Great Coastal Railway Journeys

In a stunning new series Michael Portillo explores coastal regions of the British Isles in eight, five episode rail journeys hugging the shores of the four nations of the United Kingdom Taking a fresh look at the regional identities of coastal Britain, where nowhere is further than 70 miles from the sea, he’ll use the unique access the railways offer to experience the magnificence of the geography and geology of the UK. Aboard coastal and heritage lines he’ll travel the length and breadth of this diverse nation from the Highlands of Scotland to the Isle of Wight. Ever the politician, Michael will relish meeting each region’s inhabitants, passionate and proud of their history, culture and identity, to experience and hear what makes it special and to understand how they guard its vibrant character today. Each of Michael’s rail journeys will present a modern train traveller’s take on a coastal region, which offers an understanding of the history that has shaped it and the challenges it faces today.