Horrible Histories
A solid choice
Ages 9–13First shown 2009
Sketches, cartoons and quizzes liberally splattered with blood and gore, based on the books published by Scholastic.
Our verdict
- Good influence 3/5
- Parent appeal 5/5
- Well made 5/5
Not toy-led No grating audio
Horrible Histories is a highly acclaimed sketch show celebrated for its sharp writing, talented ensemble cast, and brilliant musical parodies that entertain adults as much as children. While its educational value and wit are outstanding, earlier episodes have been criticised for their lack of diversity and insensitive caricatures of non-European cultures. Overall, it is regarded as an exceptionally well-crafted series that successfully makes history engaging through irreverent and often dark comedy.
Why these scores
Good influence
Does it show behaviour you'd be happy to see copied?
3out of 5
The show effectively models curiosity and an interest in learning through its humorous approach to history. However, the score is tempered by significant criticism regarding early seasons, where reviewers noted a Eurocentric perspective and the use of skin-darkening makeup and crude caricatures to represent non-white historical figures.
Parent appeal
Will you enjoy watching it with them?
5out of 5
This is widely considered a crossover hit that adults frequently watch for their own entertainment even without children present. Its sophisticated wit, parodies of popular culture, and similarities to classic British sketch comedy mean it is often described as being funnier than many shows aimed at grown-ups.
Well made
Are the writing, animation and sound made with care?
5out of 5
The production has been showered with prestigious awards, including BAFTAs and British Comedy Awards, for its exceptional writing, performances, and meticulously produced musical spoofs. Although some viewers noted a dip in the quality of writing and acting in later seasons following cast changes, the series is overall regarded as a high-water mark for children's television.
Watch-outs
Overstimulating: not enough data
We haven't found enough independent sources to say yet.
Not toy-led
The show is a public broadcast adaptation of an established educational book series, driven by a commitment to learning rather than a desire to sell merchandise.
No grating audio
Rather than being seen as annoying, the show's music is praised for its high production standards and clever lyrics. Parents frequently report that the songs are catchy and enjoyable to listen to even on repeat.
Where to watch
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DVD and Blu-ray
Streaming availability from Watchmode.
Last updated 11 October 2026.