In the latest episode of Great Coastal Railway Journeys, airing on Friday 12 April on BBC Two, Michael Portillo takes viewers on a journey to the Isles of Scilly, an archipelago off the coast of Cornwall.
Portillo begins his adventure at Penzance railway station, from where he makes his way to the town’s heliport for a helicopter ride to the island of Tresco. With a population of 150, Tresco is known for its rich history and stunning natural scenery.
On Tresco, Portillo meets a former councillor who offers insights into the unique way of life on the islands. He also ventures to the north of the island with an archaeologist, uncovering the area’s rich prehistoric secrets.
Back on Tresco, Portillo finds the islanders preparing for an important weekly event—gig racing, a beloved summer tradition.
Great Coastal Railway Journeys airs on BBC Two at 6:30 PM on Friday, 12 April 2024.
