Great British Railway Journeys S13E2 backdrop
Great British Railway Journeys poster

Great British Railway Journeys (2010)

S13E2 Hassocks to Benenden

May 18, 2021 Season 13 Episode 2 Documentary

Beginning his journey in Hassocks, Michael travels to the picturesque village of Ditchling, once home to a vibrant community of Roman Catholic artists during the interwar period. He explores their influence on the village, the capital, and the railway system. In Bexhill-on-Sea, Michael uncovers the legacy of air raid wardens, famously portrayed in the BBC's Dad’s Army. He learns that Bexhill faced significant aerial bombardment and was a key target in the Nazis’ Operation Sealion. Continuing north to Burwash, he visits Bateman’s, a stunning Jacobean residence previously owned by renowned author Rudyard Kipling until 1936. Michael delves into Kipling's life and literary contributions. Finally, the charming Kent and East Sussex heritage railway takes Michael on a scenic ride from Bodiam Castle through the beautiful Rother Valley to Tenterden.