Windsor Castle: A Royal Year

Narrated by Barbara Flynn, this exemplary BBC-produced, PBS-aired three-part series takes viewers on an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at Windsor Castle, the largest inhabited castle in the world, as well as the weekend home of HRH Queen Elizabeth II, with over 900 rooms, 300 live-in and working staff members, and one million annual visitors. Chronicling a year in the life of the castle, the series opens with “The Banquet,” which highlights the 100th anniversary of the Entente Cordiale celebration, including details on visiting French President Jacques Chirac and his wife's guest room (Ste. 240), unpacking guest bags (plastic hangers are a major faux pas: castle staff will replace them with covered ones), the meticulous seating plan (all situated precisely using an “official” measuring stick), tableware (six glasses for each setting), and the menu, not to mention an in-house performance of Les Miserables (the costumed cast members are shuttled from their London stage to the castle, where they are held up by Windsor protestors—possibly attracted by guest Tony Blair). “Four Seasons” showcases celebrations that include Garter Day, the Royal Ascot horse race, and Christmas; and the final episode, “The Ranger,” explores the grounds—including St. George's Chapel and the farm shop—on a tour guided by the Queen's husband Prince Philip, finishing off with footage of Prince Charles and Camilla's April 2005 wedding. Although seeing Prince William in a suit (yowza!) is almost worth the price of the program alone, this will also appeal to armchair travelers, royal gossipmongers, history buffs, or those who just want to drool over the ornate luxuriousness of the palace. Highly recommended. Editor's Choice. Aud: P. (J. Williams-Wood)