The Big Steam Adventure

In this episode John Sergeant, Peter Davison and Paul ‘Piglet' Middleton explore the Isle of Wight, an Island opposite Southampton on England's southern coast. The trio start their journey on the mainland, boarding the Waverley, the last passenger-carrying steam ship in the world.

Peter takes the helm as they set sail across the Solent, one of the busiest shipping lanes in the world. While Peter struggles to steer a straight course, John and Piglet explore the enormous engines that power this magnificent machine.

Safely ashore ‘The Island', as it's known, they meet up with Ralph and his hundred-year-old Sentinel steam lorry and head to Carisbrooke Castle, taking the scenic cliff-top route along the Military Road! Exploring the castle offers an insight into the island's history and also provides a costly game of boule for John who, as loser, has to treat Piglet and Peter to dinner at the famous Crab Shack on the beach near Ventnor.

The next day they continue their travels starting on the Isle of Wight steam railway where Peter has a go at restoring one of the historic carriages before traveling on Calbourne, a 135-year-old steam engine.

The final leg sees John and Peter towed unceremoniously behind a converted steam roller – Dragon Fly. Now a fabulous Showman's wagon with surrounding lights, this is a beautiful looking machine. But there's a problem, there's only room for two! A caravan is hitched up for John and Peter, but the journey on solid tyres is anything but pleasant as they're bounced around the final few miles to Bembridge.

When they arrive, it's all worth it. A drink overlooking the harbour with the Showman lit up in all its glory is a fitting end to this trip across a magical island.