The travel series Great Coastal Railway Journeys returns with presenter Michael Portillo embarking on a journey along the picturesque coastline of north Wales. In this episode, titled “Harlech to Aberdaron,” airing on BBC Two on Tuesday 16 April, Portillo continues his exploration of the region, this time tracking the coast north from Harlech to the tip of the Llyn Peninsula.
The journey begins on the shifting sands of Morfa Harlech, one of Wales’ most significant dune systems. Here, Portillo encounters a team of conservationists engaged in the unexpected task of felling and removing trees. From there, he travels to Porthmadog, once a bustling slate port that played a crucial role in exporting slate to far-flung destinations like South Africa and Australia.
As Portillo moves northward, he reaches Pwllheli, situated at the top of Cardigan Bay. Here, he lends a hand on deck with the South Caernarvonshire Yacht Club, experiencing the thrill of sailing on a classic wooden racing boat. Continuing his journey, he approaches the Llyn Peninsula’s tip, arriving in Aberdaron. Here, he discovers the former church of renowned Welsh poet and vicar RS Thomas, St. Hywyn’s, which overlooks the picturesque Aberdaron Bay.
Great Coastal Railway Journeys airs on BBC Two at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday 16 April 2024.
