Mark Williams on the Rails

Relive two centuries of Britain's unique railway history, from the very beginnings to the trains of the future.

In March 1804 a momentous event took place, an event that would change the world forever - the world's first steam locomotive pulled a ten-ton load of iron for nine and a half miles along metal tracks.

The 'iron horse' was born and in the following 200 years railways would change the face of the world. On The Rails tells their story, from the very beginnings to the trains of the future.

Travelling the length and breadth of the UK, Mark Williams - successful actor and dedicated train enthusiast - gets to grips with the country's unique railway heritage, tracking down some of the finest locomotives ever produced including the magnificent Duchess of Sutherland. From the earliest designs of Richard Trevithick and the Stephenson's to the advent of Class 31s, the development of the London Underground and the evolution of railway coaches, Mark reveals how our railways have been shaped over two centuries.