Alexandra Harris tells the story of how the weather has written and painted itself into the cultural life of Britain. When the rivers froze: frost fairs and merry making on ice.

The winter of 1608-9 was so cold that the Thames froze over.

The great highway of London was at a halt. Then, tents were being thrown up and barrels of ale rolled out. Soon there was bowling and skittles, musicians were playing, there was dancing, drinking, eating. The out-of-work ferrymen set aside their oars and took charge of the impromptu carnival.

A British History in Weather is a celebration of the British climate and a life story of those who have lived in it.

Music by Jon Nicholls.

Producer: Tim Dee

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 2016. Show less