Ep 5. Sweden Part 2

In the fifth episode of the third season of Great Canal Journeys, Timothy West and Prunella Scales continue their adventure through Sweden. This is the second part of their journey, and they embark on a new stretch of the Göta Canal, Sweden's largest engineering feat, which stretches for 190 km across the country.

As the journey begins, Timothy and Prunella board their narrowboat, which is a beautifully preserved wooden vessel from the 19th century. This time, they traverse the canal from the town of Söderköping to the eastern coast of Sweden. Along the way, they discover beautiful landscapes and quaint towns, learning about the local history and culture.

Throughout the journey, they are assisted by local guides who provide fascinating insights into the history and geography of the area, as well as the canal's engineering and construction. One of the highlights of this segment is the picturesque Berg Locks, the largest lock in Sweden, with a drop of 18.8 meters.

As they continue their journey, Timothy and Prunella explore the ancient town of Söderköping, where they learn about 12th-century Sweden and the role of the town in the country's history. They also visit the Rök Runestone, one of the world's most famous runestones, where they uncover the history of the Vikings and their influence on Swedish culture.

The episode also includes a visit to Mantorp, a charming town known for its equestrian history and famous horse races. Timothy and Prunella explore the local racecourse and mingle with the locals, experiencing the Swedish love of horses and the passion for this long-standing tradition.

The journey also takes them through picturesque landscapes, including beautiful forests, open waterways, and serene canalsides. Throughout their journey, they are also privy to the cultural diversity of Sweden's towns and villages.

As the journey winds to a close, Timothy and Prunella arrive in Södertälje, a bustling city known for its commercial activity. Here, they discover the city's history and culture. They also learn about the famous Tom Tits Experiment, a science-themed park that promotes science learning and exploration, and visit the Chinese Pagoda, a symbol of the city's growing cultural diversity.

Overall, this episode of Great Canal Journeys is a fascinating exploration of Sweden's landscape, culture, and traditions. It provides a fresh perspective on the country through the eyes of two world-renowned actors and highlights the country's rich history, natural beauty, and cultural legacy.