Watch Len and Ainsley's Big Food Adventure

Len and Ainsley's Big Food Adventure is a television series that aired on BBC One in 2015 and 2016, directed by Ludo Graham and produced by Lion Television. The show follows two of the UK's most beloved food personalities, Len Goodman and Ainsley Harriott, as they embark on a culinary journey across the United Kingdom and beyond.

The show's format is simple: each episode features Len and Ainsley visiting a new location, meeting local chefs and home cooks, and learning about the unique dishes and ingredients that define each region's culinary traditions. Along the way, they sample a wide range of dishes, from classic comfort foods to modern fusion creations, and offer their commentary and reflections on the food they encounter.

What sets Len and Ainsley's Big Food Adventure apart from other food travel shows is the chemistry between the hosts. Len Goodman, a celebrated ballroom dancer and judge on the popular reality show Strictly Come Dancing, is known for his jovial personality and infectious charm. Ainsley Harriott, a well-known chef and television presenter, is equally charismatic and brings his signature blend of humor and enthusiasm to every episode. Together, they make for a dynamic duo that is both entertaining and informative.

The show's first season takes the hosts to locations across the UK, including Cornwall, Yorkshire, and Belfast. In each episode, they explore the local food culture, meet with chefs and home cooks, and try their hand at cooking local dishes themselves. Along the way, they encounter many unique ingredients and traditions, such as the use of clotted cream in Cornish cuisine, or the popularity of black pudding in northern England.

As the series progresses, the hosts venture further afield, visiting destinations such as Malta and Georgia. These international episodes provide a fascinating glimpse into other cultures and cuisines, and showcase how food can serve as a universal language that brings people together.

One of the strengths of Len and Ainsley's Big Food Adventure is the way it balances entertainment and education. While the hosts are clearly having a great time, and their banter and antics are often very funny, they never lose sight of the importance of exploring and understanding different food cultures. The show manages to be both lighthearted and informative, offering viewers a satisfying mix of entertainment and insight.

Another key aspect of the show is its emphasis on home cooking. While Len and Ainsley visit some of the UK's top restaurants and sample high-end cuisine, they also spend time with everyday people who are passionate about food and cooking. Whether it's a home cook in Yorkshire who makes her own sausages, or a Maltese family who takes pride in their traditional rabbit stew, the show celebrates the importance of home cooking and the role it plays in preserving food traditions.

Overall, Len and Ainsley's Big Food Adventure is a delightful and engaging show that celebrates the diversity and richness of world cuisine. With its likeable hosts, stunning cinematography, and mouthwatering food, it's a must-watch for anyone who loves to eat, cook, or travel.

Len and Ainsley's Big Food Adventure is a series that ran for 1 seasons (10 episodes) between November 16, 2015 and on FilmRise