8.6 / 10 (based on 60 reviews)
Genre: Documentary
Main Cast: Kevin McCloud, Giovanni Giaconi
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1 season, 4 episodes
Shows Most Like Kevin McCloud’s Grand Tour of Europe (2009)
Kevin McCloud’s Rough Guide to the Future (2020)
6.8 / 10 (based on 20 reviews)
Kevin McCloud is passionately optimistic about technology and the future, but Jon Richardson, Phil Wang and Alice Levine aren’t so sure. Can Kevin persuade his trio of sceptics to see the light?
Genre: Documentary
Main Cast: Kevin McCloud, Jon Richardson, Phil Wang, Alice Levine
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1 season, 3 episodes
Kevin McCloud’s Escape to the Wild (2015)
7.6 / 10 (based on 136 reviews)
Explores modern people living ‘off the grid’, escaping the rigours of western society in varied landscapes to find peace and happiness.
Genre: Documentary
Main Cast: Kevin McCloud
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1 season, 4 episodes
Kevin McCloud’s Man Made Home (2012)
7.3 / 10 (based on 109 reviews)
Documentary series in which Kevin McCloud buys himself a spectacular piece of woodland, gets his hands dirty and builds a cabin in the woods to establish whether a simple life can make us happier.
Genre: Documentary
Main Cast: Kevin McCloud, Sidney Alford
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2 seasons, 8 episodes
Meet the Richardsons (2020)
7.3 / 10 (based on 722 reviews)
Mockumentary focusing on real-life comedy couple Jon Richardson and Lucy Beaumont, who play aptly fictionalised versions of themselves, their home and work lives, and relationships with their Hebden Bridge neighbours and celebrity friends.
Genre: Comedy
Main Cast: Lucy Beaumont, Jon Richardson, Damion Priestley, Emma Priestley
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3 seasons, 27 episodes, 40.0-minute runtime
In 2009, Kevin McCloud embarked on an ambitious journey across Europe, tracing the steps of the British aristocrats of the 18th century on their Grand Tour. This journey was not just about sightseeing but about absorbing culture, art, and architecture that would later influence the British aesthetic. “Kevin McCloud’s Grand Tour of Europe” is a series that not only revisits these historic paths but also delves into the experiences, the learning, and the sheer grandeur of what the Grand Tour represented. This article explores the essence of the series, highlighting its unique approach to travel, history, and architecture.
The Premise
At its core, the series is a travelogue. However, calling it just that would be an oversimplification. Kevin McCloud, known for his work on “Grand Designs,” brings his keen eye for architecture and design to the forefront as he travels across Europe. The journey takes him through France, Italy, Greece, and Germany, among other countries, tracing the routes taken by young British aristocrats of the past.
The Historical Context
The Grand Tour was more than a leisure trip; it was a rite of passage. From the mid-17th century to the late 18th century, it was customary for young men of means to travel across Europe as a way of completing their education. They immersed themselves in the art, culture, and politics of the European continent, bringing back knowledge and artifacts that would shape British culture and society.
The Architectural Lens
McCloud’s perspective as an architect adds a rich layer to the series. He doesn’t just show us buildings; he unpacks their significance. For example, when visiting the Pantheon in Rome, McCloud doesn’t stop at admiring its beauty. He dives into its construction, the innovation of its dome, and how it influenced British architecture. This architectural lens allows viewers to appreciate these historical sites beyond their aesthetic value.
The Cultural Exploration
The series also shines in its exploration of culture. McCloud doesn’t just observe; he participates. Whether it’s trying his hand at Venetian plasterwork or engaging in a philosophical discussion in Greece, he immerses himself in the cultural practices that would have shaped the experiences of the original Grand Tourists. This approach brings a sense of authenticity and engagement to the series that sets it apart from other travel documentaries.
The Personal Anecdotes
What makes the series truly engaging are McCloud’s personal reflections. He often draws parallels between his experiences and those of the Grand Tourists. For instance, in Venice, he muses on the allure of the city, both in the 18th century and now, and what it teaches us about beauty and decay. These moments of introspection add depth to the series, making it not just a journey through Europe, but a journey of understanding.
The Educational Value
“Kevin McCloud’s Grand Tour of Europe” is immensely educational. Each episode is packed with historical facts, architectural insights, and cultural observations. However, the information is presented in a way that’s accessible and engaging. McCloud has a knack for explaining complex concepts in simple terms, making the series a valuable resource for anyone interested in architecture, history, or travel.
The Visuals
No discussion of the series would be complete without mentioning its visuals. The cinematography is stunning, capturing the beauty of the European landscape, the grandeur of its architecture, and the vibrancy of its culture. The visuals complement McCloud’s narration, making the series a feast for the eyes as well as the mind.
The Impact
The series does more than entertain; it inspires. It encourages viewers to look at architecture not just as buildings but as a reflection of history, culture, and human ambition. It also reignites the spirit of the Grand Tour, the idea of travel as a form of education and personal growth. For many, it has sparked a desire to explore, to see the world through a more curious and informed lens.
The Critique
No series is without its critiques. Some viewers have pointed out that the focus on architecture and history might come at the expense of exploring the modern-day culture of the places visited. Others have noted that McCloud’s reflections, while insightful, can sometimes veer into the realm of the personal, overshadowing the broader narrative. However, these critiques are minor compared to the overall value of the series.
Conclusion
“Kevin McCloud’s Grand Tour of Europe” is a series that transcends the travel genre. It’s a thoughtful exploration of history, architecture, and culture, seen through the eyes of a passionate and knowledgeable host. It not only educates but also inspires, reminding us of the value of travel, not just as a leisure activity but as a means of understanding the world and our place in it. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone who loves to travel, this series offers something of value. It’s a reminder of the beauty, complexity, and interconnectedness of our world, seen through the lens of the past but very much relevant in the present.