Michael Portillo journeys by rail to discover one of Britain's most enduring landscapes: the ancient woodlands and pastures of the Weald, nestled in southeast England.

Michael Portillo’s journey through the ancient woodlands of south-east England—the Weald—continues from Tonbridge, a central hub within this historic railway landscape.

Michael Portillo's journey through the Weald now sweeps into the stunning landscapes of Surrey, uncovering an unexpected link to the vastness and mystery of space.

Michael Portillo's journey through the stunning landscapes of the Weald—across Surrey, Sussex, and Kent—moves onward, now traveling by the Gatwick Express.

Michael Portillo's journey through the verdant heartland stretching between the North and South Downs—the Weald—draws to a close.

Michael Portillo embarks on a railway journey through the breathtaking borderlands of Cumbria and Dumfriesshire, commencing within the magnificent landscape of the Lake District National Park.

Michael Portillo's journey progresses now, following the picturesque route of the Cumbrian Coast Line. Along the way, he explores a former iron ore mine, reimagined as a vibrant arts center, and uncovers the historical heartland of the Quak…

Michael Portillo’s rail adventure across Cumbria and Dumfriesshire ascends into the hills, tracing a path alongside the celebrated Lakeland poets.

Michael Portillo's rail voyage leads him through the Cumbrian and Dumfriesshire landscapes, bringing him to the gentle hills near Aspatria where he encounters a pair who have embraced a new existence as organic dairy farmers.

Michael's travels from Cumbria brought him to Dumfriesshire, culminating in a passage across the Solway Firth and into Scotland. There, he visited the exquisitely maintained final residence of Robert Burns, Scotland’s most celebrated poet.

Michael Portillo brings history to life by recreating the pivotal Battle of Shrewsbury and delves into the beauty of the town’s magnificent Gothic cathedral. He also experiences a journey aboard the Telford Steam Railway, traveling in the c…

Michael Portillo finds himself in Ironbridge Gorge, nestled along the River Severn—a place brimming with the ingenuity of the eighteenth century and home to the world’s very first coke-fired blast furnace.

Michael Portillo steps aboard a narrowboat on the Dudley Canal, where he uncovers evidence of a prehistoric seabed and delves into the fraught racial tensions that marked Smethwick in the 1960s.

Upon arriving in Birmingham, Michael Portillo makes his way to Curzon Street to observe the ongoing construction of the HS2 terminal. He then journeys into the Newtown district for a visit to Britain’s longest-established privately owned ma…

As his journey through the Midlands draws to a close, Michael Portillo arrives in Solihull, birthplace of the celebrated Land Rover. He then explores the familiar streets that formed the backdrop to J.R.R. Tolkien’s boyhood.

Michael Portillo begins an exploration of Essex, first venturing into the venerable depths of Epping Forest before uncovering the surprising history of Audley End House—a clandestine military school during the Second World War.

Michael's journey through Essex now takes him to Romford, where he explores a modern railway control center. Later, on the River Blackwater, he boards the Ross Revenge, the legendary floating studio of Radio Caroline.

Michael’s journey through Essex leads him to Chelmsford, where the city’s bishop shares a remarkable account—her own flight from Iran following the upheaval of the 1979 Islamic revolution.

Upon reaching the Essex market town of Witham, Michael turned toward the countryside, bound for a visit to one of the county's distinguished estates: Terling Place.

Michael’s journey through Essex nears its end. His travels lead him to Colchester, a place with a history stretching back to AD77 and one that confidently asserts itself as Britain's oldest documented settlement.