Martin Compston’s Norwegian Fling Premieres Friday 23 February on BBC Two

In the much-anticipated premiere of the new six-part series, “Martin Compston’s Norwegian Fling,” actor Martin Compston and his friend and co-presenter Phil MacHugh embark on an immersive journey through Norway. Over the course of almost 2,000 miles, they explore Scotland’s neighbouring Scandinavian country to uncover both its unique characteristics and shared traits with their homeland.

The inaugural episode centres around Oslo, Norway’s vibrant capital city. Here, Martin and Phil fully embrace the Nordic way of life as they set out to discover what sets Norway apart. Their first stop takes them to Holmenkollen, a renowned center for skiing excellence. Despite a lack of snow, they soon learn that Norwegians refuse to let anything dampen their love for skiing. The duo participates in a crash course in roller-skiing alongside Olympic gold medalist cross-country skier Ragnhild Gløersen Haga and champion roller skier Ragnar Bragvin Andresen. To top off their adrenaline-fueled day at Holmenkollen, they bravely take on the world-famous ski jump via an epic zip line experience.

Continuing their exploration of Norwegian culture and society, Martin and Phil meet Maren Grøthe—the youngest member of Norway’s parliament—at The Storting. This encounter serves as a bridge between Scottish-Norwegian relations while offering insights into the country’s political landscape.

Afterwards, the pair retreats from urban life to immerse themselves in the tranquility of Norwegian cabin living in rural areas. Along the way, they make a pit stop at Vinmonopolet—a government-owned store responsible for selling alcoholic beverages—to purchase drinks for their evening respite. This excursion enlightens them about Norway’s notoriously high cost of living.

With their remote cabin serving as a temporary refuge amidst nature’s splendor, Martin and Phil reflect on the extensive journey still ahead—a challenge that Martin hopes to soundtrack with his beloved Scottish dance music.

“Martin Compston’s Norwegian Fling,” a co-commission by BBC Scotland and BBC Factual, is produced by Tern at Zinc Media. Viewers can catch the premiere episode on Friday, 23 February 2024, at 9:00 pm on BBC Two.

Image Credit: Martin Compston and Phil MacHugh checking out the Norwegian scenery. BBC Scotland/Tern TV