Éire & Taisteal

DocumentariesHistoricalEntertainmentTravel

This documentary series explores the history of travel and transport in Ireland. From the earliest roads to the bicycle, the horse and cart, through to the canals and the railway, the motor car and the aeroplane, the series tells the story of the evolution of travel. It uncovers stories from history, celebrates the engineers who took the first steps and the pioneers who led the way, while also exploring the fundamental human need to keep moving from place to place.

English G

▶  Watch now
Éire & Taisteal

Episode 5

S1 E5 44m

This episode explores the beginning of the 20th century, a period when Ireland and much of the world was undergoing enormous change. By 1903, there were already 1,500 cars registered in Ireland, and the country was at the forefront of motor racing. New and faster cars were being produced by manufacturers such as Bentley, Rolls-Royce and Daimler, while new laws and regulations governing road travel were being introduced. As the century unfolded, the First World War, the War of Independence and restrictions on movement would transform both Ireland and the way people travelled.

Éire & Taisteal

Episode 4

S1 E4 44m

In this episode we examine the history of roads in Ireland, which date back as far as the Iron Age. However, the people of rural Ireland also needed practical ways to travel. We follow the story from the innovations of the 18th-century inventor Richard Lovell Edgeworth, to the penny-farthing bicycle and the High Nelly of the 19th century, to Charles Bianconi who devised public transport and finally Henry Ford at the beginning of the 20th century.

Éire & Taisteal

Episode 3

S1 E3 44m

In this programme, we examine the Great Southern and Western Railway line from Dublin to Cork. Built between 1845 and 1849, it became the backbone of Ireland's railway network.

Éire & Taisteal

Episode 2

S1 E2 44m

This series follows the vast evolution of travel and transport in Ireland. In this programme, we explore the Grand Canal, which stretches from the heart of Dublin to the River Shannon - a ribbon of water that connects city and country.

Éire & Taisteal

Episode 1

S1 E1 45m

This series follows the vast evolution of travel and transport in Ireland, from early roads and canals to the arrival of trains, motorcars, air travel, and seafaring. In this episode we look at sea travel.