Great Coastal Railway Journeys, 15 April 2024, BBC Two, “Cardigan Bay to Abergynolwyn”

In the latest episode of Great Coastal Railway Journeys, airing on BBC Two on Monday 15 April, Michael Portillo embarks on a railway journey around the rugged western coast of Wales travelling from “Cardigan Bay to Abergynolwyn.”

Beginning in Aberystwyth, Portillo takes the Victorian Cliff Railway up to the historic town, where he enjoys panoramic views over Cardigan Bay, home to Europe’s largest population of bottlenose dolphins.

On the beach at Borth, he uncovers a petrified forest, part of a lost realm that was mythologised in Wales during the Middle Ages. He then visits Machynlleth in Powys, where he explores the site of Wales’s medieval national parliament and learns about the charismatic hero who almost achieved Welsh independence from England in the early 15th century.

Portillo returns to the coast, finishing this leg of his journey in the seaside resort of Tywyn, where he rides aboard the Talyllyn Railway, the world’s first preserved heritage railway. He travels from Tywyn to Abergynolwyn, soaking in the glorious scenery of Southern Snowdonia.

This episode offers a fascinating exploration of Welsh history, combining natural wonders with insights into the country’s political past. It promises to be an engaging and informative watch, providing a unique perspective on Wales’ rich cultural heritage.

Great Coastal Railway Journeys airs on BBC Two at 6:30 pm on Monday, 15 April 2024.