Great Western Railway has announced its sponsorship of Great Escapes, a new podcast series that sets out to spotlight some of the UK’s most intriguing and lesser-known destinations. The show takes listeners from windswept coasts to underground caverns, meeting the people who help bring these places to life.

Fronted by comedians and actors Isy Suttie and Dan Skinner, the series mixes travel storytelling with light-hearted humour as the pair head out on separate journeys before regrouping to compare what they’ve uncovered. The format offers two contrasting perspectives on each destination, combining local tales, unusual encounters and spontaneous moments that emerge along the way.

Episodes range from wild swimming off the Pembrokeshire coast to exploring historic prisons, feeding giraffes, wandering through caves and trying the delights of a Babycham factory. Listeners can expect a blend of folklore, food, outdoor adventure and the kind of quirky experiences that make certain corners of the UK memorable. The first three episodes are already available, with weekly instalments arriving across major podcast platforms.

Reflecting on the project, Isy Suttie said:

“It’s been a dream project – meeting brilliant people in these amazing places and finding the humour in the unexpected. From exploring the world’s most haunted prison in Shepton Mallet to feeding giraffes in Pembrokeshire, we’ve seen sides of Britain we never knew existed.”

Dan Skinner added:

“I’ve been in caves, inside the Babycham factory and in some very cold seas – but what’s really stayed with me is the people. The locals we’ve met have revealed what these places are really about, and every stop has surprised us in a different way.”

GWR’s Head of External Communications, Dan Panes, said:

“We’re so excited to have teamed up with Isy and Dan on Great Escapes. Their curiosity, humour and warmth capture the best of our region – its people, places and sense of adventure. It’s a real celebration of the South West and Wales and a source of inspiration for people planning their own trips in the region.”

Image: Great Western Railway