18:00 – 18:30 | Bill Oddie Goes Wild
Bill Oddie returns with a compilation of the best clips from his three‑series wildlife saga. It’s a light‑hearted pick‑me‑up that still keeps the naturalist’s charm. A reliable way to start the evening.
18:30 – 19:00 | Birding with Bill Oddie
Oddie revisits childhood spots, noting how 50 years of change have altered the landscape. The nostalgic tone offers a gentle counterpoint to the later drama.
19:00 – 20:00 | Bill Oddie’s Top Ten Birds
Counting down Britain’s most beloved and most villainous birds, this segment blends humour with audience interaction. It holds up well as a short, entertaining break.
20:00 – 21:00 | Debuts at the Proms
Celebrating landmark premieres and the first appearances of artists, orchestras, and instruments, this musical highlight offers a sophisticated listening experience. Its HD presentation delivers an engaging visual accompaniment.
21:00 – 22:35 | Black Watch
A hard‑hitting play that gives a frank account of a Scottish regiment in Iraq. The strong language and intense scenes create a gritty, reflective narrative that tests the viewer’s patience but rewards with depth.
22:35 – 23:35 | Black Watch: A Soldier’s Story
A further look into the National Theatre of Scotland’s work on the Iraq War. The focus on personal perspective adds emotional weight to the earlier drama.
23:35 – 00:35 | Jane Austen: The Unseen Portrait?
Martha Kearney follows Dr Paula Byrne’s investigation into a possible lost portrait of Jane Austen. The blend of history and mystery offers a quiet, thoughtful viewing choice.
00:35 – 01:35 | Debuts at the Proms (repeat)
Re‑watching the Proms session can be a smooth transition from the earlier drama, especially for music lovers.
01:35 – 02:05 | Bill Oddie Goes Wild (repeat)
Another chance to enjoy the compilation, this time in a quieter late‑night slot.
02:05 – 02:35 | Birding with Bill Oddie (repeat)
For those who missed it earlier, a brief revisit of the birding journey.
02:35 – 04:30 | This is BBC Four
Closing the night with a recap of the channel’s offerings, a useful wrap‑up for new viewers.
Bottom Line
BBC Four delivers a balanced mix of light entertainment, thoughtful drama and cultural celebration. Start with Bill Oddie’s wildlife charm, move into the powerful Black Watch narrative, and finish with the musical grandeur of the Proms. The schedule offers something for every mood.