Was the carol service really invented to lure locals out of the pub into church?
Which carol began life as a secret rallying cry to oppressed Catholics?
And why did "Silent Night" spread so rapidly round the world?
Discover the fascinating and often-surprising history of our most beloved carols, as popular historian Lucy Worsley uncovers their hidden stories on "Christmas Carols With Lucy Worsley."
Hear from a host of international experts and special guests, including the Hampton Court Choir and award-winning gospel group The Kingdom Choir.
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Lucy Worsley takes a horse and cart back in time to find out how "O' Little Town of Bethlehem" came about.
Lorian Reed-Drake / Copyright: BBC
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Lucy Worsley (third from left) takes a 16th century dance lesson from French troupe Bassa Toscana.
Lorian Reed-Drake / Copyright: BBC
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Lucy Worsley goes back to the French Renaissance to discover the surprising origins of a well-known Christmas carol.
Lorian Reed-Drake / Copyright: BBC
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Lucy Worsley meets Ely Cathedral Chorister, Emmanuelle Yembe.
Lorian Reed-Drake / Copyright: BBC
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Lucy Worsley with the choir of Hampton Court Chapel Royal.
Lorian Reed-Drake / Copyright: BBC
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Lucy Worsley passes round the wassail bowl, a pagan tradition which predates Christmas.
Lorian Reed-Drake / Copyright: BBC
This program is not available to stream on demand.
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Lucy Worsley is on Facebook, and you can follow @Lucy_Worsley on Twitter.
