Ep 1. Kennet and Avon

On the first episode of Great Canal Journeys, Timothy West and Prunella Scales embark on a journey along the Kennet and Avon Canal, which spans 87 miles across southern England. The couple, who are accomplished actors, set out on their narrowboat and discover the beauty and history of this waterway, which was first opened in 1810.

Timothy and Prunella are no strangers to canal travel and have been taking these journeys together for over 40 years. Their love of nature, history and adventure is evident as they make their way along the Kennet and Avon Canal, encountering stunning scenery, fascinating people, and charming villages along the way.

Their journey begins in Bath, where they board their narrowboat and set off along the Avon River. They traverse the historic aqueduct at Bradford-on-Avon and journey through the lush countryside, stopping off at the Caen Hill Locks, a breathtaking flight of 29 locks that lift boats 72 metres up the side of a hill.

In each episode, Timothy and Prunella reveal the history of the canal they are travelling along, and the Kennet and Avon Canal is no exception. They visit the Claverton Pumping Station, an impressive example of 19th-century engineering, which pumped water up to the canal from the River Avon. They learn about the toll houses along the canal, which were used to collect fees from passing boats, and investigate the dark history of the canal's involvement in the slave trade.

Along the way, they are joined by fellow canal enthusiasts, including historian Tom Rolt, who wrote the book that inspired the series, and Rory McGrath, a comedian and avid narrowboater. Their conversations are lively and engaging, offering insights into the joys and challenges of canal travel, and the wonder of the British waterways.

Despite encountering challenges such as a stuck lock and inclement weather, Timothy and Prunella persevere, handling the narrowboat with skill and grace. Along the way, they discover the pleasures of life on the water, from the simple pleasure of a cup of tea on deck to the camaraderie of other boaters they encounter.

The Kennet and Avon Canal is a beautiful and enchanting waterway, and Timothy and Prunella do it justice in this first episode of Great Canal Journeys. Their journey is a delight for lovers of history, nature, and adventure, and provides a glimpse into the joys of canal travel in the British Isles.