Television at its best
I watched these series at the time and had almost forgotten them. It was an eye-opener to watch them again. I hadn't really noticed the BBC dumbing down but when you watch these programmes you realise that it is going on.

The most striking thing is that in these series there is no 5-minute explanation of what you might've missed last week, or of what to expect next week or constant repetition of who everyone is and what they've just told you. In these half-hour programmes, you really do get 30 minutes of material.

Apart from that, these 3 series are very informative, well presented and a fascinating insight into the past. Some of the techniques are worth trying at home or on the allotment, as well. Well worth the money, although I see the price has gone up since I bought them.

Stunning
I can't fault these DVDs and agree utterly with the 2 previous reviewers: this is the stuff the Beeb should be making. The number of people I know who loved the series when it was on is considerable. I was only 6 at the time, so I can also vouch for its appeal to a somewhat younger audience than its original viewers! It hasn't dated at all. Dodson, Mott and Thoday are all engaging and the material is well-presented and fascinating whether your route into the series is through the garden or the kitchen. One of the best buys I have ever made.

Wonderful
I agree totally with everything that DWM says. The 'Victorian Kitchen/Garden' series were superb productions by the BBC, something that they sadly no longer make. They are such a pleasure to watch and are NOT dumbed down in the slightest; instead they are informative, entertaining and a most relaxing experience.

Wonderful. 10/10

One of the finest
I missed this when it was on the TV. It is quite marvellous - it is a real eye-opener as to how British TV has gone downhill over the last ten or so years. BBC produced this kind of quality product with consummate ease for years, and they still can when they realise very few are obsessed with gormless celebrity culture. Anyway - my wife has really been inspired by the series to grow veg. and the series is beautifully produced and shot. What an amazing man Harry Dodson was - talented, self-effacing and completely at ease with himself. A rare series - losing nothing over the last twenty-odd years.

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