Travels by Narrowboat season 4 episode 3 titled "Run Of The Mill" is all about exploring different aspects of the culture and history of narrowboat travel. The episode dives into the history of narrowboat mills and their significance in the transportation of goods along British canals. The show takes its viewers on a journey along the Trent and Mersey canal, visiting various mills along the way.
The episode begins with the show's hosts, captain David and his crewmate, Valerie, setting off on their narrowboat adventure from a mooring site in Stoke-on-Trent. They start by exploring the Caldon Canal, which is a branch of the Trent and Mersey canal, and learn how the canal was initially built to transport coal and iron. Along the way, they pass by Trentham mill, which was burnt down in a fire in the early 20th century but has since been restored to its old glory.
As their journey continues, they arrive at the Etruria Industrial Museum, which houses the last operational steam-run mill engine in the country. Here, David and Valerie get to know more about the textile industry and how mills were used to produce fabrics. The episode also showcases how the mills powered the machinery, how steam engines were adapted for textile production, and how silk looms were used in the making of high-end fabrics.
Soon, the narrowboat enters the narrow and winding locks of the Harecastle tunnel, which is one of Britain's most extended canal tunnels. As they approach the other end of the tunnel, the visuals of the landscape gradually change, and David and Valerie get to see the picturesque town of Kidsgrove and the impressive Victorian mills that helped create the town's industrial past.
The episode also features a visit to the Middleport pottery factory, which produces fine bone china, using traditional methods dating back to the 1800s. David and Valerie learn how the narrowboats used to transport the finished ceramics to the markets and how Middleport is still an important pottery center in modern times.
As the narrowboat approaches the end of their journey, they arrive at the Anderton boat lift, which is an impressive engineering feat, designed to lift boats up 50 feet from the River Weaver to the Trent and Mersey canal. The lift is an excellent example of the industrial past in Britain and is now a tourist attraction.
In conclusion, the Travels by Narrowboat season 4 episode 3 titled "Run Of The Mill" offers an exciting insight into the history of narrowboat mills and takes the viewers on a journey that is informative and entertaining. The episode also highlights the importance of preservation projects in maintaining Britain's industrial heritage that may otherwise have faded away. Overall, it's a must-watch for those interested in narrowboat travel, industrial history, and British culture.
-
Channel
-
First AiredJuly 14, 2018
-
Runtime35 min
-
LanguageEnglish
- Watch Unlimited Prime Video TV Shows
- Anytime, Anywhere
- Ad-free Videos