The Best David Attenborough Documentaries to Watch on Freesat

Who is Sir David Attenborough? 

If you don’t already know (and how is that even possible?) Sir David Attenborough, a.k.a. a national treasure, is a renowned natural historian, biologist, broadcaster and author who has been on our television screens for more than sixty years.  

Attenborough's birthday is on 8th May when he'll be turning 98 this year, and after a lifetime of dedicating himself to exploring and documenting the natural world his latest passion has been to warn us of the dangers of climate change, and how we can try to save the planet, the animals, plants and environments he is so passionate about.

In fact, in December 2020 he was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award for his incredible contributions to television, and more recently was awarded the Champions of the Earth Lifetime Achievement Award, the EU’s most distinguished environmental award. He even has seven creatures and fossils named after him, showing quite how huge his impact has been!

Even in his late-90s, Attenborough is still continuing his life's passion for educating and raising awareness of some of the planet's most remarkable wildlife. 

How many documentaries has David Attenborough done? 

Attenborough has been in a whopping 100+ documentaries (and counting!) His first documentary aired way back in 1954 and was called Zoo Quest, which followed him and a team of zoologists travelling to Sierra Leone to collect animals for the London Zoo. This original documentary can now be viewed in colour on BBC iPlayer, along with many other top documentaries from the legendary broadcaster. Let’s take a look at a few more of Attenborough’s work... 

 The Best David Attenborough Documentaries:  

In no particular order, here are some of the best David Attenborough documentaries to watch right now.

1. Wild Isles

Watch on BBC iPlayer 

Full of an extraordinary array of wildlife and unique ecosystems from killer whales to red squirrels, freshwater rivers to lush ancient forest, discover the wildness of Britain in this stunning documentary series. Watch all six episodes now on BBC iPlayer. 

2. Frozen Planet and Frozen Planet II

Watch on BBC iPlayer 

Frozen Planet takes viewers on a journey to the Arctic and Antarctic, showcasing the stunning landscapes and wildlife that thrive in these harsh environments. From polar bears to penguins, Attenborough's narration guides viewers through the challenges faced by these animals and the impact of climate change on their habitats. Watch Frozen Planet on BBC iPlayer and experience the wonder of the frozen world.

3. Planet Earth 

Watch on BBC iPlayer 

Considered one of the greatest nature documentaries of all time, Planet Earth showcases stunning landscapes and diverse animal life from around the globe. The documentary was shot over five years and was the first to use high-definition cameras, making it a must-watch for any nature lover. Stream Planet Earth on BBC iPlayer and experience Attenborough's narration as you've never heard it before.  As well as Planet Earth, you can also watch Planet Earth: A Celebration which sees scenes from Planet Earth against a musical score from renowned composers Hans Zimmer and Jacob Shea, as well as Dave on piano.

4. Life on Earth

Watch on BBC iPlayer

This landmark series was Attenborough's first major documentary, and it's still one of his best. Life on Earth takes a comprehensive look at the history of life on our planet, from the first single-celled organisms to complex mammals. The documentary uses stunning visuals and Attenborough's signature narration to create an immersive experience that will leave you in awe. Stream Life on Earth on BBC iPlayer and learn about the fascinating history of our planet.

5. Dynasties 

Watch on BBC iPlayer 

Narrated by Sir David Attenborough, this documentary series explored the secret lives of animal families, from drama and betrayal to fights for survival. Watch this captivating, intimate and often heart-wrenching series on BBC iPlayer.  

6. David Attenborough: A Life on Our Planet 

Watch on Netflix 

It’s clear that at this stage in his career Attenborough is not only looking to solidify his legacy, but also to pass on what he believes is an important and vital lesson. Released in 2020, Netflix’s A Life on Our Planet gave Attenborough a chance to present his ‘witness statement’, showing his perspective on the mistakes we’ve made as a society is damaging the planet and how we can put it right by ‘working with nature, rather than against it.’ With the signature beauty we’ve come to associate with Attenborough documentaries, it’s both a wonderous and harrowing piece that imparts an important message and ends with hope for our future.   

7. The Green Planet 

Watch on BBC iPlayer 

Of course, the natural world is about more than animals. In fact, the real stars are the plants and greenery which facilitate all life on the planet. In this 2022 documentary series, Attenborough puts the focus on wild plants, from the tropics to under the sea, to explore their lives, how they affect the ecosystem and the struggles they face. Thanks to cutting-edge technology, see plants in a whole new way in The Green Planet on BBC iPlayer.  

8. Blue Planet II 

Watch on BBC iPlayer 

Blue Planet II dives deep into the world's oceans, revealing the mesmerizing beauty and complexity of marine life. From the tiniest microorganisms to majestic whales, the documentary takes viewers on an immersive journey, showcasing the diverse inhabitants of the underwater world. Watch Blue Planet II on BBC iPlayer and discover the breathtaking beauty of our oceans.

9. Our Planet 

Watch on Netflix 

Thanks to the latest technology and Ultra High Definition, we can explore and experience some of our planet’s most awe-inspiring natural beauty as never before. From jungles to oceans and mountains, get up close and personal with some amazing animals in stunning detail, while also getting insights into how climate change and human industry have devastating effects on all living creatures, ourselves included.  

10. Planet Earth III

Watch on BBC iPlayer 

In the latest series of Planet Earth - the BBC's award-winning natural history programme - Sir David Attenborough embarks on a journey that takes us to the farthest reaches of the planet. Prepare to be transported for the third series true in Attenborough-style as the acclaimed broadcaster showcases the resilience of our planet, sharing stories of the wonders of Earth in the most mesmerising way.

11. Attenborough’s Passion Projects 

Watch on BBC iPlayer 

In a slightly different documentary series, Sir David Attenborough himself has chosen four of his favourite documentary films marking several passion projects of his own, including his 1971 film A Blank on the Map which sees an expedition into the heart of Papua New Guinea with the previously unknown Biami tribe, as well as his own quest to find the origins of a strange wooden figurine which he bought at auction which took him all the way to Easter Island. Watch all four episodes now on BBC iPlayer.