Watch Britain's Best Canals with John Sergeant
- 2015
- 2 Seasons
Britain's Best Canals with John Sergeant from ITV is a delightful journey across the canals of Britain, as seen through the eyes of veteran journalist and broadcaster John Sergeant. The show takes viewers on an enchanting ride through some of the most stunning, unique and historic canals that crisscross the country, exploring the rich history, culture and beauty of these iconic waterways.
From the grand waterways of the Industrial Revolution to hidden gems that are off the beaten track, the show offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of canals and their enduring appeal. The series comprises four episodes that are, in essence, love letters to Britain's canals. Each episode focuses on a different area of the country, showing the canals in their full splendour and the unique features that make them stand out.
Sergeant's deep baritone voice, infectious sense of humour and engaging personality make him the perfect guide for this journey; he is clearly passionate about the canals, their history, and their role in modern-day Britain. He brings his journalistic skills to the fore, peppering the show with fascinating facts about the canals, the people who built them, and the communities that have grown up around them.
In the first episode, we join Sergeant on a journey through the canals of Birmingham, Wolverhampton and the Black Country. These waterways played a crucial role in powering the Industrial Revolution and transformed Britain's economy, making it one of the world's superpowers. We see the restored and repurposed canal-side buildings that now house trendy bars, offices and artist studios, as well as the traditional industries that still rely on these waterways, such as steelworks, cement factories and coal mines.
The second episode takes us on a voyage through the iconic canals of London. From the Regent's Canal and the Grand Union Canal to the Limehouse Cut and the River Lee, London's canal network offers a fascinating perspective on one of the world's great cities. Sergeant takes us to some of London's most popular and picturesque waterways, such as Little Venice, Camden and Paddington, as well as hidden gems such as the Tottenham Lock and the Bow Back Rivers.
The third episode showcases the stunning canals of Scotland. From the Forth and Clyde Canal to the Caledonian Canal, these waterways offer a unique glimpse into Scotland's history, culture and natural beauty. We see some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the country, including the famous Loch Ness, as well as the modern-day industries that have grown up around the canals, such as whisky distilleries and hydroelectric power stations.
The fourth and final episode takes us on a journey through the canals of the West Country, including the Kennet and Avon Canal and the Bridgewater Canal. The serene beauty of these waterways is a stark contrast to the industrial canals of the Midlands and the urban canals of London. The episode offers a glimpse into the rural charm of the West Country, showcasing quaint villages, rolling hills, and grand estates.
Throughout the series, Sergeant interviews a fascinating array of guests, including canal enthusiasts, historians, engineers, and local residents. These interviews provide unique insights into the history, culture and significance of the canals and how they have evolved over the centuries. The show also features stunning aerial footage, allowing viewers to fully appreciate the beauty and majesty of Britain's canal network.
In summary, Britain's Best Canals with John Sergeant from ITV is a captivating show that celebrates one of the most remarkable features of modern-day Britain. The show offers a unique perspective on the country, showcasing its history, culture, and natural beauty through the lens of its canals. John Sergeant is the perfect guide for this journey, and his passion and knowledge shine through in every episode.