
Dr Xand van Tulleken tells how an extraordinary heatwave struck London in the summer in 1858 and a terrible stench began to rise from the River Thames.
Documentary • Series • 2023 • 1 season
Starring: Xand van Tulleken, Raksha Dave, JJ Chalmers

S1 E1 - Contagion
n the 19th century, thousands of gallons of raw sewage from across London was being dumped into the Thames every day. When a summer heatwave hit the city in 1858, it turned the river into a festering, noxious cesspool of filth. Xand van Tulleken reveals how the stench overwhelmed London, spreading sickness and fear.
Feb 16, 2023

S1 E2 - Saving London
Continuing the story of the 19th-century smell which dominated London. Xand van Tulleken reveals how Queen Victoria suffered from the stench - during a trip to see Isambard Kingdom Brunel's gigantic ship, the Great Eastern. Plus, Raksha Dave recreates the Great Stink with the help of a special-effects expert.
Feb 17, 2023
No clips or trailers are available for this title.
The Great Stink of 1858
Dr Xand van Tulleken tells how an extraordinary heatwave struck London in the summer in 1858 and a terrible stench began to rise from the River Thames.
Documentary • TV Series • 2023