Quick Summary
At a glance, this ITV4 documentary series offers programme highlights from classic British TV sport coverage, from the thunder of horse racing to the speed of Formula One and the precision of darts. A quick overview perfect for the television guide, each episode blends drama and entertainment for UK viewers who love UK television and ITV4 programming.
About This Program
Programme overview A new documentary series titled brings together three of Britain’s most beloved pastimes – horse racing, Formula One and darts – into a single, compelling programme. Each episode of the series delves into the history, personalities and iconic moments that defined these sports on British TV, offering UK viewers a nostalgic yet fresh perspective. The series is scheduled on ITV4, a channel renowned for its specialist sports and entertainment content, and it fits neatly into the network’s tradition of celebrating the nation’s sporting heritage. What to expect from the content The series is structured as three hour‑long episodes, each dedicated to one sport. The horse racing episode traces the evolution of the Grand National and the rise of legendary trainers, while the Formula One installment revisits the golden era of British drivers and the technical innovations that reshaped the sport. The darts episode shines a light on the rise of the sport from smoky pubs to the bright lights of the World Championship, featuring interviews with former champions and behind‑the‑scenes footage of iconic matches. Viewers can anticipate a blend of archival clips, expert commentary and personal anecdotes that together create a full details portrait of each discipline. Key features and highlights Among the programme’s standout features are never‑before‑seen interviews with Sir Alex Ferguson’s racing stable, a rare look at Jim Clark’s 1960s Formula One car, and a tribute to the late Eric Bristow, the “Crafty Cockney” of darts. The series also incorporates interactive graphics that map historic racecourses, chart championship points, and illustrate the technical progression of racing cars. Each episode concludes with a contemporary roundup, showing how the sport continues to influence British TV and entertainment today, making the series both a documentary and a celebration of sport as drama. Why this programme appeals to UK audiences British TV audiences have a long‑standing affection for sport as a cultural touchstone, and this series taps into that sentiment by offering an in‑depth review of three uniquely British phenomena. The blend of nostalgia, expert analysis and human stories resonates with viewers who grew up watching these events on ITV, while also attracting a new generation eager to understand the roots of today’s sporting spectacles. By weaving together drama, history and entertainment, the programme provides a comprehensive guide that satisfies both casual fans and dedicated enthusiasts. Context within ITV4 programming ITV4 has built its reputation on delivering specialist sport and classic entertainment, and this series reinforces that identity. Positioned alongside live race coverage, classic Grand Prix re‑runs and darts tournaments, the documentary series adds depth to ITV4 programming by offering context and background that enriches the viewing experience. For UK television lovers seeking a well‑rounded television guide to the nation’s sporting past, this series stands out as a must‑watch addition to the channel’s schedule.
The Best of the 70s broadcasts on ITV4 at 6:00am, Thursday, 6 November 2025. (Subtitles)

