Jonathan's Gen
Railtours, Preserved Railway Events, Ferries and Service Trains Gen List

Milton Keynes Branch Meeting - The Brian Morrison Collection Thursday 4 June 2026 @ 19:30 - 22:00 Please note: The RCTS Privacy Policy applies to everyone participating in, or registering for, this event. Richard Tuplin, editor of Railway Herald, presents a collection of images taken by the late photographer Brian Morrison. Network Rail - The Quadrant: MK, Elder Gate Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire MK9 1EN United Kingdom

North Eastern Railway Association Lecture Series Hopetown Darlington is pleased to welcome the North Eastern Railway Association (NER) with their programme of fascinating talks. These lectures focus on a range of railway topics, and include relevant artifacts and resources (if available) and a Q&A session. Saturday 6 June - 'A Ride to Richmond' by Les Cairnes An illustrated talk on the railway from Darlington to Richmond, showing the stations, signal cabins, crossings and buildings along the route, as well as adverts for the services over time. Les will also cover the branch railway up to Catterick Camp, which conveyed soldiers and military equipment. Saturday 5 September - 'Teesdale Tracks and Derailed Dukes' by Chris Lloyd Chris is well-known as Features Editor of the Northern Echo. He will describe the rise and fall of Teesdale's railways: how the dale's most powerful landowner went to dastardly lengths to prevent railways from arriving, yet when they came, they were the most extraordinary lines anywhere in the world over the wildest of terrain and the most stupendous of viaducts. These lectures will be recorded and avaiable to view in the NER members area. Hopetown, Darlington

A Different Perspective Speaker - Steven Fairbrother Thursday 18 June 2026 An award-winning landscape and wildlife photographer, Steven only started his railway photography journey four years ago but has been hooked ever since. The talk details his travels around the country at various diesel galas and lineside locations. Steven is always amazed by the knowledge lifelong rail enthusiasts have and is keen to get some of his questions answered as well as answer yours. All presentations are held in the Roundhouse lecture theatre commencing at 19.30 and finishing between 21.45 and 22.00. Doors open at 19.00. Entry is via the Commercial entrance (electric gate), which is open between approximately 19.00 and 19.25 to allow a prompt start at 19.30. Presentations are held on the third Thursday of every month unless otherwise indicated. Hot and cold drinks are available from the buffet before 19.30 and during the interval. Admission is normally £3.00 for members and £5.00 for non-members. Free parking on site. Barrow Hill Roundhouse

85 Years Of Letting Off Steam: An Evening With Christopher Awdry Thursday 25 June 2026 On 25 June, London's iconic Eventim Apollo will host a truly special one-off evening. Promoted by Splot and Full Steam Ahead, '85 Years Of Letting Off Steam', celebrates the life and legacy of Christopher Awdry, storyteller, railway historian, and custodian of one of the world's most beloved literary worlds. For over eight decades, Christopher Awdry has lived a life shaped by steam, story and tradition. Together with his father, Wilbert Awdry, the Reverend who first imagined the Island of Sodor, he helped create the 42 books that form The Railway Series, a cornerstone of children's publishing that continues to delight new generations through Thomas & Friends. Hosted by legendary record producer and lifelong rail enthusiast Pete Waterman, the evening promises warmth, insight and no shortage of steam-powered nostalgia. Through conversation, rare insights and untold stories, audiences will be taken on a journey across Christopher's remarkable 85 years, from his early attempts at writing (including an abandoned detective series), to his career as a government-recruited tax officer and ultimately to his pivotal role as Railway Series author from 1983 to 2011. Joining Christopher Awdry on stage will be Mike O'Donnell, the original composer behind the beloved Thomas & Friends television score; Clive Spong, whose detailed artwork helped define the visual identity of The Railway Series; and Mark Moraghan, one of the modern voices of Sodor. Together, they bring a rare, multi-generational perspective to one of the most enduring storytelling worlds ever created. There will be a special VIP package, which will include: An intimate, pre-show lecture from Christopher Awdry, with meet & greet / photo opportunity (with Christopher Awdry only), the chance to view artefacts from the Awdry family archive, plus an exclusive VIP gift bag.

Railway History Told by Posters Speaker - Michael Willmott Thursday 16 July 2026 From the earliest days of rail travel, poster advertising was used to encourage people to take the train. Through the artwork of, and captions on, such posters we can catch a glimpse of not just the advances in engineering and in design, but also the contemporary social concerns addressed in the advertising slogans. Even if you are not so interested in the history there is much to admire in the work of a glittering array of artists and poster designers stretching over a 200-year period. All presentations are held in the Roundhouse lecture theatre commencing at 19.30 and finishing between 21.45 and 22.00. Doors open at 19.00. Entry is via the Commercial entrance (electric gate), which is open between approximately 19.00 and 19.25 to allow a prompt start at 19.30. Presentations are held on the third Thursday of every month unless otherwise indicated. Hot and cold drinks are available from the buffet before 19.30 and during the interval. Admission is normally £3.00 for members and £5.00 for non-members. Free parking on site. Barrow Hill Roundhouse

Viaduct Tunnel Signal Speaker - Gavin Lake Thursday 20 August 2026 British Railways had - and still has - some outstanding viaduct, tunnel and signalling structures. This presentation takes a nationwide journey viewing some of the great classics with modern traction included. We travel from Harringworth to Saltash, Severn Tunnel to Box and Syston to Wrawby plus many, many more. All presentations are held in the Roundhouse lecture theatre commencing at 19.30 and finishing between 21.45 and 22.00. Doors open at 19.00. Entry is via the Commercial entrance (electric gate), which is open between approximately 19.00 and 19.25 to allow a prompt start at 19.30. Presentations are held on the third Thursday of every month unless otherwise indicated. Hot and cold drinks are available from the buffet before 19.30 and during the interval. Admission is normally £3.00 for members and £5.00 for non-members. Free parking on site. Barrow Hill Roundhouse

North Eastern Railway Association Lecture Series Hopetown Darlington is pleased to welcome the North Eastern Railway Association (NER) with their programme of fascinating talks. These lectures focus on a range of railway topics, and include relevant artifacts and resources (if available) and a Q&A session. Saturday 6 June - 'A Ride to Richmond' by Les Cairnes An illustrated talk on the railway from Darlington to Richmond, showing the stations, signal cabins, crossings and buildings along the route, as well as adverts for the services over time. Les will also cover the branch railway up to Catterick Camp, which conveyed soldiers and military equipment. Saturday 5 September - 'Teesdale Tracks and Derailed Dukes' by Chris Lloyd Chris is well-known as Features Editor of the Northern Echo. He will describe the rise and fall of Teesdale's railways: how the dale's most powerful landowner went to dastardly lengths to prevent railways from arriving, yet when they came, they were the most extraordinary lines anywhere in the world over the wildest of terrain and the most stupendous of viaducts. These lectures will be recorded and avaiable to view in the NER members area. Hopetown, Darlington

Penzance - Paddington Part 4: Exeter - ? Speaker - Richard Binding Thursday 17 September 2026 Featuring steam and diesel traction from the 1890s to 2000s, broad gauge to HST - no Hitachi IETs or Voyagers to be seen. As well as the varied motive power we will look at the structures and signalling. The journey continues from Exeter towards London, including Kingswear and Ilfracombe. All presentations are held in the Roundhouse lecture theatre commencing at 19.30 and finishing between 21.45 and 22.00. Doors open at 19.00. Entry is via the Commercial entrance (electric gate), which is open between approximately 19.00 and 19.25 to allow a prompt start at 19.30. Presentations are held on the third Thursday of every month unless otherwise indicated. Hot and cold drinks are available from the buffet before 19.30 and during the interval. Admission is normally £3.00 for members and £5.00 for non-members. Free parking on site. Barrow Hill Roundhouse

Michael Portillo - A Life of Two Halves Cliffs Pavilion, Southend Tuesday 6 October 2026 Talk This show has an interval Secretary of State. Traveller. TV superstar. The inimitable Michael Portillo joins us live on stage to share funny, insightful, and poignant stories from his extraordinarily rich and varied life. The son of a refugee who rose to become one of Britain's leading politicians and best loved broadcasters, Michael Portillo's life has been a game of two halves. As a statesman he served under Margaret Thatcher, ran for the leadership of the Conservative Party, and lost his seat in one of the most famous moments in British political history, only to become one of the nation's favourite broadcasters, sparring with Diane Abbott and Andrew O'Neill and enthralling millions of us with his travels on the world's greatest railways. In this unique stage show, Michael will share his life story, from his late father's experiences of the Spanish Civil War and escape to England, where he and Michael's mother met while looking after refugee children, all the way to his present-day adventures travelling across Spain, the USA, India, and beyond. We'll hear Michael's funny and insightful observations about his old boss Margaret Thatcher and his reflections on the decay of political power. He'll tell us about his break into TV - including the time he became a single mum? And, of course, we'll hear about the great railway journeys he has undertaken and what they can tell us about the history and state of the world today. Whether you are passionate about politics or a fan of Michael's many international adventures, this is an unmissable treat. All aboard!

Michael Portillo - A Life of Two Halves The Dome, Doncaster Friday 9 October 2026 Talk This show has an interval Secretary of State. Traveller. TV superstar. The inimitable Michael Portillo joins us live on stage to share funny, insightful, and poignant stories from his extraordinarily rich and varied life. The son of a refugee who rose to become one of Britain's leading politicians and best loved broadcasters, Michael Portillo's life has been a game of two halves. As a statesman he served under Margaret Thatcher, ran for the leadership of the Conservative Party, and lost his seat in one of the most famous moments in British political history, only to become one of the nation's favourite broadcasters, sparring with Diane Abbott and Andrew O'Neill and enthralling millions of us with his travels on the world's greatest railways. In this unique stage show, Michael will share his life story, from his late father's experiences of the Spanish Civil War and escape to England, where he and Michael's mother met while looking after refugee children, all the way to his present-day adventures travelling across Spain, the USA, India, and beyond. We'll hear Michael's funny and insightful observations about his old boss Margaret Thatcher and his reflections on the decay of political power. He'll tell us about his break into TV - including the time he became a single mum? And, of course, we'll hear about the great railway journeys he has undertaken and what they can tell us about the history and state of the world today. Whether you are passionate about politics or a fan of Michael's many international adventures, this is an unmissable treat. All aboard!

Crewe in Steam Days Speaker - Steve Armitage Thursday 15 October 2026 Lots of previously unseen gems from Victorian times onwards. North and South Sheds, Crewe Works and of course action in and around the station. All presentations are held in the Roundhouse lecture theatre commencing at 19.30 and finishing between 21.45 and 22.00. Doors open at 19.00. Entry is via the Commercial entrance (electric gate), which is open between approximately 19.00 and 19.25 to allow a prompt start at 19.30. Presentations are held on the third Thursday of every month unless otherwise indicated. Hot and cold drinks are available from the buffet before 19.30 and during the interval. Admission is normally £3.00 for members and £5.00 for non-members. Free parking on site. Barrow Hill Roundhouse

Michael Portillo - A Life of Two Halves Regent Theatre, Ipswich Tuesday 20 October 2026 Talk This show has an interval Secretary of State. Traveller. TV superstar. The inimitable Michael Portillo joins us live on stage to share funny, insightful, and poignant stories from his extraordinarily rich and varied life. The son of a refugee who rose to become one of Britain's leading politicians and best loved broadcasters, Michael Portillo's life has been a game of two halves. As a statesman he served under Margaret Thatcher, ran for the leadership of the Conservative Party, and lost his seat in one of the most famous moments in British political history, only to become one of the nation's favourite broadcasters, sparring with Diane Abbott and Andrew O'Neill and enthralling millions of us with his travels on the world's greatest railways. In this unique stage show, Michael will share his life story, from his late father's experiences of the Spanish Civil War and escape to England, where he and Michael's mother met while looking after refugee children, all the way to his present-day adventures travelling across Spain, the USA, India, and beyond. We'll hear Michael's funny and insightful observations about his old boss Margaret Thatcher and his reflections on the decay of political power. He'll tell us about his break into TV - including the time he became a single mum? And, of course, we'll hear about the great railway journeys he has undertaken and what they can tell us about the history and state of the world today. Whether you are passionate about politics or a fan of Michael's many international adventures, this is an unmissable treat. All aboard!

Michael Portillo - A Life of Two Halves New Theatre, Peterborough Wednesday, 21 October 2026 Talk This show has an interval Secretary of State. Traveller. TV superstar. The inimitable Michael Portillo joins us live on stage to share funny, insightful, and poignant stories from his extraordinarily rich and varied life. The son of a refugee who rose to become one of Britain's leading politicians and best loved broadcasters, Michael Portillo's life has been a game of two halves. As a statesman he served under Margaret Thatcher, ran for the leadership of the Conservative Party, and lost his seat in one of the most famous moments in British political history, only to become one of the nation's favourite broadcasters, sparring with Diane Abbott and Andrew O'Neill and enthralling millions of us with his travels on the world's greatest railways. In this unique stage show, Michael will share his life story, from his late father's experiences of the Spanish Civil War and escape to England, where he and Michael's mother met while looking after refugee children, all the way to his present-day adventures travelling across Spain, the USA, India, and beyond. We'll hear Michael's funny and insightful observations about his old boss Margaret Thatcher and his reflections on the decay of political power. He'll tell us about his break into TV - including the time he became a single mum? And, of course, we'll hear about the great railway journeys he has undertaken and what they can tell us about the history and state of the world today. Whether you are passionate about politics or a fan of Michael's many international adventures, this is an unmissable treat. All aboard!

Michael Portillo - A Life of Two Halves Royal & Derngate Theatre, Northampton Thursday 22 October 2026 Talk This show has an interval Secretary of State. Traveller. TV superstar. The inimitable Michael Portillo joins us live on stage to share funny, insightful, and poignant stories from his extraordinarily rich and varied life. The son of a refugee who rose to become one of Britain's leading politicians and best loved broadcasters, Michael Portillo's life has been a game of two halves. As a statesman he served under Margaret Thatcher, ran for the leadership of the Conservative Party, and lost his seat in one of the most famous moments in British political history, only to become one of the nation's favourite broadcasters, sparring with Diane Abbott and Andrew O'Neill and enthralling millions of us with his travels on the world's greatest railways. In this unique stage show, Michael will share his life story, from his late father's experiences of the Spanish Civil War and escape to England, where he and Michael's mother met while looking after refugee children, all the way to his present-day adventures travelling across Spain, the USA, India, and beyond. We'll hear Michael's funny and insightful observations about his old boss Margaret Thatcher and his reflections on the decay of political power. He'll tell us about his break into TV - including the time he became a single mum? And, of course, we'll hear about the great railway journeys he has undertaken and what they can tell us about the history and state of the world today. Whether you are passionate about politics or a fan of Michael's many international adventures, this is an unmissable treat. All aboard!

Michael Portillo - A Life of Two Halves Royal Concert Hall, Nottingham Saturday 24 October 2026 Talk This show has an interval Secretary of State. Traveller. TV superstar. The inimitable Michael Portillo joins us live on stage to share funny, insightful, and poignant stories from his extraordinarily rich and varied life. The son of a refugee who rose to become one of Britain's leading politicians and best loved broadcasters, Michael Portillo's life has been a game of two halves. As a statesman he served under Margaret Thatcher, ran for the leadership of the Conservative Party, and lost his seat in one of the most famous moments in British political history, only to become one of the nation's favourite broadcasters, sparring with Diane Abbott and Andrew O'Neill and enthralling millions of us with his travels on the world's greatest railways. In this unique stage show, Michael will share his life story, from his late father's experiences of the Spanish Civil War and escape to England, where he and Michael's mother met while looking after refugee children, all the way to his present-day adventures travelling across Spain, the USA, India, and beyond. We'll hear Michael's funny and insightful observations about his old boss Margaret Thatcher and his reflections on the decay of political power. He'll tell us about his break into TV - including the time he became a single mum? And, of course, we'll hear about the great railway journeys he has undertaken and what they can tell us about the history and state of the world today. Whether you are passionate about politics or a fan of Michael's many international adventures, this is an unmissable treat. All aboard!

Michael Portillo - A Life of Two Halves Anvil Arts, Basingstoke Tuesday 27 October 2026 Talk This show has an interval Secretary of State. Traveller. TV superstar. The inimitable Michael Portillo joins us live on stage to share funny, insightful, and poignant stories from his extraordinarily rich and varied life. The son of a refugee who rose to become one of Britain's leading politicians and best loved broadcasters, Michael Portillo's life has been a game of two halves. As a statesman he served under Margaret Thatcher, ran for the leadership of the Conservative Party, and lost his seat in one of the most famous moments in British political history, only to become one of the nation's favourite broadcasters, sparring with Diane Abbott and Andrew O'Neill and enthralling millions of us with his travels on the world's greatest railways. In this unique stage show, Michael will share his life story, from his late father's experiences of the Spanish Civil War and escape to England, where he and Michael's mother met while looking after refugee children, all the way to his present-day adventures travelling across Spain, the USA, India, and beyond. We'll hear Michael's funny and insightful observations about his old boss Margaret Thatcher and his reflections on the decay of political power. He'll tell us about his break into TV - including the time he became a single mum? And, of course, we'll hear about the great railway journeys he has undertaken and what they can tell us about the history and state of the world today. Whether you are passionate about politics or a fan of Michael's many international adventures, this is an unmissable treat. All aboard!

Michael Portillo - A Life of Two Halves G Live, Guildford Wednesday 28 October 2026 Talk This show has an interval Secretary of State. Traveller. TV superstar. The inimitable Michael Portillo joins us live on stage to share funny, insightful, and poignant stories from his extraordinarily rich and varied life. The son of a refugee who rose to become one of Britain's leading politicians and best loved broadcasters, Michael Portillo's life has been a game of two halves. As a statesman he served under Margaret Thatcher, ran for the leadership of the Conservative Party, and lost his seat in one of the most famous moments in British political history, only to become one of the nation's favourite broadcasters, sparring with Diane Abbott and Andrew O'Neill and enthralling millions of us with his travels on the world's greatest railways. In this unique stage show, Michael will share his life story, from his late father's experiences of the Spanish Civil War and escape to England, where he and Michael's mother met while looking after refugee children, all the way to his present-day adventures travelling across Spain, the USA, India, and beyond. We'll hear Michael's funny and insightful observations about his old boss Margaret Thatcher and his reflections on the decay of political power. He'll tell us about his break into TV - including the time he became a single mum? And, of course, we'll hear about the great railway journeys he has undertaken and what they can tell us about the history and state of the world today. Whether you are passionate about politics or a fan of Michael's many international adventures, this is an unmissable treat. All aboard!

Michael Portillo - A Life of Two Halves Liverpool Philarmonic Hall Tuesday 3 November 2026 Talk This show has an interval Secretary of State. Traveller. TV superstar. The inimitable Michael Portillo joins us live on stage to share funny, insightful, and poignant stories from his extraordinarily rich and varied life. The son of a refugee who rose to become one of Britain's leading politicians and best loved broadcasters, Michael Portillo's life has been a game of two halves. As a statesman he served under Margaret Thatcher, ran for the leadership of the Conservative Party, and lost his seat in one of the most famous moments in British political history, only to become one of the nation's favourite broadcasters, sparring with Diane Abbott and Andrew O'Neill and enthralling millions of us with his travels on the world's greatest railways. In this unique stage show, Michael will share his life story, from his late father's experiences of the Spanish Civil War and escape to England, where he and Michael's mother met while looking after refugee children, all the way to his present-day adventures travelling across Spain, the USA, India, and beyond. We'll hear Michael's funny and insightful observations about his old boss Margaret Thatcher and his reflections on the decay of political power. He'll tell us about his break into TV - including the time he became a single mum? And, of course, we'll hear about the great railway journeys he has undertaken and what they can tell us about the history and state of the world today. Whether you are passionate about politics or a fan of Michael's many international adventures, this is an unmissable treat. All aboard!

Michael Portillo - A Life of Two Halves Royal Hall, Harrogate Wednesday 4 November 2026 Talk This show has an interval Secretary of State. Traveller. TV superstar. The inimitable Michael Portillo joins us live on stage to share funny, insightful, and poignant stories from his extraordinarily rich and varied life. The son of a refugee who rose to become one of Britain's leading politicians and best loved broadcasters, Michael Portillo's life has been a game of two halves. As a statesman he served under Margaret Thatcher, ran for the leadership of the Conservative Party, and lost his seat in one of the most famous moments in British political history, only to become one of the nation's favourite broadcasters, sparring with Diane Abbott and Andrew O'Neill and enthralling millions of us with his travels on the world's greatest railways. In this unique stage show, Michael will share his life story, from his late father's experiences of the Spanish Civil War and escape to England, where he and Michael's mother met while looking after refugee children, all the way to his present-day adventures travelling across Spain, the USA, India, and beyond. We'll hear Michael's funny and insightful observations about his old boss Margaret Thatcher and his reflections on the decay of political power. He'll tell us about his break into TV - including the time he became a single mum? And, of course, we'll hear about the great railway journeys he has undertaken and what they can tell us about the history and state of the world today. Whether you are passionate about politics or a fan of Michael's many international adventures, this is an unmissable treat. All aboard!

Michael Portillo - A Life of Two Halves Usher Hall, Edinburgh Thursday 5 November 2026 Talk This show has an interval Secretary of State. Traveller. TV superstar. The inimitable Michael Portillo joins us live on stage to share funny, insightful, and poignant stories from his extraordinarily rich and varied life. The son of a refugee who rose to become one of Britain's leading politicians and best loved broadcasters, Michael Portillo's life has been a game of two halves. As a statesman he served under Margaret Thatcher, ran for the leadership of the Conservative Party, and lost his seat in one of the most famous moments in British political history, only to become one of the nation's favourite broadcasters, sparring with Diane Abbott and Andrew O'Neill and enthralling millions of us with his travels on the world's greatest railways. In this unique stage show, Michael will share his life story, from his late father's experiences of the Spanish Civil War and escape to England, where he and Michael's mother met while looking after refugee children, all the way to his present-day adventures travelling across Spain, the USA, India, and beyond. We'll hear Michael's funny and insightful observations about his old boss Margaret Thatcher and his reflections on the decay of political power. He'll tell us about his break into TV - including the time he became a single mum? And, of course, we'll hear about the great railway journeys he has undertaken and what they can tell us about the history and state of the world today. Whether you are passionate about politics or a fan of Michael's many international adventures, this is an unmissable treat. All aboard!

Michael Portillo - A Life of Two Halves Portsmouth Guildhall, Portsmouth Wednesdday 11 November 2026 Talk This show has an interval Secretary of State. Traveller. TV superstar. The inimitable Michael Portillo joins us live on stage to share funny, insightful, and poignant stories from his extraordinarily rich and varied life. The son of a refugee who rose to become one of Britain's leading politicians and best loved broadcasters, Michael Portillo's life has been a game of two halves. As a statesman he served under Margaret Thatcher, ran for the leadership of the Conservative Party, and lost his seat in one of the most famous moments in British political history, only to become one of the nation's favourite broadcasters, sparring with Diane Abbott and Andrew O'Neill and enthralling millions of us with his travels on the world's greatest railways. In this unique stage show, Michael will share his life story, from his late father's experiences of the Spanish Civil War and escape to England, where he and Michael's mother met while looking after refugee children, all the way to his present-day adventures travelling across Spain, the USA, India, and beyond. We'll hear Michael's funny and insightful observations about his old boss Margaret Thatcher and his reflections on the decay of political power. He'll tell us about his break into TV - including the time he became a single mum? And, of course, we'll hear about the great railway journeys he has undertaken and what they can tell us about the history and state of the world today. Whether you are passionate about politics or a fan of Michael's many international adventures, this is an unmissable treat. All aboard!

Michael Portillo - A Life of Two Halves The Great Hall, Exeter Thursday 12 November 2026 Talk This show has an interval Secretary of State. Traveller. TV superstar. The inimitable Michael Portillo joins us live on stage to share funny, insightful, and poignant stories from his extraordinarily rich and varied life. The son of a refugee who rose to become one of Britain's leading politicians and best loved broadcasters, Michael Portillo's life has been a game of two halves. As a statesman he served under Margaret Thatcher, ran for the leadership of the Conservative Party, and lost his seat in one of the most famous moments in British political history, only to become one of the nation's favourite broadcasters, sparring with Diane Abbott and Andrew O'Neill and enthralling millions of us with his travels on the world's greatest railways. In this unique stage show, Michael will share his life story, from his late father's experiences of the Spanish Civil War and escape to England, where he and Michael's mother met while looking after refugee children, all the way to his present-day adventures travelling across Spain, the USA, India, and beyond. We'll hear Michael's funny and insightful observations about his old boss Margaret Thatcher and his reflections on the decay of political power. He'll tell us about his break into TV - including the time he became a single mum? And, of course, we'll hear about the great railway journeys he has undertaken and what they can tell us about the history and state of the world today. Whether you are passionate about politics or a fan of Michael's many international adventures, this is an unmissable treat. All aboard!

Michael Portillo - A Life of Two Halves Hall for Cornwall, Truro Friday 13 November 2026 Talk This show has an interval Secretary of State. Traveller. TV superstar. The inimitable Michael Portillo joins us live on stage to share funny, insightful, and poignant stories from his extraordinarily rich and varied life. The son of a refugee who rose to become one of Britain's leading politicians and best loved broadcasters, Michael Portillo's life has been a game of two halves. As a statesman he served under Margaret Thatcher, ran for the leadership of the Conservative Party, and lost his seat in one of the most famous moments in British political history, only to become one of the nation's favourite broadcasters, sparring with Diane Abbott and Andrew O'Neill and enthralling millions of us with his travels on the world's greatest railways. In this unique stage show, Michael will share his life story, from his late father's experiences of the Spanish Civil War and escape to England, where he and Michael's mother met while looking after refugee children, all the way to his present-day adventures travelling across Spain, the USA, India, and beyond. We'll hear Michael's funny and insightful observations about his old boss Margaret Thatcher and his reflections on the decay of political power. He'll tell us about his break into TV - including the time he became a single mum? And, of course, we'll hear about the great railway journeys he has undertaken and what they can tell us about the history and state of the world today. Whether you are passionate about politics or a fan of Michael's many international adventures, this is an unmissable treat. All aboard!

Michael Portillo - A Life of Two Halves Concert Hall Lighthouse, Poole Saturday 14 November 2026 Talk This show has an interval Secretary of State. Traveller. TV superstar. The inimitable Michael Portillo joins us live on stage to share funny, insightful, and poignant stories from his extraordinarily rich and varied life. The son of a refugee who rose to become one of Britain's leading politicians and best loved broadcasters, Michael Portillo's life has been a game of two halves. As a statesman he served under Margaret Thatcher, ran for the leadership of the Conservative Party, and lost his seat in one of the most famous moments in British political history, only to become one of the nation's favourite broadcasters, sparring with Diane Abbott and Andrew O'Neill and enthralling millions of us with his travels on the world's greatest railways. In this unique stage show, Michael will share his life story, from his late father's experiences of the Spanish Civil War and escape to England, where he and Michael's mother met while looking after refugee children, all the way to his present-day adventures travelling across Spain, the USA, India, and beyond. We'll hear Michael's funny and insightful observations about his old boss Margaret Thatcher and his reflections on the decay of political power. He'll tell us about his break into TV - including the time he became a single mum? And, of course, we'll hear about the great railway journeys he has undertaken and what they can tell us about the history and state of the world today. Whether you are passionate about politics or a fan of Michael's many international adventures, this is an unmissable treat. All aboard!

Michael Portillo - A Life of Two Halves Symphony Hall, Birmingham Wednesday 18 November 2026 Talk This show has an interval Secretary of State. Traveller. TV superstar. The inimitable Michael Portillo joins us live on stage to share funny, insightful, and poignant stories from his extraordinarily rich and varied life. The son of a refugee who rose to become one of Britain's leading politicians and best loved broadcasters, Michael Portillo's life has been a game of two halves. As a statesman he served under Margaret Thatcher, ran for the leadership of the Conservative Party, and lost his seat in one of the most famous moments in British political history, only to become one of the nation's favourite broadcasters, sparring with Diane Abbott and Andrew O'Neill and enthralling millions of us with his travels on the world's greatest railways. In this unique stage show, Michael will share his life story, from his late father's experiences of the Spanish Civil War and escape to England, where he and Michael's mother met while looking after refugee children, all the way to his present-day adventures travelling across Spain, the USA, India, and beyond. We'll hear Michael's funny and insightful observations about his old boss Margaret Thatcher and his reflections on the decay of political power. He'll tell us about his break into TV - including the time he became a single mum? And, of course, we'll hear about the great railway journeys he has undertaken and what they can tell us about the history and state of the world today. Whether you are passionate about politics or a fan of Michael's many international adventures, this is an unmissable treat. All aboard!

More Outings From Platform 5 Speaker - Robert Pritchard Thursday 19 November 2026 Highlights from up and down the UK (mainly) featuring new trains and old, including behind-the-scenes at depots, plus a few from around Europe including Denmark, Italy, Czech Republic, France and Russia, during the period 2017-2019. All presentations are held in the Roundhouse lecture theatre commencing at 19.30 and finishing between 21.45 and 22.00. Doors open at 19.00. Entry is via the Commercial entrance (electric gate), which is open between approximately 19.00 and 19.25 to allow a prompt start at 19.30. Presentations are held on the third Thursday of every month unless otherwise indicated. Hot and cold drinks are available from the buffet before 19.30 and during the interval. Admission is normally £3.00 for members and £5.00 for non-members. Free parking on site. Barrow Hill Roundhouse

Michael Portillo - A Life of Two Halves Congress Theatre, Eastbourne 19:30 Tuesday 24 November 2026 Talk This show has an interval Secretary of State. Traveller. TV superstar. The inimitable Michael Portillo joins us live on stage to share funny, insightful, and poignant stories from his extraordinarily rich and varied life. The son of a refugee who rose to become one of Britain's leading politicians and best loved broadcasters, Michael Portillo's life has been a game of two halves. As a statesman he served under Margaret Thatcher, ran for the leadership of the Conservative Party, and lost his seat in one of the most famous moments in British political history, only to become one of the nation's favourite broadcasters, sparring with Diane Abbott and Andrew O'Neill and enthralling millions of us with his travels on the world's greatest railways. In this unique stage show, Michael will share his life story, from his late father's experiences of the Spanish Civil War and escape to England, where he and Michael's mother met while looking after refugee children, all the way to his present-day adventures travelling across Spain, the USA, India, and beyond. We'll hear Michael's funny and insightful observations about his old boss Margaret Thatcher and his reflections on the decay of political power. He'll tell us about his break into TV - including the time he became a single mum? And, of course, we'll hear about the great railway journeys he has undertaken and what they can tell us about the history and state of the world today. Whether you are passionate about politics or a fan of Michael's many international adventures, this is an unmissable treat. All aboard!

Christmas Social Speakers - Alexa Stott and Mervyn Allcock Thursday 10 December 2026 Review of the year by Alexa Stott and Mervyn Allcock, entertainment and pea and pie supper. All presentations are held in the Roundhouse lecture theatre commencing at 19.30 and finishing between 21.45 and 22.00. Doors open at 19.00. Entry is via the Commercial entrance (electric gate), which is open between approximately 19.00 and 19.25 to allow a prompt start at 19.30. Presentations are held on the third Thursday of every month unless otherwise indicated. Hot and cold drinks are available from the buffet before 19.30 and during the interval. Admission is normally £3.00 for members and £5.00 for non-members. Free parking on site. Barrow Hill Roundhouse