Villages by the Sea

S03E10 Laxey

Located on the eastern shore of the Isle of Man, Laxey is a popular spot for tourists today, but archaeologist Ben Robinson discovers that it was not the scenic beaches or mountains that drew Victorian visitors; rather, it was an incredible feat of engineering—the largest waterwheel in the world. Ben connects with local resident Matthew Boyd, who is busy restoring the impressive 22-meter-wide wheel, and learns how it transformed this small mining village into one of the most prosperous areas in the British Isles. Additionally, he joins mining historian Peter Geddes for a journey deep underground to witness the challenging conditions miners endured.