Travel documentaries

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Travel shows on BBC Select inspire exploration, adventure, and cultural immersion and transport you to captivating destinations around the world. Our selection of travel documentaries feature tour guides such as Joanna Lumley, Alexander Armstrong and Bettany Hughes and offer glimpses into incredible landscapes and lesser known gems across the globe. Embark on journeys across Europe, Asia and more with our collection of travel series and films.

Scotland's Poshest Train with Alan Cumming

Scotland's Poshest Train with Alan Cumming

Beloved actor Alan Cumming in on an extraordinary adventure on board The Royal Scotsman, an ultra-luxurious train promising an unparalleled odyssey through the very heart of Scotland. From picturesque scenery and rich history to sumptuous spa rooms and culinary artistry, Alan revels in the Royal Scotsman’s splendor while enjoying everything his homeland has to offer in his own unique style.

Around the World in 80 Weighs

Around the World in 80 Weighs

Six people from across Britain, all living with obesity, travel the globe to learn how people around the world are affected by obesity. In each country they visit, they discover traditional ways of eating and forms of exercise in cultures as diverse as Japan, India and the United States. But can this exposure to new ways of eating and living help them lose weight permanently?

Ancient Egypt by Train

Ancient Egypt by Train

Professor Alice Roberts investigates one of the world’s oldest and greatest civilizations, Ancient Egypt, in a particularly unique way. She’s doing it by train. This fascinating travel and history series starts at the very end of the Ancient Egyptian empire in Alexandria, where the Romans came to take control, and travels back in time, heading south, to Cairo, Luxor and Aswan.

Great British Railway Journeys

Great British Railway Journeys

All aboard! Armed with his trusty vintage Bradshaw’s train guide, Michael Portillo explores the UK that the railways made. Along the route, he uncovers hidden gems, fascinating historical sites, glorious scenery and welcoming communities from across Britain. Michael reveals how much the nation has changed since his Bradshaw guide was printed, and what artifacts remain.

Great American Railroad Journeys

Great American Railroad Journeys

Michael Portillo rides the historic railroads of America, using an Appleton’s General Travel Guide to the United States, published in 1879. His travels take him to big cities, rural outposts, sites of historical importance and glorious natural wonders. Along the way, he delves into the past of the nation and meets the locals, while encountering the most breathtaking railroads in the world.