of UK television’s slate, offers programme highlights at a glance for British TV and PBS America (Freeview) viewers. A quick overview perfect for the television guide, it blends drama and entertainment for UK viewers seeking a fresh take on our prehistoric past.

Age of Cosmology is a new documentary series that sees archaeologist and presenter Neil Oliver travel across Britain and Ireland to investigate the most enigmatic Stone Age monuments. In this first episode, Oliver explores sites such as Stonehenge, the Callanish Stones, Newgrange and the Avebury henge, uncovering the religious and sociological meanings that ancient peoples attached to these sacred places. The programme blends on‑location filming with expert interviews, 3‑D reconstructions and the latest scientific research, offering a full details look at how early societies understood the cosmos. Viewers can anticipate a richly layered narrative that moves beyond the usual travelogue format. Oliver delves into the astronomical alignments, burial rituals and communal gatherings that defined the Stone Age landscape, while also examining how myth and memory have shaped modern interpretations. Each segment is anchored by clear explanations of archaeological methodology, making the series both an entertaining drama of discovery and a rigorous documentary for UK television audiences. The episode’s pacing balances sweeping aerial shots with intimate close‑ups, ensuring an in‑depth review that feels both scholarly and accessible. The series stands out for its use of cutting‑edge visual technology, including laser‑scanned reconstructions that reveal how the monuments would have appeared in their original settings. Highlights include a night‑time visit to Newgrange during the winter solstice, where Oliver demonstrates the precise solar illumination of the inner chamber, and a comparative analysis of the social structures that built the Callanish circle. Expert commentary from leading British and Irish archaeologists adds credibility, while Oliver’s engaging storytelling keeps the documentary firmly in the realm of compelling entertainment. Age of Cosmology taps into a deep national fascination with heritage sites that dot the British and Irish countryside. By linking ancient cosmology to contemporary cultural identity, the series resonates with viewers who value both history and scientific inquiry. The programme’s emphasis on local landscapes, regional folklore and the enduring mystery of the stones makes it a perfect fit for British TV fans seeking a thoughtful yet visually stunning exploration of their own past. Its blend of education and drama ensures it will be a staple in any television guide for discerning UK viewers. Although produced for PBS America, the series is broadcast on Freeview, positioning it alongside other high‑quality documentary offerings in the channel’s schedule. This placement highlights the network’s commitment to bringing internationally acclaimed series to UK screens, enriching the PBS America (Freeview) programming slate with content that complements existing history and science strands. As part of a broader series, the episode serves as a gateway for audiences to explore further episodes that examine other prehistoric sites across the globe, reinforcing the channel’s reputation for premium, educational entertainment.