Paul’s fascination with trains stems from his childhood. His father was a driver on the London Underground and when, as a young boy, Paul witnessed his dad driving a train across Putney Bridge, it sparked a lifelong fascination of railways. Now, he is following in his father’s footsteps by joining the drivers upfront and in control of some of the world’s most amazing trains and experiencing the best views as he travels through breathtaking landscapes in the UK and Europe. From steep gradients and tight curves to pinpoint platform stops, Paul will learn what it takes to keep these mighty machines on track. Visiting Germany, France, Switzerland, Wales, Northern England and Isle of Wight, he’ll meet the people who keep the railways running - from engineers and conductors to passengers with fascinating stories of their own.
DirectorBen Duncan
CreatorQuentin Clarke
Isle of Wight
Apr 9, 2026
Paul Merton takes charge of some iconic locomotives. On the Isle of Wight, Paul drives a heritage steam train and finds out how the island helped with D-Day.
Switzerland
Apr 16, 2026
In Switzerland, Paul travels on the stunning Glacier Express and drives a funicular train to the Reichenbach Falls, where Sherlock Holmes met his fictional demise.
France
Apr 23, 2026
On the French Riviera, Paul takes control of a steam engine on the stunning Pine Cone line
Northern England
Apr 30, 2026
Paul steams through north England, enjoys a royal ride and drives a 50-tonne wartime loco.
Wales
May 7, 2026
Paul rides a signal-free line and visits the birthplace of Thomas the Tank Engine in Wales.
Germany
May 14, 2026
Paul rides a ‘car on rails’ made from a Trabant and drives his biggest steam train yet!
