Like many modern families, the Ashby Hawkins home is stuffed full of tablets, computers, phones, and gadgets to distract them in their spare time. But for one summer they agreed to give up all their 21st century technology and travel back in time, to experience the radical transformation of our leisure time since 1950.The family's own home becomes their time machine as they are transported back to a different decade each week. Guided by presenters Giles Coren and social historian Polly Russell, the family's entire experience is underpinned by The Family Expenditure Survey, a government study which ran from the 50s right through to 1999. The survey's detailed spending records give us the best possible clue as to what families were doing with their leisure time across the five decades.
In episode one the family enter the 1950s, so it's goodbye to their flat screen TV and hello to a piano, darning and a pipe to keep them amused. It's the era of formality and austerity, as many families bought little more than fags and a spool of thread from week to week.
The family head into the 60s and get a taste of the radical style of the era as they are encouraged to smash up their piano. Sir Trevor Brooking teaches Dad Rob and son Seth how to play Subbuteo. Daisy and Steph meet Sandie Shaw to discuss the fashion of the era.
The family back to the 1970s, discovering the unexpected upsides of the economic and political turmoil that the decade is known for. Rob and Steph play darts with Eric Bristow. Daisy goes to a disco run by Trevor Nelson and Angela Rippon delivers a new car.
The family embrace the 80s this week, as the home receives a VCR and home computer. Steph also receives a pager. Caryn Franklin gives Rob a 80s style makeover.
The family are exposed to early incarnations of the internet and games consoles. Mr Motivator leads a session at the local gym and Linda Barker and Tommy Walsh give the families house and garden a makeover.
The family explore what the future holds for how we will spend our free time. They also reflect on their time living in the past and how it will change how they live in the present.
Complete episode guide for Back in Time for the Weekend with detailed information about every season and episode including air dates, summaries, ratings, and streaming availability in United States.
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