Great British Railway Journeys

2010•7 series

Available on U&Yesterday

Cartographer George Bradshaw produced the first comprehensive timetable and travel guide of Great Britain's railway system in 1840. Armed with his Bradshaw's Guide, presenter Michael Portillo travels around the country by train exploring the ways that society and industry have changed since the guide was first published during the Victorian era. In each destination Michael visits local landmarks, meets residents, enjoys local food, and tries his hand at local crafts and manufacture, and considers the legacy of the industrial revolution as he makes he way across the country.

Episode 1Biggin Hill to Ashdown Forest

Michael Portillo takes a trip in a Second World War Spitfire above Biggin Hill aerodrome.

Episode 2Hassocks to Benenden

Michael Portillo arrives in Hassocks and the beautiful Sussex village of Ditchling, before making his way to the village of Benenden.

Episode 3Rye to Dungness

Michael Portillo follows his 1930s Bradshaw's guide to the unspoilt East Sussex port of Rye, then boards the Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch railway to Dungeness.

Episode 4Deal to Margate

Michael Portillo heads to Walmer Castle, home during the 1920s to Lord Beauchamp, and in Margate he discovers the connection to TS Eliot.

Episode 5Herne Bay to Leeds Castle, Kent

Michael Portillo reaches the Kent seaside resort of Herne Bay, eventually crosses the North Downs to Lenham, and pays a visit to Leeds Castle.

Episode 6Chislehurst to Kennington

Michael Portillo continues his travels in Greater London, ending up in Kennington to learn about the childhood of Charlie Chaplin.

Episode 7Hackney Wick to Oxford Circus

Michael Portillo continues his travels through the capital in the heart of London's East End, making his way from Hackney Wick to Oxford Circus.

Episode 8Hampstead to Islington

Michael Portillo travels to Hampstead, where he learns more about the founder of psychoanalysis, Sigmund Freud, before making his way to Islington.

Episode 9Dagenham to Battersea

Michael Portillo is in London, where he tracks the River Thames from east to west. Starting in Dagenham, he ends up at the iconic Battersea Power Station.

Episode 10Park Royal to Westminster

Michael Portillo discovers the origins of Harry Beck's map of the London Underground, and explores the headquarters of Churchill's war cabinet.

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