10 Shows Like Great Canal Journeys (2014)

Description: This documentary captures the essence of slow travel and exploration, focusing on the journey rather than the destination, much like the leisurely pace of canal journeys. It offers a unique perspective on the people and places encountered along the way.

Fact: The film was shot entirely on a single cruise ship, providing an intimate look at life aboard. It was one of the first documentaries to use a fly-on-the-wall approach, influencing many travel shows that followed.

Description: While primarily a cooking show, it shares a deep appreciation for British culture and regional diversity, highlighting the beauty and uniqueness of different parts of the country, similar to the way canal journeys explore local landscapes and traditions.

Fact: The show features top chefs competing to create dishes for a prestigious banquet. It has been running for over 15 years and has become a staple of British food television.

Description: This show blends travel with humor and personal growth, as the reluctant traveler experiences new cultures and landscapes. The focus on the journey and the unexpected encounters along the way mirrors the spirit of canal travel.

Fact: The series was created by Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant, who sent Karl Pilkington to various global destinations with little preparation. It became a cult hit for its unconventional take on travel documentaries.

Description: This travel documentary series takes viewers on a breathtaking journey through the Himalayas, showcasing the majesty of nature and the resilience of local cultures. The slow, reflective pace and focus on the journey itself are reminiscent of canal travel.

Fact: Michael Palin traveled over 3,000 miles across six countries in the Himalayas. The series was praised for its stunning visuals and Palin's warm, inquisitive approach to travel.

Description: Simon Reeve's journey through the Americas highlights the beauty and challenges of diverse regions, much like the exploration of waterways. The series emphasizes connection with local communities and the natural world.

Fact: Reeve traveled from the northernmost tip of Alaska to the southernmost point of South America. The series is known for its stunning cinematography and Reeve's engaging storytelling.

Description: This travel series explores the vast and varied landscapes of America, much like the way canal journeys traverse diverse waterways. It combines personal reflection with cultural insights, offering a rich, immersive experience.

Fact: Stephen Fry traveled over 20,000 miles across all 50 states in a London black cab. The series was praised for its humor and depth, providing a unique outsider's perspective on American life.

Description: This documentary series explores the rich history and culture of Jewish communities around the world, much like how canal journeys delve into the heritage and stories of the places they pass through. It combines personal narratives with historical insights.

Fact: The series was presented by historian Simon Schama and took five years to produce. It covers 3,000 years of Jewish history across multiple continents.

Description: This series celebrates the beauty and history of Britain's coastline, offering a similar sense of exploration and discovery as canal journeys. It combines geography, history, and personal stories to create a rich tapestry of place.

Fact: The show was originally intended to be a one-off documentary but became a long-running series due to its popularity. It has covered over 10,000 miles of coastline in the UK and beyond.