Roads, Rumours and Recipes: The U&Dave Lineup That Keeps Saturday Alive
If you’ve been wandering the U&Dave schedule with an empty pocket and a craving for something that feels both familiar and fresh, you’re in the right place. Below is a no‑frills, opinionated look at the shows airing on Tuesday – from the nostalgic thrum of Top Gear’s roadsters to the culinary adventures of Rick Stein in Cornwall, with a side of investigative drama and light‑hearted comedy. Which programmes keep the energy alive and which just sit on the edge of your attention? We’ve narrowed it down and added a few personal takes to help you decide.
Rev Up with Top Gear (S15 Ep 6)
Jeremy, Richard and James take a nostalgic trip through the UK’s sports car heritage, plus a cameo from Jeff Goldblum. It’s a familiar formula – witty banter, car lore and a few quirky challenges – but the nostalgia factor keeps it engaging. The show remains a reliable source of automotive lore, even if the “action” is more about conversation than high‑speed stunts.
Border Force America’s Gatekeepers (S2 Ep 7 & 8)
Two consecutive episodes dive into human stories and smuggling antics at the US border. The first sees a Venezuelan refugee confronting traffickers, while the second tackles drug smuggling and a family’s desperate plea. The docuseries offers a sobering look at borders, though the pacing can feel uneven. It’s a solid choice if you’re interested in real‑world drama without the click‑bait spectacle.
Rick Stein’s Cornwall (S2 Ep 6‑9)
Stein’s culinary odyssey takes him from king crab to historic naval stories, and even a quirky cheese‑eating challenge. The series marries food, history and local colour, and while the pacing is leisurely, it offers a comforting, almost meditative viewing experience. It’s a dependable pick if you want a taste of Cornwall without the travel.
Hairy Bikers’ Best of British (S1 Ep 26)
Two bikers turn gardens into feasts, celebrating British cuisine. The blend of travel, cooking and camaraderie keeps the show light, though some may find it a bit repetitive. It’s a solid pick for viewers who enjoy culinary exploration without the high‑energy pacing of other cook‑shows.
Canal Boat Diaries (S5 Ep 2)
Robbie Cumming navigates Birmingham’s waterways, offering a quirky, urban take on the classic canal‑boat genre. While the narrative is modest, it’s an accessible option for those who enjoy light travelogue content.
Our Guy in India (S1 Ep 2)
Guy Martin ventures from Mumbai to Goa, confronting local cultures and a motorbike race. The show offers a mix of adventure and practical insight, and while the pacing can be uneven, it gives a fresh perspective on Indian travel.
Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Fishing (S2 Ep 1)
Paul and Bob discuss childhoods and family over fishing on the River Usk. The conversational tone is charming, though the content is quite niche. It’s a relaxed choice for viewers who appreciate a laid‑back, reflective vibe.
Would I Lie To You? (S15 Ep 1 & 2)
Rob Brydon, Lee Mack and David Mitchell quiz guests between fact and fiction. The format remains engaging, though some segments feel predictable. It’s a reliable pick for those who enjoy light‑hearted panel banter.
QI XL (S8 Ep 10 & 11)
Stephen Fry leads a panel through health‑safety quizzes and bizarre highs and lows. The intellectual banter is sharp, though the content can be a bit niche. It’s a solid pick for viewers who appreciate a clever, quiz‑driven format.
Have I Got a Bit More News for You (S65 Ep 10)
Clive Myrie hosts a panel that delves into current events with a humorous twist. The show keeps the conversation lively, though the comedic edge may not land for everyone. It’s a dependable option for viewers who want a quick, witty news recap.
8 Out of 10 Cats (S20 Ep 8)
Aisling Bea, Rizzle Kicks and others present comedy sketches. The pacing is brisk and the material is varied, making it a solid, light‑hearted pick for those who enjoy quick laughs.
Mock the Week (S18 Ep 12)
Dara O Briain and Hugh Dennis deliver a topical comedy special. The show offers sharp satire, though the humor can be polarising. It’s a reliable pick for viewers who enjoy incisive commentary on current affairs.
Judge Romesh (S2 Ep 4)
Romesh offers a courtroom experience that mixes real‑life drama with a dash of humour. The format is engaging, though the pacing can be uneven. It’s a solid pick for those who appreciate a blend of legal proceedings and light humour.
Teleshopping (two segments)
A standard shopping segment that offers a break from narrative shows. It is a neutral filler that might appeal to viewers looking for something low‑stakes.
Bottom line: From the nostalgic roadsters of Top Gear to the culinary charm of Rick Stein, this lineup offers a mix of familiar themes and fresh takes. Pick the shows that align with your mood – whether it’s a calm culinary journey or a quick comedic break – and let U&Dave keep your evenings engaging.