Introduction

Pack your bags for a rare inside look at the monarchy’s luxurious private planes and trains. Climb on board the “palace on wheels” and take to the skies for the five-star opulence of the Queen’s Flight.

You can find part two here.

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Outline

The British Royal Family is the most well-travelled monarchy in history. The Queen alone has been around the world 42 times, racking up over one million air miles. Secret of Royal Travel reveals the inside story of the monarchy on the move, taking viewers inside some of the most famous and exclusive transport in the world.

This two-part series opens the door to the private world of the Royal Train and the Royal Flight, each with its own mysterious traditions and protocols. It features a treasure trove of remarkable archival footage and interviews from the staff who drove the trains and flew the planes, as well as from those who cared for the Queen and her family in transit, offering a rare look into a world often hidden from public view.

Outline (Episode 01)

Climb aboard for an inside look at the history of the “palace on wheels,” from its lavish past as the royal “express of excess” to her Majesty Queen Elizabeth’s mobile home away from home.

This episode looks back at the Royal Train’s history, including a glimpse inside Queen Victoria’s luxurious railway cars commissioned in 1869. Resplendent with sumptuous satins, silks and 23-karat gold paint, Victoria’s train was outfitted with the latest modern conveniences, including the first-ever onboard toilet and electric lights.

The latest incarnation of the locomotive was presented to Queen Elizabeth for her Silver Jubilee in 1977. The Royal Train team offer unique insights into the tastes of the Queen, Prince Charles and the few select people allowed on board.

Production & Filming Details

• Director(s):
• Producer(s):
  • Rachel Ozers … series producer (1 episode, 2020).
  • Andrew Parkes … assistant producer (1 episode, 2020).
  • George Richardson … assistant producer (1 episode, 2020).
  • Oliver Tait … executive producer (1 episode, 2020).
• Music:
• Editor(s):
  • Paul Crosby … (1 episode, 2020).
  • Tom Pierce … (1 episode, 2020).
• Production: Lambent Production.
• Distributor(s): PBS (US) and Channel 5 (UK).
• Release Date: 15 November 2002 and 22 November 2020.
• Running Time: 60 minutes (per episode).
• Rating: PG.
• Country: US.
• Language: English.

Video Link