Alexandra Harris tells the story of how the weather has written and painted itself into the cultural life of Britain. Why does British rain fall on British people?

Imagine a history told in rain. From King Offa's Mercia, to Saint Swithin, Milton and Dr Johnson.

How do they feel? Do they go indoors? Does the rain they see an ill omen or a blessing?

It never rains in the same way twice, and even in the same shower, no two people see it in the same way.

The shipping forecast takes us on a ritual tour of rain as it falls in darkness on the sea. Images form of places we have probably never been. Listening, we think of others listening. Rain, then showers. Moderate, occasionally poor.

Music by Jon Nicholls.

Producer: Tim Dee

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2016. Show less