Michael Portillo’s enduring “Great British Railway Journeys” chugs along, this time venturing into the often-overlooked county of Essex. Armed with his trusty Bradshaw’s guide, Portillo begins this week’s first episode on the edges of London, at Loughton station, gateway to the ancient woodlands of Epping Forest. Monday’s installment, “Loughton to Audley End,” is a blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue.
From the forest’s sprawling trees to the preserved London Transport signal cabin in Epping, where Portillo gets a chance to play train conductor on a simulator, the episode unearths hidden gems in familiar territory. In Harlow, a planned town, Portillo visits the home and garden of the architect, Sir Frederick Gibberd, and learns about Gibberd’s plans for the new town, as well as his appreciation for art and sculpture in the garden.
The journey culminates at the grand Audley End, where a miniature railway and the house’s secret life as a wartime military school await. Tune in to BBC Two this Monday, April 28th at 6:30 PM GMT for “Loughton to Audley End.”
