Best documentaries on BBC iPlayer

Documentary exploring a century of change in Britain through the prism of Elizabeth II's life. Through archive and eyewitness reflections, the film explores how she led the monarchy through profound social, political and cultural change. With contributions from Helen Mirren, David Attenborough, Barack Obama, Tony Blair, and HM Queen Camilla

Director Simon Draper set out to make a podcast with actress Miriam Margolyes, but the project soon became sidetracked as he was drawn ever deeper into her orbit. The podcast turned into a chaotic, joyful road trip, revealing Miriam's true legacy isn't just her work, but the lives she has quietly transformed, beginning with the film-maker himself

For over 50 years the disappearance of McCartney's original Höfner bass has been one of rock 'n' roll's enduring mysteries. This is the extraordinary story of this iconic instrument, and the fan powered quest to find it.

Charting Michael Jackson's journey from child prodigy to global icon, examining the genius, controversy, trials and tragedy that shaped and continue to divide his legacy

David Attenborough reveals the hidden wild world of Britain's backyards. Because even in familiar surroundings, the rules of the wild are still in force.

Documentary following the work of biologists and conservationists as they work year-round to protect the biodiversity of Britain's 15 national parks

The inside story of how America and China have become locked in a battle for global power and influence since Donald Trump first took office

On March 13, 1996, Thomas Hamilton walked into the gym hall in Dunblane Primary School in Stirlingshire and shot dead 16 pupils and their teacher Gwen Mayor, seriously injuring 14 other pupils and two teachers. This documentary follows the campaign to ban private handgun ownership in the UK in the wake of the massacre, revealing how a group of ordinary people forced the government to ensure the tragedy could not happen again

Documentary about the fate of British photojournalist John Cantlie, who was kidnapped in Syria alongside his American colleague and friend James Foley

The journalist finds out what the future holds for Europe in a world where it can no longer fully rely on America