Great Canal Journeys

Overview
Timothy West and Prunella Scales celebrate 50 years of marriage by setting off on four breathtaking canal adventures. Kicking off their journey, the couple returns to the Kennet and Avon Canal in the West Country, a place filled with cherished memories. Previously, in 1990, they were honored as the first boat to traverse the fully restored canal in 42 years. Now, nearly 25 years later, they embark on a scenic 21-mile journey from Bath to Devizes, rekindling their love for both each other and the stunning waterways.
Episodes
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1

The Kennet and Avon
Tim and Pru embark on a journey down the 21-mile stretch of the Kennet and Avon canal, making their way from Bath to Devizes. As they navigate the sce...
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2

The Rochdale
Prunella and Tim journey along the Rochdale canal, where they pass remnants of grand old mills, take in the stunning landscapes of the Pennines, and n...
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3
The Llangollen Canal
On this third adventure along the canal, Pru and Tim return to Llangollen in North Wales, the enchanting spot where they spent their honeymoon.
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4

Canal Du Nivernais, France
In the final leg of their canal adventure, Tim and Pru travel to the Burgundy region of France to explore the Canal du Nivernais. This stunning waterw...
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1

Kerala, India
Tim and Pru embark on an adventure through the stunning backwaters of Kerala, immersing themselves in the vibrant local culture. They indulge in the r...
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2

Brahmaputra, India
Tim and Pru embark on an adventure to the seldom-explored Brahmaputra River in northern India. Along their journey, they encounter a community of monk...
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1

Norfolk Broads
Tim and Pru venture along one of Britain's historic and scenic waterways, immersing themselves in the local culture. They uncover the region's distinc...
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2

Marne–Rhine Canal
Tim and Pru embark on an adventure through the magical landscapes of Alsace and Lorraine in France, journeying through enchanted woodlands, whimsical ...
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3

Rio Douro, Portugal
Tim and Pru embark on an adventure through the stunning scenery of north-west Portugal, exploring its steep valleys, hillside vineyards, and savoring ...
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4

Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal
Tim and Pru explore the stunning Welsh canal, making their way to a castle known for its ghostly legends along the journey.
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1

The River Nile
Tim and Pru embark on an adventure along the majestic River Nile, making their way from Luxor to Aswan. Along their journey, they visit a charming Nub...
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2

North Italy
Tim and Pru navigate across Italy's biggest lake and make their way along the continent's oldest functioning canal towards Milan. Their adventure feat...
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3

Manchester
Tim and Pru set off on an adventure through the rich history of canals, journeying along the waterways of north west England. Their travels take them ...
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4

Argentina
Tim and Pru embark on a boat journey through the lush Argentine jungle. They enjoy gin and tonics with a few isolated Anglo Argentines, marvel at the ...
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5

Lancaster Canal
Tim and Pru journey along the historic Lancaster Canal, one of the early wonders of the waterways. Their adventure takes them up the scenic coast of M...
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6

Rideau Canal, Canada
Tim and Pru set off on an incredible adventure along the Rideau Canal in Canada, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Their journey takes them through the se...
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1

Asian Odyssey (Part One)
The adventurous 'ancient mariners' embark on one final distant journey to Southeast Asia, navigating the scenic rivers of Vietnam. Their expedition ta...
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2

Asian Odyssey (Part Two)
Timothy and Pru finish their extensive journey through the waterways of Southeast Asia, exploring Vietnam's Mekong Delta and visiting the iconic Angko...
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1

London's Waterways (Part 1)
Sheila and Gyles, new to boating, set off on their adventure through London's waterways, beginning at the serene upper stretches of the River Thames. ...
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2

London's Waterways (Part 2)
Wrapping up their exploration of London’s waterways, Sheila and Gyles navigate the Lee Navigation, face their first manual lock, and maneuver throug...
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1

Staffordshire's Waterways (Part 1)
Sheila and Gyles set off on their journey through Staffordshire's waterways, exploring the Caldon and Trent and Mersey Canals as they undertake a pilg...
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2

Staffordshire's Waterways (Part 2)
Wrapping up their exploration of Staffordshire's waterways, Sheila and Gyles embark on a journey aboard a traditional working boat. They delve into th...
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1

Cambridgeshire Fens
Sheila Hancock and Gyles Brandreth return to the barge to journey through the Cambridgeshire Fens. Their adventure takes them to the vicarage where a ...
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2

West Lancashire Coastal Plain
Sheila and Gyles embark on a boating journey from Wigan to Liverpool, navigating the scenic West Lancashire Coastal Plain. While in Wigan, Gyles steps...
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3

Grand Union and Stratford Canal
Sheila and Gyles head to Stratford-upon-Avon, a place significant to both of them. Sheila takes to the stage at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, showcas...
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4

Peak Forest Canal
Sheila and Gyles embark on a charming journey along the picturesque Peak Forest Canal, heading towards Manchester. While there, they try their hand at...