Tag: Iain Robertson Rambles

UK TV programmes to watch this week : 21/01/2023

Michael McIntyre’s Big Show (BBC 1/HD | 6:50pm to 7:50pm | Saturday 21st January 2023)

The comedian hosts an evening of entertainment, recorded in front of an audience at the London Palladium. Alison Hammond bravely hands over her phone to play Send to All, footballing legend Peter Crouch is rudely awakened for a very special Midnight Gameshow in Portugal, and George Ezra performs his latest hit single Sweetest Human Being Alive. Plus, a special performance from the Unexpected Star of the Show.

Call the Midwife (BBC 1/HD | 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Sunday 22nd January 2023)

The maternity home is thrown into chaos by an outbreak of gastroenteritis. The team dig deep to ensure all mothers and newborn babies recover. However, the Board of Health are less than happy with the way things have been handled. Nurse Crane fights to save her career when her age is called into question by the Consultant running a training course, and Cyril encourages Reggie to seek help with his declining health.

Motorhoming with Merton & Webster (Channel 5/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Sunday 22nd January 2023)

Devon. Series 2, episode 4. Paul Merton and Suki Webster explore Devon, beginning by heading to Dartmoor national park to meet a local guide for a Sherlock Holmes-themed tour, as It was in the national park that Arthur Conan Doyle was inspired to write The Hound of the Baskervilles. Paul and Suki also meet Kate and Norman, who are part of the Wheeled Access group, which encourages anyone with a disability to get out and enjoy the area.

Hornby: A Model World (Yesterday | 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Monday 23rd January 2023)

Starter Set. Series 2, episode 2. Young designer Prad has just 30 days to reinvent the model railway starter kit, and musician Jools Holland reveals his incredible 45ft layout hidden away in his loft.

Silent Witness (BBC 1/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Monday 23rd January 2023)

Hearts of Darkness (Part 1/2). The team are called to a devastating train crash, and work with the police and counter terrorism to piece together what happened. As they try to find the motive for killing the local mayor, it appears the family who own the land might very well hold the key. Meanwhile, Jack’s family life gets more complicated.

Waterloo Road (BBC 1/HD | 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Wednesday 24th January 2023)

Amy’s drama workshop faces the full force of Kelly Jo’s antics but when the workshop facilitator is someone from her past old anxieties arise. Neil forges an unlikely friendship with Donte over personal experiences but Neil resists when Joe encourages them to attend a support group together.

Silent Witness (BBC 1/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Wednesday 24th January 2023)

Hearts of Darkness (Part 2/2). The Lyell return to the tunnel as another victim is in danger. Family ties are tested when dark secrets are revealed and Jack is put in a difficult position when a blast from the past comes to visit.

Iain Robertson Rambles (BBC Scotland/HD & BBC iPlayer only | 8:30pm to 9:00pm | Thursday 26th January 2023) ** PICK OF THE WEEK **

Embarking on the last leg of his 200 mile challenge, Iain and his dog Molly head off from Clisham Hill on Harris. On his way to Stornoway, Iain is in good spirits as he is joined by fellow actor and friend Kevin McKidd and at Lewes Castle they are delighted to be shown the Lewis chessmen by archivist Shona MacDonald. Ian also hooks up with Two Doors Down star Alex Norton to visit the Callanish standing stones.

Death in Paradise (BBC 1/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Friday 27th January 2023)

Stumped in Murder. Series 2, episode 4. In Saint Barnabas, Naomi attends the wedding of her best friend Monique. However, the jollity of the day comes to an abrupt halt when Rex, the estranged husband of Monique’s mother Odette, is fatally stabbed. Knowing the case requires full investigation, Naomi calls the team for help. Meanwhile, Marlon tries to prepare for his sergeant exams but is easily distracted. Ralf Little, Don Warrington and Shantol Jackson star.

All TV guide information taken from DigiGuide — www.getdigiguide.tv/?p=1&r=15119.

UK TV programmes to watch this week : 14/01/2023

Michael McIntyre’s Big Show (BBC 1/HD | 6:50pm to 7:50pm | Saturday 14th January 2023) ** NEW SERIES **

The lively comedian hosts an evening of entertainment, recorded in front of an audience at the London Palladium. Rylan bravely hand over his phone in Send to All, Joel Corry and Tom Grennan perform their smash hit Lionheart (Fearless), an unsuspecting Antiques Roadshow fan gets the biggest surprise of their life and there is a special performance from the Unexpected Star of the Show.

Call the Midwife (BBC 1/HD | 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Sunday 15th January 2023)

As a health visitor, Sister Veronica calls on a single mother who is celebrating her recent marriage, only to discover a terrible truth about the seemingly happy relationship. Nancy asks for additional shifts so she can afford more presents for Colette, but comes to realise her spending is getting out of hand. Trixie enrols on a cookery course, and a family secret comes to light when a patient’s baby develops a life-threatening condition.

Motorhoming with Merton & Webster (Channel 5/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Sunday 15th January 2023)

New Forest. Series 2, episode 3. Paul Merton and Suki Webster explore the New Forest, encountering `commoners” Tess and Ollie, who have earned the right for their ponies to roam freely in the area. With the help of farrier Ben, Suki learns how to remove a horseshoe and takes home her own bit of luck, and the couple visit hives in Hythe for a spot of beekeeping.

Hornby: A Model World (Yesterday | 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Monday 16th January 2023) ** NEW SERIES **

The iconic Locomotive Flying Scotsman is scaled down 120 times from real life, rendering some features almost invisible to the naked eye, or too small to even mould.

Silent Witness (BBC 1/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Monday 16th January 2023)

Star (Part 1/2). The Lyell team are thrown into the dark side of social media where nothing is as it seems and the perfect profiles of the influencers they are investigating raise disturbing questions. As a heavily pregnant DI asks the team for their expertise, are they running out of time to solve this case?

Waterloo Road (BBC 1/HD | 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Wednesday 18th January 2023)

The Walters family find themselves in an unexpected crisis with nowhere to turn for help pushing a stressed Preston to the edge. Val uncovers a truth about Kai, causing problems for him and Danny and leaving Val with a big decision to make.

Silent Witness (BBC 1/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Wednesday 18th January 2023)

Star (Part 2/2). Nikki manages to get behind the mask of the lead suspect while Jack has a breakthrough at the festival site. A surprise event at the Lyell brings some hope.

Iain Robertson Rambles (BBC Scotland/HD & BBC iPlayer only | 8:30pm to 9:00pm | Thursday 19th January 2023) ** PICK OF THE WEEK **

With 100 miles of the route conquered, Iain is at the halfway point of his adventure and begins at Leverburgh on Harris. As he continues his journey, he takes a dip in the freezing cold waters at Luskentyre, which he finds to be a surprisingly invigorating experience, before taking a 44-mile boat trip west towards St Kilda.

Death in Paradise (BBC 1/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Friday 20th January 2023)

The Impossible Murder. The team investigates the murder of an estate agent, who has been killed ahead of the potential sale of local beauty spot St Agatha’s Cove. Marlon leads a counterfeit goods case to impress the Commissioner, while love in the air for Neville following an unexpected encounter. Ralf Little, Don Warrington and Ginny Holder star.

All TV guide information taken from DigiGuide — www.getdigiguide.tv/?p=1&r=15119.

UK TV programmes to watch this week : 07/01/2023

Call the Midwife (BBC 1/HD | 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Sunday 8th January 2023)

Lucille tries to distract herself from the trauma of her recent miscarriage and the racism she has endured by becoming heavily invested in the care of an isolated elderly man who is having trouble with his eyesight. Shelagh is tasked with organising the Whitsun Maypole celebrations and raffle at the eleventh hour, while Sister Julienne prepares for a coffee morning for expectant mothers.

Motorhoming with Merton & Webster (Channel 5/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Sunday 8th January 2023)

Cotswolds. Series 2, episode 2. Paul Merton and Suki Webster explore the Cotswolds, helping Richard and his apprentice Innis build a dry stone wall before driving to their first off-grid campsite, pitching up for the night for an al fresco three-course dinner. The next day they visit the the Rollright Stones, where they meet Sharp and Blunt, an all-female morris dancing group from nearby Adderbury.

Silent Witness (BBC 1/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Monday 9th January 2023)

Familiar Faces (Part 1/2). An abandoned lorry is found at a quarry with several dead and dying people in the back. At first it appears to be a case of sex trafficking, but it soon becomes clear that all is not as it seems. With the survivors refusing to speak, Nikki and the team must use their pathological and forensic skillset to identify the deceased and piece together what happened.

Waterloo Road (BBC 1/HD | 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Tuesday 10th January 2023)

Waterloo Road is rocked by some shocking news. Kim shares the truth about her personal life, teaching Shola a life lesson. Danny’s first day gets off to a terrible start as he fights with Dean and only gets worse when he’s blamed for another incident he wasn’t a part of. Kim faces backlash from staff over the school’s re-branding.

Silent Witness (BBC 1/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Tuesday 10th January 2023)

Familiar Faces (Part 2/2). The human trafficking case becomes clear as the Lyell team work together to investigate the lorry deaths. Gabriel is presented with an ethical dilemma when he becomes emotionally invested. Jack gets a surprise visit.

Iain Robertson Rambles (BBC Scotland/HD & BBC iPlayer only | 8:30pm to 9:00pm | Thursday 12th January 2023) ** PICK OF THE WEEK **

Ian explores the sights and sounds of the Outer Hebrides as he visits the remnants of a church in Howmore and climbs the 124 metres of Reuval to enjoy an incredible 360-degree view across Benbecula. Heading to North Uist, Iain is joined by River City co-star Kari Corbett on Bernary’s West Beach.

Death in Paradise (BBC 1/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Friday 13th January 2023)

The team investigates a Preppers commune when one of its members is poisoned inside a locked bunke. However, with CCTV footage showing that no one went in or came out while he was in there, it seems likely that he has taken his own life – or has he? Meanwhile, Neville has a series of adventurous dates with Sophie.

All TV guide information taken from DigiGuide — www.getdigiguide.tv/?p=1&r=15119.

UK TV programmes to watch this week : 31/12/2022

Call the Midwife (BBC 1/HD | 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Sunday 1st January 2023) ** NEW SERIES **

A new recruit joins the team in April 1968, and while everyone is keen to make a good impression on the new arrival, she is not afraid to ruffle some feathers. Racial tensions cast a shadow over Poplar following Enoch Powell’s infamous `Rivers of Blood” speech and the effects ripple across the community. A terminally ill patient discharges herself from hospital and wishes to be cared for by her friend.

Motorhoming with Merton & Webster (Channel 5/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Sunday 1st January 2023) ** NEW SERIES **

Cornwall. Series 2, episode 1. Paul Merton and Suki Webster take to the roads again, beginning by heading to Cornwall, home to crystal-clear waters, picturesque fishing villages and beautiful beaches. Their first destination is the Lizard – the most southerly point on the British mainland – where they go seal watching, before going out with a local fisherman to try their hands at catching spider crabs.

Silent Witness (BBC 1/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Monday 2nd January 2023) ** NEW SERIES **

The Penitent (Part 1/2). A man is thrown from a high-rise building, an incident that may be connected to a notorious organised crime syndicate. Aided by the National Crime Agency, Nikki and her team set about uncovering the truth. As they descend deeper into the murky depths of the investigation, Nikki soon finds herself caught in the organisation’s web, with deadly consequences.

Waterloo Road (BBC 1/HD | 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Tuesday 3rd January 2023) ** PICK THE WEEK + NEW SERIES **

The classroom drama returns for a new term seven years since it was last on BBC One, with a few familiar faces alongside the class of 2023. Former pupils Donte and Chlo are excited about daughter Izzy’s first day at school, and while things get off to a bumpy start, events inspire the girl in a way she would never have expected. Headteacher Kim Campbell tries to deal with a peaceful protest – only for it to escalate into a full-blown riot. Starring Angela Griffin, Adam Thomas and Katie Griffiths.

Silent Witness (BBC 1/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Tuesday 3rd January 2023)

The Penitent (Part 2/2). Nikki becomes more involved with the `Ndrangheta” and Jack discovers some disturbing leads. An unlikely alliance brings them closer to the truth but not without some collateral damage.

Iain Robertson Rambles (BBC Scotland/HD & BBC iPlayer only | 8:30pm to 9:00pm | Thursday 5th January 2023) ** NEW SERIES **

The actor takes on the Hebridean Way, a 200-mile challenge that includes 10 islands, six causeways and two ferries, as well as exciting diversions along the route. Setting out from the beautiful white sands on the south beach of Vatersay, Iain and his buoyant companion, Mollie the Collie will head north, visiting some moving monuments along the way.

Death in Paradise (BBC 1/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Friday 6th January 2023) ** NEW SERIES **

A group of astronomers gathers on the cliffs of Saint Marie to watch Jupiter and Saturn align – a once-in-a-lifetime planetary event. However, one of its number – renowned professor Bertrand Sworder – meets an untimely death. The circumstances of his demise warrant the involvement of Neville and Naomi, who soon learn there was some professional hostility towards Sworder. Back at the station, Darlene announces that she has passed her exam and is ready to be a trainee officer. Caribbean-set detective drama, starring Ralf Little, Don Warrington and Tahj Miles.

All TV guide information taken from DigiGuide — www.getdigiguide.tv/?p=1&r=15119.

UK TV programmes to watch this week : 05/02/2022

Call the Midwife (BBC 1/HD | 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Sunday 6th February 2022)

A black raven is found in the parlour. Sister Monica Joan fears it is a bad omen, and consults a clairvoyant for advice on what its appearance means for Nonnatus House. Lucille prepares for her first day back at work, but is clearly not coping well, despite the support of the team. Matthew discovers one of his warehouses is being used illegally by squatters, including a heavily pregnant women who refuses all prenatal care. Dr Turner attends a district health committee meeting on measles vaccination and hopes to increase uptake by running a pilot scheme in Poplar.

Great Coastal Railway Journeys (BBC 2/HD | 6:30pm to 7:00pm | Monday 7th February 2022)

Michael Portillo sets off from Tynemouth on the first leg of a trip to Berwick-upon-Tweed, hearing about of a 19th-century tragedy at sea that inspired 140 local men to set up a coastal rescue service. At Long Sands beach, Michael rolls up his sleeves to help volunteers caring for sick and injured seals at the Tynemouth Aquarium Seal Hospital.

The Pennines: Backbone of Britain (more4 | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Monday 7th February 2022) ** NEW SERIES **

Series exploring the mountain range and meeting people who live there. The first episode comes from the Peak District National Park, a popular destination for climbers.

Great Coastal Railway Journeys (BBC 2/HD | 6:30pm to 7:00pm | Tuesday 8th February 2022)

Michael Portillo heads from Newcastle to Lynemouth, and is intrigued to hear of its part in Newcastle’s early industrial development. En route, Michael travels through the huge Northumberland coalfield and, at Cramlington, he alights to visit an extraordinary work of landform art made from the spoil of a coalmine, the vast Northumberlandia, known as the Lady of the North.

This is Going to Hurt (BBC 1/HD | 9:00pm to 9:50pm | Tuesday 8th February 2022) ** NEW SERIES **

Comedy drama based on the bestselling book by Adam Kay, documenting his time as a junior doctor in obstetrics and gynaecology. In the first episode, Adam treats a racist pregnant woman, but head midwife Tracy is unimpressed with how he handles it. He manages to get out of work on time to attend his best friend’s stag do, but is immediately called back to the hospital to cover a staff shortage, abandoning his boyfriend Harry at the party.

AstraZeneca: A Vaccine for the World (BBC 2/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Tuesday 8th February 2022)

BBC medical editor Fergus Walsh examines the inside story and extraordinary ambition behind the Oxford-AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine. Having reported on the vaccine since its early development, Fergus examines the challenges this jab faced in Europe and beyond, and asks if it fulfilled the original hopes of the scientists in Oxford.

Ben Fogle: New Lives in the Wild (Channel 5/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Tuesday 8th February 2022)

Ben journeys to one of Britain’s furthest outposts, the Shetland Islands, to meet Helen and Jason, a couple just a few years into their new life on the edge of the weather-beaten island of Yell. He discovers why they needed to escape the demands of urban life, and witnesses the obstacles they now face as they pursue their wildest dreams on this beautiful, historical and remote island.

Great Coastal Railway Journeys (BBC 2/HD | 6:30pm to 7:00pm | Wednesday 9th February 2022)

Michael Portillo explores the wild and rugged coastline of Northumberland by rail, beginning in Morpeth, where he finds an historic collection of Northumbrian bagpipes and discovers how difficult they are to play. The East Coast mainline delivers Michael to Widdrington and its long sandy bay, where a beachcombing blacksmith finds treasures to inspire artwork in steel.

Great Coastal Railway Journeys (BBC 2/HD | 6:30pm to 7:00pm | Thursday 10th February 2022)

Michael Portillo travels the length of the Northumbrian coastline, with its glorious beaches and grandiose castles. In the village of Alnmouth he takes to the waves in a traditional skiff built by members of the Alnmouth Coastal Rowing Club. His last stop of the day is the mighty Bamburgh Castle.

Iain Robertson Rambles (BBC Scotland/HD & BBC iPlayer only | 8:30pm to 9:00pm | Thursday 10th February 2022)

For the final third of his 131-mile Speyside Way trek, Iain Robertson is joined by musician Paul Anderson and actor Joanne Gallagher as they celebrate everything from the river’s whisky tradition, fairy walks, and even one of his favourite Scottish landmarks.

Great Coastal Railway Journeys (BBC 2/HD | 6:30pm to 7:00pm | Friday 11th February 2022)

Michael Portillo’s rail trek along the coast of Northumberland continues towards the Farne Islands, takes in the holy island of Lindisfarne, and finishes in Britain’s northernmost town, Berwick-upon-Tweed.

Susan Calman’s Grand Day Out (Channel 5/HD | 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Friday 11th February 2022)

Susan takes her campervan to the rolling countryside of the North Yorkshire Moors and the Yorkshire Dales, a part of the world known as Herriot Country, named after fictional vet James Herriot. He was a creation of a real Yorkshire vet – and Susan’s first stop is at his former home in Thirsk. Susan later heads to Linton in Craven, where she has her first Women’s Institute meeting.

Death in Paradise (BBC 1/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Friday 11th February 2022) ** PICK OF THE WEEK **

When a woman reports a murder and is then found strangled, the team is left wondering whether she was reporting her own murder. Brilliant-though-slightly neurotic detective Neville Parker attempts to lead this perplexing case. Caribbean-set detective drama, starring Ralf Little, Josephine Jobert and Don Warrington.

All TV guide information taken from DigiGuide — www.getdigiguide.tv/?p=1&r=15119.

UK TV programmes to watch this week : 29/01/2022

Call the Midwife (BBC 1/HD | 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Sunday 30th January 2022)

Trixie is assigned to help a crane driver who has been rendered paraplegic following a workplace accident, but whose determined wife refuses all offers of assistance. Nancy and Sister Frances are asked to give a talk to a class of primary school girls after several of them start their periods early. An encounter with an expectant mother leaves Lucille considering a career change, and Shelagh’s efforts to raise money for the playground cause chaos at Nonnatus House.

Great Coastal Railway Journeys (BBC 2/HD | 6:30pm to 7:00pm | Monday 31st January 2022)

Michael Portillo crosses the Culloden Viaduct aboard the Caledonian Sleeper to arrive bright and early in Inverness, from where he heads north on a magnificent scenic adventure to the Orkney archipelago. On boggy moorland overlooking the Moray Firth near Inverness, Michael explores the battlefield at Culloden, where Bonnie Prince Charlie’s Jacobite army fought British Government troops in 1746.

Great Coastal Railway Journeys (BBC 2/HD | 6:30pm to 7:00pm | Tuesday 1st February 2022)

Michael Portillo travels by train north from Inverness to the Orkney Islands. Beginning on the Moray Firth, Michael admires the Cullen Viaduct then enjoys a bowl of Cullen skink at a family-run fishmonger of 150 years’ standing. In the factory smokery, he learns from the owner how the famous soup acquires its distinctive taste.

Great Coastal Railway Journeys (BBC 2/HD | 6:30pm to 7:00pm | Wednesday 2nd February 2022)

Michael Portillo’s Scottish coastal railway journey reaches Invergordon on the Cromarty Firth, the third great inlet on the northeast coast of the Highlands. He arrives on Britain’s northernmost railway, the Far North Line, and heads straight onto the water to explore a former oil drilling rig now moored in the firth.

Great Coastal Railway Journeys (BBC 2/HD | 6:30pm to 7:00pm | Thursday 3rd February 2022)

The latest stage of Michael Portillo’s trek takes him past lochs and castles on the Far North Line to Britain’s northernmost railway station at Thurso. From Lairg on the banks of Loch Shin, Michael heads for a secret conservation area in the 18-mile-long loch to track down one of Scotland’s most elusive and endangered species, the freshwater pearl mussel.

Iain Robertson Rambles (BBC Scotland/HD & BBC iPlayer only | 8:30pm to 9:00pm | Thursday 3rd February 2022)

Having covered almost 50 miles of the Speyside Way source to sea walk, Iain Robertson is joined out of Dalraddy by his River City co-star Sally Howitt and surprises her with a trip on a steam train in Aviemore.

Great Coastal Railway Journeys (BBC 2/HD | 6:30pm to 7:00pm | Friday 4th February 2022)

From Britain’s northernmost station at Thurso in Caithness, Michael Portillo heads for the ferry port of Scrabster to cross the Pentland Firth to the Orkney Islands. Passing the Old Man of Hoy, Michael takes in stunning views of the Orkney archipelago and the rugged coastlines of its 70 islands.

Susan Calman’s Grand Day Out (Channel 5/HD | 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Friday 4th February 2022) ** NEW SERIES **

The travel show returns with a trip to Devon, where Susan investigates a part of the coastline known as the English Riviera. She will discover intriguing places and inspiring sights on her 85-mile adventure, exploring shimmering seas, pristine beaches, and pretty harbours.

Death in Paradise (BBC 1/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Friday 4th February 2022) ** PICK OF THE WEEK **

When a young pop star is found dead at a rehab clinic, it initially looks like a tragic accident. However, Neville is convinced there’s more to her death than meets the eye. Caribbean detective drama, starring Ralf Little, Josephine Jobert and Don Warrington.

All TV guide information taken from DigiGuide — www.getdigiguide.tv/?p=1&r=15119.

UK TV programmes to watch this week : 22/01/2022

The Green Planet (BBC 1/HD | 7:00pm to 8:00pm | Sunday 23rd January 2022)

The strategy, deception and feats of engineering plants use to thrive in the changing weather of different seasons. In the face of conditions ranging from ice and snow to raging fires, survival is often a question of perfect timing – particularly when contending with intense competition and surprising predators.

Call the Midwife (BBC 1/HD | 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Sunday 23rd January 2022)

Sister Hilda and Dr Turner support a young father with a lung condition whose wife is planning a home birth, and discover he is also coping with the repercussions of a past trauma. Cyril looks for a job that will put his qualifications to good use, a first-time mother struggles to bond with her daughter, and Fred comes up with a way to keep the wards cool during a summer heatwave.

Great Coastal Railway Journeys (BBC 2/HD | 6:30pm to 7:00pm | Monday 24th January 2022) ** NEW SERIES **

Michael Portillo travels around the British Isles by train, immersing himself in the magnificent scenery of the nation’s coastal regions. Meeting locals, he discovers passion and pride in their history, culture and identity, and seeks to understand the challenges each region faces today. He begins at Siccar Point in Berwickshire, which was the site of an extraordinary 18th-century discovery and is a place of pilgrimage for earth scientists from across the world.

Great Coastal Railway Journeys (BBC 2/HD | 6:30pm to 7:00pm | Tuesday 25th January 2022)

Michael Portillo continues his Scottish coastal journey along the Firth of Forth at the railway engineering icon for which it is famous throughout the world, the Forth Bridge, and reminisces about his delight in the crossing as a child visiting his Scottish grandparents. On the Firth’s southern bank, Michael stops in the port of Leith to tour the Royal Yacht Britannia, before crossing the River Forth at Stirling and heading east to Alloa on the northern bank.

Great Coastal Railway Journeys (BBC 2/HD | 6:30pm to 7:00pm | Wednesday 26th January 2022)

Michael Portillo begins this leg of his Scottish railway journey from Dunbar to Peterhead in the beautiful medieval city of Stirling. At a towering monument overlooking the River Forth, Michael hears how, in 1297, William Wallace inflicted a shocking defeat on the English army at Stirling Bridge. Travelling across country to the River Tay, Michael discovers the city of Perth, before heading to the banks of the Tay for a magical sunset canoe trip to spot beavers.

Great Coastal Railway Journeys (BBC 2/HD | 6:30pm to 7:00pm | Thursday 27th January 2022)

Michael Portillo visits Leuchars, known nowadays on the railways as Leuchars for St Andrews, which is Scotland’s oldest university and is located on a beautiful beachfront.

Iain Robertson Rambles (BBC Scotland/HD & BBC iPlayer only | 8:30pm to 9:00pm | Thursday 27th January 2022)

Iain Robertson starts a new 131-mile ramble as he heads north and tackles the Speyside Way. He heads in to the wilderness with Taggart veteran Colin McCredie and friend Barratt Robertson.

Great Coastal Railway Journeys (BBC 2/HD | 6:30pm to 7:00pm | Friday 28th January 2022)

Michael Portillo’s Scottish railway journey reaches Aberdeen. From the granite city, Michael heads out to Forvie National Nature Reserve, which is 1,000 hectares of protected coastal habitat dominated by grassy dunes.

Kate Humble’s Coastal Walks (Channel 5/HD | 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Friday 28th January 2022)

The naturalist walks a hilly coastline that is home to two of north Wales’s most popular tourist destinations – the walled town of Conwy, and the Victorian resort of Llandudno, once dubbed the Queen of Welsh resorts.

Death in Paradise (BBC 1/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Friday 28th January 2022) ** PICK OF THE WEEK **

Florence’s undercover role takes a dangerous turn when she finds herself in familiar surroundings, amid a murder investigation. Facing a race against time, Neville sets out to solve the crime.

All TV guide information taken from DigiGuide — www.getdigiguide.tv/?p=1&r=15119.

UK TV programmes to watch this week : 09/01/2021

London’s Greatest Bridges With Rob Bell (Channel 5/HD | 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Wednesday 13th January 2021)

Rob Bell explores the extraordinary stories of four of London’s most iconic bridges, uncovering the history behind how – and why – they were built. In the second episode, Rob focuses on the story of London’s Tower Bridge, looking closely at he bridge’s ingenious engineering, and how this bridge has become entwined with the people of the east-end, the Blitz, and the end of Empire.

Grand Designs (Channel 4/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Wednesday 13th January 2021)

Kevin McCloud meets Greg and Georgie who are taking on the highly ambitious task of converting a dilapidated, 35-year-old barn in Kent. The build will be a huge challenge involving the painstaking conservation of the existing rotten structure, building a new two-storey internal steel frame and recycling everything they can to stretch their £250,000 budget.

The Thames: Britain’s Great River with Tony Robinson (Channel 5/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Wednesday 13th January 2021)

In the second episode, Tony explores the river’s role as a vital trade artery connecting the country to the outside world, going behind the scenes at London Gateway, the newest and largest container port on the Thames. Later, he visits Whitstable, famous for its oysters that come from the Thames estuary.

Saving Lives at Sea (BBC 2/HD | 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Thursday 14th January 2021)

A teenage paddleboarder is being swept out to sea off the coast of north Wales, so the crew of the Abersoch lifeboat race to reach him before he is lost for ever. The crew of the Lizard lifeboat station face two missions, as they are called out to a cargo ship taking on water and in danger of sinking with its crew still on board, followed by a small yacht being battered by a storm in the Atlantic.

Iain Robertson Rambles (BBC Scotland/HD & BBC iPlayer only | Thursday 14th January 2021)

In the second of two programmes, actor Iain Robertson treks the last 52 miles of the West Highland Way, joined by some familiar faces along the way. He and his River City co-star Lesley Hart begin with a six-mile walk from Crianlarich to Tyndrum, before he ventures into the mist-swirling valley of Glencoe, and a rained-off climb sees him reunited with Small Faces actor Steven Duffy for an unscheduled day trip. He then makes it across the Devil’s Staircase and visits the town of Kinlochleven, where his father grew up, before finally descending into Fort William and facing Ben Nevis.

Death in Paradise (BBC 1/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Thursday 14th January 2021) ** PICK OF THE WEEK **

An archaeologist is poisoned during a dig, and with only two suspects and a quick confession, it looks like this is going to be an open-and-shut case. However, it turns out the archaeologists were not alone – and the team realise they have little to no evidence. Meanwhile, Neville and Florence realise they might get along better than they originally thought, although the DI’s attempts to embrace island life do not find favour with the Commissioner.

Susan Calman’s Grand Day Out (Channel 5/HD | 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Friday 15th January 2021)

The comedian aboard her vintage camper van, explores the mountainous region of north-west England and the Lake District. She begins her 142-mile journey just south of Penrith, travelling down through the lakes, before heading west to finish near Keswick. Along the way she meets the people and visits the places that make this most scenic part of Britain unique. On Ullswater, Susan gets a chance to take charge of the oldest working passenger vessel in the world, the Lady of the Lake. Then she hears of Beatrix Potter’s love of the region before heading the spooky Muncaster Castle.

The World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys (Channel 5/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Friday 15th January 2021)

A journey through Sicily that takes in seven Unesco World Heritage sites, with the first stop being a visit to a castle whose baron was inspired by Hampton Court. There’s a meeting in Modica with Sicily’s most famous chocolatier, a trip on the unique railway that travels around Etna, and a visit to Ragusa, a baroque-inspired city famous for its beauty and for its spiral railway that travels within a mountain.

All TV guide information taken from DigiGuide — www.getdigiguide.tv/?p=1&r=15119.

UK TV programmes to watch this week : 02/01/2021

Winter Walks (BBC Four/HD | 7:00pm to 7:30pm | Monday 4th January 2021)

Celebrities explore landscapes in Yorkshire and Cumbria. Selina Scott enjoys a gentle walk around Wharfedale in the Yorkshire Dales. Along the way, she learns stories of extraordinary philanthropy, meets walkers and a fisherman, and ends her journey drinking local ale in a pub famed for ferret racing.

Winter Walks (BBC Four/HD | 7:00pm to 7:30pm | Tuesday 5th January 2021)

Regional series in which celebrities explore landscapes in Yorkshire and Cumbria. Lemn Sissay walks along ancient drovers’ roads in Cumbria’s Dentdale, meeting locals, including a farmer who collects vintage tractors and a lone bagpiper, and making a challenging climb to England’s highest mainline train station.

The Cheetah Family and Me (BBC 2/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Tuesday 5th January 2021)

Wildlife film-maker Gordon Buchanan gets close to wild cheetah in the Kalahari, experiencing first-hand the very real dangers these beautiful big cats face. The programme follows two females, each with a litter of cubs, as they navigate a harsh environment, dangerous wildlife and dwindling prey. Part one of two. 

Winter Walks (BBC Four/HD | 7:00pm to 7:30pm | Wednesday 6th January 2021)

Celebrities explore landscapes in Yorkshire and Cumbria. Simon Armitage takes a coastal walk along Yorkshire’s enchanting and historic frontier with the North Sea. Starting in Ravenscar, Simon follows a disused railway line, passing former quarries and brickworks, before taking a beach walk from Boggle Hole to the picture-perfect Robin Hood’s Bay.

London’s Greatest Bridges With Rob Bell (Channel 5/HD | 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Wednesday 6th January 2021)

Rob Bell explores the extraordinary stories of four of London’s most iconic bridges, uncovering the history behind how – and why – they were built. In the first episode, Rob focuses on the original, and for 17 centuries the only bridge across the Thames, London Bridge. Rob explores the multiple versions of this bridge over the centuries and charts how each has shaped Britain’s capital city, from the Romans who used it to control southern England, to the astonishing and raucous medieval bridge, designed by priests, inhabited by hundreds, and financed and managed by City merchants.

The Cheetah Family and Me (BBC 2/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Wednesday 6th January 2021)

Wildlife film-maker Gordon Buchanan gets close to wild cheetah in the Kalahari, experiencing first-hand the very real dangers these beautiful big cats face. With the help of guides Richard Satekge and Julius Mkhize, this programme follows two female cheetah, each with a litter of cubs, as they navigate harsh environments, dangerous wildlife and dwindling prey. Part two of two.

Grand Designs (Channel 4/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Wednesday 6th January 2021)

Kevin McCloud follows more of Britain’s most ambitious self-building projects, as intrepid individuals attempt to design and construct the home of their dreams. In this first edition, Kevin meets former army captain Justin, who has spent £1.8million on an abandoned neo-Gothic cemetery keeper’s lodge and adjoining ex-council toilet block in south-west London. Justin’s vision is to restore the lodge but demolish the ugly toilet blocks and replace them with an enormous luxury ground-floor extension, with an added moat and a giant basement with a swimming pool – all just metres from the nearest grave.

The Thames: Britain’s Great River with Tony Robinson (Channel 5/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Wednesday 6th January 2021)

The actor and presenter discovers what makes the Thames one of the greatest rivers in the world. This time, Tony gains access to one of the most iconic landmarks to sit on – or over – the River Thames, the Battersea Power Station. He goes inside the famous Control Room A to see how it is being restored and even has a go at replacing one of the laylights in the ceiling. Upstream in Berkshire, he visits the Cliveden House, before learning more about a unique art installation project on the river.

Winter Walks (BBC Four/HD | 7:00pm to 7:30pm | Thursday 7th January 2021)

Yorkshire peer Baroness Sayeeda Warsi takes time out from her political life to seek peace and calm in the Dales. On her ramble through Wharfedale, the former government minister meets villagers in Kettlewell, a farmer preparing for lambing and a long-distance fell runner.

Iain Robertson Rambles (BBC Scotland/HD & BBC iPlayer only | 8:30pm to 9:00pm | Thursday 7th January 2021)

In the first of two programmes, Iain Robertson treks the 47 miles from Glasgow to Crianlarich, taking in Milngavie, Loch Lomond, a dog rescue and a spot of kayaking. Along the way he is joined by fellow actors Lesley Hart, Steven Duffy, restaurateur Guy Cowan and writer Donna Franceschild.

Death in Paradise (BBC 1/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Thursday 7th January 2021) ** PICK OF THE WEEK **

The Caribbean-set whodunit returns for its 10th anniversary series, which promises more murders and the return of one or two familiar faces. A TV news presenter is found dead in her pool at home. DI Neville Parker is convinced her co-host is responsible. But given he was live on air at the time, how could he have done it? The return of an experienced sergeant to the island could be just what Neville needs to crack the case.

Winter Walks (BBC Four/HD | 7:00pm to 7:30pm | Friday 8th January 2021)

Celebrities explore landscapes in Yorkshire and Cumbria. The Rev Richard Coles walks through the North York Moors and along the Sutton Bank. His journey takes him to the ruins of Rievaulx Abbey, once one of England’s most powerful Cistercian monasteries. where he reflects on the need for silent contemplation.

Susan Calman’s Grand Day Out (Channel 5/HD | 8:00pm to 9:00pm | Friday 8th January 2021)

The comedian explores Devon and Cornwall in her vintage camper van, taking in some dramatic scenery, unspoilt countryside and incredible historic sights along the way. She stumbles across one of the area’s more unique attractions, including The Gnome Reserve, where she meets a local who has a collection of more than 1,000 gnomes, and finds out where the term ‘stickler’ comes from by taking part in the ancient sport of Cornish Wrestling, before ending her journey at the stunning coastal viewpoint of St Bedruthan Steps.

The World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys (Channel 5/HD | 9:00pm to 10:00pm | Friday 8th January 2021)

The West Highland Line is one of the world’s truly legendary train routes, crossing spectacular Scottish moors and mountains as it heads towards Skye. Starting in Glasgow, it glides towards Loch Lomond, the world’s largest inland stretch of water. It then sweeps north to enter the wild and windswept landscape of Rannoch Moor. After ascending to Corrour, Britain’s highest station, the journey passes Ben Nevis, the UK’s tallest mountain and then across the famous Glenfinnan viaduct. The coastal town of Mallaig is gateway to the Isle of Skye with its world-famous Highland cuisine and many breathtaking views.

All TV guide information taken from DigiGuide — www.getdigiguide.tv/?p=1&r=15119.