Great British Journeys

Great British Journeys (2007)

EndedDocumentary showNature, Travel, History

In this fascinating series, Nick Crane investigates eight epic and challenging journeys, following in the footsteps of our greatest indigenous explorers. From the 12th century to the 20th, from major cities to the wilds of the Hebrides, Nick pieces together how the map of Britain took shape. And, in the process, discovers something about who we are.

Network
Scheduleevery Tuesday at 20:00 (60 min)

Last Episode

HV Morton
Season 1Episode 860 min

HV Morton

HV Morton toured Scotland in the 1920 and 30s, driving a Bullnose Morris, from south to north and east to west. At the time, Scotland still had the feeling of wild unexplored lands – and the motor car the novelty of a new form of transport that could open such places up. Morton tried to capture this spirit with his writing, and in doing so struck a popular chord with the middle classes of his day. But there are layers beneath what initially appears an unashamedly picturesque meander through Scotland. For example, did Morton really believe the car was the ultimate mode of travel? What was he really looking for? Did he embellish his account at all? And how much has Scotland changed in the 70-odd years since? Who was HV Morton? The wonderfully-named Henry Canova Vollam Morton was born in Lancashire in 1892. At 17, he joined the paper his father edited: The Birmingham Gazette. This led to The Daily Express, where he made his name covering the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb. Despite his English birth, Morton’s Scottish mother had filled his childhood with tales of Bonnie Prince Charlie, William Wallace and Rob Roy. It was inevitable he’d leap at The Daily Express’s request for a series of articles on driving round Scotland. It led to two books: In Search of Scotland (1929) and In Scotland Again (1933). They are two of the earliest and best books from a 60-year career in travel writing, that also covered Europe, Africa and the Middle East. They’re escapist classics, a romantic blend of landscape, history and colourful characters, with nothing reserved about the style. If anything, Morton runs out superlatives too soon, but this weakness can also be a strength of great travel writing: it truly makes you wish you were there.
Oct 2, 2007

Recent Episodes

EpisodeNameAirdate
S01E08HV MortonOct 2, 2007
S01E07John LelandSep 25, 2007
S01E06Daniel DefoeSep 18, 2007
S01E05Gerald of WalesSep 11, 2007
S01E04William CobbettSep 4, 2007
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Frequently Asked Questions  Warning: Spoilers

When did Great British Journeys premiere?

Great British Journeys premiered on January 2, 2007.

Who was the host of Great British Journeys?

The show was hosted by Nicholas Crane.

What was the format of Great British Journeys?

Great British Journeys followed host Nicholas Crane as he explored the history and geography of the British Isles.

What locations were featured in the first season of Great British Journeys?

The first season featured journeys to Cornwall, Wales, London, Scotland, the Lake District, and the Pennines.

What was the main focus of the episode about Cornwall in Great British Journeys?

The Cornwall episode focused on the history of smuggling and the mining industry in the region.

In the episode about Wales in Great British Journeys, what aspects of Welsh history and culture were explored?

The Wales episode explored Welsh poetry, the slate industry, and the country's industrial heritage.

What landmarks did the episode about London in Great British Journeys showcase?

The London episode showcased landmarks such as the Thames River and the city's historical architecture.

How did the Scotland episode in Great British Journeys delve into the country's past?

The Scotland episode delved into the country's geological history, including its volcanic origins.

What was the focus of the Lake District episode in Great British Journeys?

The Lake District episode focused on the region's association with the Romantic poets, such as Wordsworth and Coleridge.

What historical events were highlighted in the episode about the Pennines in Great British Journeys?

The Pennines episode highlighted the Industrial Revolution and the impact it had on the region.

Who were the guest experts featured in Great British Journeys?

The show featured guest experts such as historians, geologists, and local residents who provided insights into the featured locations.

What was the reception of Great British Journeys by audiences and critics?

Great British Journeys was well-received for its informative and picturesque exploration of the British Isles.

Did Great British Journeys incorporate any interactive elements for viewers?

Yes, the show included interactive maps and additional online content for viewers to explore the locations further.

How did Great British Journeys contribute to the travel and exploration genre of television?

Great British Journeys provided a unique blend of history, geography, and storytelling, contributing to the genre's appeal to audiences.

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