The Dorset village of Milton Abbas features in a new television series starting next week.

'Pubs, Ponds and Power: The Story of the Village' sees archaeologist Ben Robinson exploring the development of villages from Norman times to the present day.

With historic churches, castles, market places and cottages, the English village is a magnet for tourists.

This cosy, picture postcard image is a snapshot of England which is recognised across the globe.

But the story of the village is not one of sleepy rural idylls. It is a story of purpose, persistence and power.

The BBC 4 series looks at how England’s greatest villages have evolved over time.

Episode 3 features Milton Abbas which Mr Robinson says perfectly captures our romantic notion of what the idyllic English village should look like.

But he reveals that behind it lurks a history of one man's wealth and power.

With help from local historians, he learns how the local landowner in the 18th century destroyed a nearby town, uprooting its residents, because it ruined the view from his house.

The landscape was transformed and a new village was built as part of his showpiece estate.

The series starts on Wednesday, January 30 on BBC 4 at 7.30pm.