Great British Railway Journeys

S12E15 Aberystwyth to Newtown

With his 1930s Bradshaw's Guide in hand, Michael Portillo embarks on a journey from Aberystwyth, venturing into the scenic Cambrian Mountains at Devil's Bridge before concluding in Newtown, Powys. His 250-mile adventure across North Wales culminates at Gregynog Hall, the birthplace of the nation's inaugural classical music festival. Michael learns about the remarkable sisters, Gwendoline and Margaret Davies, who utilized their inheritance from their grandfather, a prominent Welsh railway builder, to transform the estate into a hub for art and music starting in 1933. In the stunning music room, a Welsh harpist conjures the essence of both historic and contemporary festivals.