Great British Railway Journeys

Ex-MP Michael Portillo traces the footsteps of cartographer George Bradshaw and embarks on a series of magnificent train journeys.

Great British Railway Journeys

Series 3 | Episode 18

Michael Portillo glugs a lovely Victorian brew, goes nuclear at Sellafield and visits a Japanese-inspired garden as he winds through charming Cumbria by rail.

Great British Railway Journeys

Series 3 | Episode 17

This Victorian voyage takes Michael Portillo to Hadrian's Wall, where he mucks in and enjoys some hands-on history. We also hear how ticket machines came to be.

Great British Railway Journeys

Series 3 | Episode 16

Another day, another destination - Michael Portillo journeys through majestic Northumberland, hearing the amazing story of Ashington's Pitmen Painters.

Great British Railway Journeys

Series 3 | Episode 15

Armed with George Bradshaw's seminal Victorian Railway Guidebook, Michael Portillo explores the 19th-century railway legacy en route to Pembrokeshire.

Great British Railway Journeys

Series 3 | Episode 14

Discover Cardiff's coal heritage and take a steam ride through the stunning Brecon Beacons. And when is an island not an island? Our roving host finds out in Barry.

Great British Railway Journeys

Series 3 | Episode 13

Michael Portillo travels the length and breadth of Britain by train, discovering micro-mines, romantic ruins and an iconic bridge as he chugs through south Wales.