Watch Full Steam Ahead: Victorian Railways

Full Steam Ahead: Victorian Railways is a captivating and informative documentary series that explores the history of railways in Britain during the Victorian era, from their inception in 1830 to their heyday in the late 19th century. Produced by British broadcaster BBC and distributed by Acorn Media, the show comprises six one-hour episodes that take viewers on a journey through time to discover the social, economic, and technological impact of the railways on Victorian society.

The show is hosted by two presenters, Ruth Goodman and Peter Ginn, who are known for their work on other BBC historical shows such as Tales from the Green Valley and Victorian Farm. Together, they take on the roles of railway workers and enthusiasts, immersing themselves in the culture and practices of the Victorian era to portray an authentic picture of life at the time. Their engaging and enthusiastic approach makes the show accessible and entertaining for viewers of all ages.

Each episode of Full Steam Ahead focuses on a different aspect of railways in Victorian Britain, from the construction of the pioneering Liverpool to Manchester line to the impact of railways on the lives of rural communities. Through interviews with experts and archival footage, the show provides a comprehensive overview of the challenges faced by the engineers and workers who built and operated the railways, as well as the social and economic changes that resulted from their construction.

One of the main themes of the show is the role of the railways in transforming Britain into an industrial superpower. At the start of the Victorian era, Britain was primarily an agricultural society, with most people living in rural areas and working on farms. However, the introduction of railways enabled the rapid transportation of raw materials and goods across the country, facilitating the growth of new industries and mass production. This allowed Britain to become a global leader in manufacturing and trade, laying the foundations for the modern economy.

Full Steam Ahead also explores the impact of railways on Victorian society more broadly. The construction of railways led to the development of new towns and cities, as well as increased mobility and social mobility. The show examines the experiences of people from different social classes, including railway workers, factory owners, and passengers, to provide a nuanced view of the effects of railways on Victorian society. In addition, the show looks at the impact of railways on leisure and tourism, with the emergence of seaside resorts and the growth of domestic travel.

Throughout the series, viewers are treated to some stunning visual effects that add depth to the story. For example, we see how the first locomotives were made and hear how the noise of the engines sparked anxieties and joyful excitement in equal measure in the people who first saw them. Another example is the depiction of the brutal working conditions and the heroism and dangers involved in running steam engines. In an especially compelling scene, we see how the construction of a new tunnel almost went wrong, resulting in the dramatic rescue of trapped workers.

Overall, Full Steam Ahead: Victorian Railways is a must-watch for anyone interested in British social and industrial history. The presenters’ enthusiasm for the subject and the high production values make this one of Acorn Media’s most engaging historical documentaries. The series provides a fascinating insight into the social and economic changes that occurred during the Victorian era, and the lasting impact of steam railways on British society. This is a show that will entertain and educate viewers in equal measure, leaving them with a newfound appreciation for one of the most transformative events in British history.

Full Steam Ahead: Victorian Railways is a series that ran for 1 seasons (5 episodes) between July 27, 2016 and on Acorn Media