Thursday’s TV Shake‑Up on U&Yesterday: From Historic Rails to Classic Car Carnage
U&Yesterday is pulling out all the stops this Thursday, 29 Oct 2026. Whether you’re a rail‑fan, a history buff or a car enthusiast, the channel’s schedule offers a sweep of documentaries, restoration shows and a touch of steampunk. Below is a quick guide to the key programmes, with a brief opinion on why they’re worth your time.
Great Continental Railway Journeys – Warsaw to Kraków (S3 Ep3)
Michael Portillo trades his golf clubs for a 1913 copy of Bradshaw’s Continental Railway Guide and takes viewers along the rail routes from Warsaw to Kraków. The episode’s charm lies in the combination of historic research and on‑the‑ground encounters with locals. For those who enjoy travel narratives grounded in archival material, this is a solid pick.
Bangers & Cash – Riley Falcon (S8 Ep4)
Dave’s in Lincolnshire picking up a 1935 Riley Falcon – a good‑looking saloon with a pre‑select gearbox. The episode is a classic car enthusiast’s delight, showcasing the restoration process and the lore behind each vehicle. If you’re into classic cars, this is one of the better options on the evening.
Ghosts of Alderney – Hidden History (S1 Ep1)
Piers Secunda digs into Alderney’s wartime past, revealing new evidence of Nazi atrocities on British soil. The documentary’s investigative approach offers a sobering look at history that many viewers will find both informative and moving.
War Factories – Occupied Territories (S1 Ep6)
This episode focuses on Peugeot’s sabotage efforts in Nazi‑occupied France, showing how workers and bosses undermined the Nazis’ use of military vehicles. It’s a compelling narrative that blends industrial history with human courage.
Antiques Roadshow – Abbey Pumping Station (S40 Ep24)
The episode returns to Abbey Pumping Station in Leicester, where Joe Orton’s sister brings in the typewriter he used for some of his most important scripts. For those who appreciate quirky antiques and personal stories, this episode holds up well.
Dream Car Fixers – Rover P6 (S2 Ep5)
Sheldon and Peter tackle a Rover P6, the first ever European Car of the Year, aiming to make it reliable for everyday use. The episode is a blend of mechanical insight and nostalgic storytelling, appealing to car lovers.
Find It, Fix It, Flog It – Steampunk Lamp (S3 Ep14)
Henry Cole builds a steampunk lamp from a copper electric central heating pipe while Simon O’Brien modernises a dated Welsh dresser. The episode offers creative DIY inspiration for those who love blending old and new.
Tropic of Capricorn with Simon Reeve – South Africa to Madagascar (S1 Ep2)
Simon Reeve continues his quest to trace the southern tropic, travelling from South Africa to Madagascar. The episode delivers cultural insights and scenic footage, making it a worthwhile watch for travel enthusiasts.
Bottom line: Thursday’s lineup on U&Yesterday offers a balanced mix of history, travel and automotive passion. Whether you’re tracing rail routes, delving into wartime factories or watching classic cars come back to life, there’s a programme to satisfy every mood. Pick your preference and enjoy a thoughtfully curated evening.
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