Cumbria will take centre stage tonight on Channel 4 show Paul Merton Driving Amazing Trains.
The comedian and TV presenter visited county attractions including the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway and Windermere Jetty Museum.
The show will be broadcast today, Thursday April 30, at 8pm.
Paul steps aboard the historic steam launch Osprey to experience the unique engineering heritage of England’s largest lake.
During his visit, Paul explored this living heritage aboard the 1902 steam launch Osprey, expertly skippered by Lakeland Arts’ heritage boats boating manager Ian Shirra.
Osprey has spent its entire life on Windermere. Built in 1902 as a private steam launch, it was later converted into a passenger vessel for the Bowness Bay Boating Company in 1948, carrying generations of visitors across the lake before joining the collection at Windermere Jetty Museum.
Paul Merton Driving Amazing Trains is a six-part Channel 4 series in which Paul takes control of some of the world’s most iconic locomotives and steam-powered vehicles.
He also visits Eskdale and Ravenglass Railway. Known as the La’al Ratty, it is a 15-inch-gauge seven-mile railway.
His lifelong fascination with engineering began in childhood, inspired by his father, a driver on the London Underground. Now, he follows in those footsteps – exploring not only the mechanics of transport but the stories, landscapes, and craftsmanship behind them.
He said: “This series isn’t just about locomotives, it’s about history, engineering, and the joy of travel. For me, it’s also a way to connect with my dad’s legacy on the rails. I can’t wait for viewers to come along for the ride.”
All episodes are available now on Channel 4+.
