The self-governing Isle of Man is the starting point for Michael Portillo's latest railway adventure. Michael is in his element as it is a paradise for rail lovers.
Michael Portillo leaves the Isle of Man and crosses the Irish Sea, bound for the mighty port of Liverpool and its historic waterfront. He later heads off to Blackpool, where he learns about the city's wartime experiences.
Michael Portillo's rail journey continues. He learns to make potted shrimp at Morecambe Bay, helps clip the topiaries at Levens Hall and visits Cartmel's 12th-century priory.
Michael's journey propels him in search of the unknown universe in Boulby, North Yorkshire, as he joins the hunt for dark matter in the deepest mine in Britain.
Michael Portillo is in the seaside resort of Scarborough to explore the former medieval royal fortress situated on a rocky promontory overlooking the North Sea.
The pretty seaside resort of Hornsea, famous for its distinctive pottery, is the starting point for this leg of Michael Portillo's latest journey. He then travels to Spurn Point, where he learns about a life-saving 19th-century invention.
Michael Portillo embarks on a new railway journey. From Northern Ireland's spectacular Causeway Coast, he will travel along the north and east coasts of Ireland through the provinces of Ulster and Leinster.
The start of a new railway journey. Michael Portillo will travel across the southern coast of England, beginning in Dorset. He takes to the water in Portland Harbour and learns more of the Tolpuddle Martyrs.
Michael Portillo visit Dorset's internationally renowned Jurassic Coast. He passes through Swanage, Poole and Sandbanks before ending his journey on Brownsea Island
Michael Portillo travels from Southampton to the Isle of Wight, a place that holds special memories of family holidays there as a child. He rides the island's railway, made up of recycled London Underground trains.
On this part of his journey, Michael helps out at a coastguard training centre, visits the harbour master at the great maritime city of Portsmouth and learns about conservation projects in Chichester.
