Rent Byways of British Steam (2016)
2.0 of 5 from 2 ratings
4h 11min
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- Synopsis:
The late 1950's and early 60's may well be considered the climax of British Railways's steam operation.
English Heartlands
Although the Heart of England beats to the roar of industry, its romance still appeals to the human soul. And nothing touches the soul in quite the same way as that most human of machines - the steam locomotive. In this programme we trace a variety of the little 'Byways of Steam' including the valley of the River Severn, rural Staffordshire on the River Churnett, the edge of the Cotswolds, in deepest Leicestershire and through the Nene Valley.
Valleys and MountainsThe valleys and mountains of the British Isles hold a special place in the hearts of its people. Both Scotland and Wales have more than their fair share of breathtaking views and glorious scenery, into which railway 'Byways of Steam' fit effortlessly. In this programme we follow lines over Rannoch Moor, along the banks of the River Forth, up Snowdon, into the slate quarries of Gwynedd and along the River Dee amongst many others.
Southern England
From Land's End to the white cliffs of Dover and up into the Fens, the landscape of Southern England has many rural retreats that have been served by railway lines with enduring links to their local communities. We follow charming little tank engines from famous companies such as the GWR, the SR and the GER in timeless locations, including the banks of the River Dart, the orchards of rural Kent and the sand dunes of the North Norfolk Coast.
West Coast
All along the route of the United Kingdom's 'Premier Line' - the West Coast Main Line - are to be found numerous small 'Byways of Steam', the local railways built to serve the country's small villages and hamlets. Here you will see little tank engines - and glamorous named engines too - in many locations including the Lake District, Shakespeare Country and in the cotton towns of the Red Rose county.
Stephenson's Country
Railway history and George Stephenson are intertwined. The legendary engineer almost single-handedly created the country we know today, through his vision which saw steam locomotives and railways crossing the lands, serving small rural communities as well as the industrial power bases that gave rise to 'Great' Britain. In this programme we see many of those little railways, the 'Byways of Steam', which George and his son Robert helped create, and which have carried people and goods to outposts of the North Yorkshire Moors, the Dales, on Tyneside and in Bronte Country - and many more.- Producers:
- Bill Lucas
- Studio:
- Demand DVD
- Genres:
- Children & Family, Documentary, Special Interest
