Michael Portillo’s exploration of the Weald continues this Tuesday on “Great British Railway Journeys.” Departing from Tonbridge, Portillo embarks on another leg of his rail adventure through this historic wooded region of southeast England. This episode features a blend of culinary curiosities, artistic wonders, and railway restoration projects.
Near Hildenborough, Portillo visits local hazelnut orchards and learns about the cultivation of Kentish cobnuts, even lending a hand in the cracking and roasting process. At All Saints’ Church in Tudeley, he discovers the tragic story behind the church’s magnificent stained-glass windows, designed by the renowned artist Marc Chagall.
Portillo concludes his journey in Robertsbridge, where he explores the ambitious Rother Valley Railway project, which aims to establish a new railway connection between the Kent and East Sussex Heritage Railway and the main line. He even gets a chance to operate the project’s lovingly restored turntable. “Great British Railway Journeys” airs Tuesday, April 8 at 6:30 PM on BBC Two.
