Great British Railway Journeys (2010)

Episode Overview

Armed with his Edwardian railway guide, Michael Portillo embarks on the final segment of his journey from Hull to Caernarfon. Amidst the stunning landscapes of Snowdonia, he takes on the world’s fastest zip line, soaring 1,500 feet over a massive slate quarry. He delves into a historical conflict between the quarry workers and Lord Penrhyn, the pit's owner, which caused deep divisions in the early 1900s. Traveling along North Wales's beautiful heritage railways, Michael stops at Pen y Gwryd, the birthplace of British mountaineering, and learns about the journalist and poet who inspired a climbing community, including those who would later summit Everest. He also visits Criccieth to meet the grandson of his political idol, David Lloyd George.