Britain's Best Canals

Watch Britain's Best Canals

  • 2015
  • 2 Seasons

Britain's Best Canals from Total Content Digital stars the popular presenter and journalist, John Sergeant, as he embarks on a journey through the beautiful and historic canals of Britain. The show explores the rich history of these waterways, focusing on the incredible engineering feats that were required to create them, and the role they played in shaping Britain's industrial landscape.

Throughout the series, John Sergeant travels across the length and breadth of the country, visiting some of the most important and picturesque canals and waterways. From the stunning limestone cliffs of the Grand Union Canal, to the iconic Huddersfield Narrow Canal, each episode is packed with fascinating insights and stunning visuals that bring these historic waterways to life.

One of the standout features of the show is the way it seamlessly blends history, engineering and natural beauty. Throughout the series, viewers are treated to stunning aerial photography and close-up shots of the intricate mechanics of the canals, along with fascinating interviews with historians and canal enthusiasts who have a deep knowledge and passion for these waterways.

Another standout aspect of the show is John Sergeant's engaging and affable presenting style. A natural storyteller, he brings the history of the canals to life with ease, and his infectious enthusiasm for the subject is evident in every frame. Whether he's exploring the stunning locks of the Grand Union, or cruising along the tranquil waters of the Trent and Mersey, John Sergeant is the perfect guide to Britain's best canals.

Over the course of the series, viewers are treated to a wide range of fascinating and memorable moments. One episode sees John Sergeant exploring the breathtaking Llangollen Canal in North Wales, as he visits the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct – the longest and highest aqueduct in Britain. Another episode sees him exploring the stunning Crinan Canal in western Scotland, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lochs.

As well as exploring the historic canals themselves, the show also shines a light on the people who have made them their home. From the live-aboards who call the canals their home, to the volunteers who work tirelessly to preserve and maintain them, Britain's Best Canals offers a unique and intimate insight into the world of canal living.

Ultimately, what sets Britain's Best Canals apart is its ability to blend history, engineering, natural beauty and human interest into one seamless and fascinating package. John Sergeant is the perfect presenter to guide viewers through this world of waterways, and each episode is packed with unforgettable moments that are sure to delight and inspire viewers of all ages. Whether you're a canal enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates great storytelling, Britain's Best Canals is a must-watch show.

Britain's Best Canals is a series that is currently running and has 2 seasons (14 episodes). The series first aired on February 13, 2015.

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Seasons
Regent's Canal
6. Regent's Canal
June 22, 2016
The Regent's Canal runs through the heart of London linking the docks with the rest of Britain. John navigates the history filled route, finding the East End's haunted Ragged School, and making and sampling a bottle or two of Mother's Ruin along the way. The veteran broadcaster even finds time to stop off to feed the giraffes at London Zoo. Last in the series.
Oxford Canal
5. Oxford Canal
May 20, 2016
John is barging his way along the Oxford Canal, which meanders through the heart of the gentle English countryside until it reaches the River Thames in Oxford.
Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal
4. Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal
May 13, 2016
John travels down the Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal, one of the oldest and prettiest canals in Britain, setting off from Wolverhampton in the West Midlands down to the River Severn.
Lancaster Canal
3. Lancaster Canal
May 6, 2016
The broadcaster takes in the delights of the Lancaster Canal, setting out from Tewitfield. As he meanders down the waterway, John cannot resist visiting Carnforth railway station, where he re-enacts his favourite scene from the classic film Brief Encounter, some of which was filmed there.
Rochdale Canal
2. Rochdale Canal
April 29, 2016
The broadcaster leaves central Manchester, heading east along the Rochdale Canal. Not long into his journey, John finds himself struggling to contend with 19th-century technology at a cotton works. Further up the canal, he helps out members of an conservation group clearing the waterway of dumped supermarket trollies.
Peak Forest Canal
1. Peak Forest Canal
April 22, 2016
The series starts with John navigating the Peak Forest Canal, which runs through stunning countryside from Buxworth in Derbyshire to Ashton-under-Lyne.
Description
Where to Watch Britain's Best Canals
Britain's Best Canals is available for streaming on the Total Content Digital website, both individual episodes and full seasons. You can also watch Britain's Best Canals on demand at Amazon.
  • Premiere Date
    February 13, 2015