Of tough warrior stock, the Normans turned a toehold in northern France into one of the greatest power bases of early Europe. Here they built soaring churches and formidable castles – and launched one of the greatest seaborne invasions ever.

The Battle of Hastings is one of the most famous in history. But what events led up to it and was a Norman victory inevitable? What was at stake as the two armies faced each other on that October day in 1066? And, once it was over, was it the end of rebellion and turmoil?

Find the answers to these questions as you witness the fortunes of a country turned upside down by that mightiest of warriors, William the Conqueror. Follow his extraordinary story and see how he changed the face of England, and the course of history, forever.   

This DVD is accompanied by a beautifully illustrated 24-page hardcover book. Watch and discover the secrets of cultures that thrived for centuries and then disappeared, and at the same time read the captivating book packed with intriguing facts, illustrations, photography and more.

Narrated by John Morgan
Produced by Opus Television for S4C International, France 5 and TG4 in association with History Channel UK (2004).

 To watch a pre-view of this DVD please visit YouTube or watch it at the bottom of this page