Mike Smith
Here’s everything you need to know about Tom Read Wilson’s Magnificent Journey, a new Channel 5 travel series starring Tom Read Wilson that reimagines the historic Grand Tour across Europe.
How to watch Tom Read Wilson’s Magnificent Journey in Australia on Channel 5
To watch Tom Read Wilson’s Magnificent Journey in Australia, connect to a reliable VPN and choose a UK server to access Channel 5’s streaming platform 5. Once connected, visit the 5 website and stream full episodes online.
- Subscribe to NordVPN
- Install the VPN app on your device.
- Connect to a UK-based server.
- Open Channel 5 website, then login or sign up for a new account. A UK postal code is required for registration. You can use a UK postcode generator if needed.
- You are all set to watch Tom Read Wilson’s Magnificent Journey series!
Tom Read Wilson’s Magnificent Journey Synopsis
Tom Read Wilson’s Magnificent Journey is a 2026 TV mini series that follows broadcaster and social historian Tom Read Wilson as he recreates the historic Grand Tour once undertaken by young European aristocrats in the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries. Now approaching forty and seeking deeper cultural perspective, Tom sets out across Europe with curiosity, humour, and a passion for classical learning, retracing the formative journeys that shaped generations of artists, thinkers, and leaders.
Beginning in Paris, Tom immerses himself in aristocratic etiquette under the guidance of a Parisian contessa with ancestral links to Marie Antoinette, exploring how refinement, manners, and education once defined elite society. Accompanied by his modern-day tutor Sophie, he visits iconic landmarks such as Notre Dame and the Gardens of Versailles, uncovering the traditions, excesses, and philosophies that made these destinations central to the Grand Tour. Along the way, Tom witnesses historic demonstrations of fencing, horsemanship, and archery, discovering both the discipline and delight behind skills once considered essential to a cultured life.
As the journey continues south, Tom travels by horse-drawn carriage and rail to Lake Annecy, staying in lodgings once favoured by Grand Tour travellers before braving a dramatic crossing of the Alps. The series blends travel documentary, social history, and personal reflection, capturing Tom’s transformation as he reconnects with art, architecture, and the enduring joy of lifelong education across Europe.
When Does Tom Read Wilson’s Magnificent Journey Premiere?
Tom Read Wilson’s Magnificent Journey premieres on Friday January 2, 2026 at 8:00 PM on Channel 5, with the first episode airing as part of the channel’s prime-time factual lineup.
Tom Read Wilson’s Magnificent Journey Season 1 Episodes
Season 1 consists of three episodes:
- Episode 1 – Premiere date: January 2, 2026
Tom begins his journey in Paris, learning aristocratic etiquette from a Parisian contessa while exploring cultural landmarks such as Notre Dame and the Gardens of Versailles. - Episode 2
Travelling south, Tom reaches Lake Annecy, stays in historic Grand Tour lodgings, and reflects on how travel shaped elite European identity. - Episode 3
Tom undertakes a perilous Alpine crossing, confronting the physical and emotional challenges faced by historical travellers as his journey nears its conclusion.
Who is Tom Read Wilson?
Tom Read Wilson is a British television presenter, writer, and social historian best known for his work on factual and travel documentaries. He has built a reputation for combining classical education, etiquette, and cultural history with a warm, humorous presenting style, often exploring traditions of aristocracy, heritage, and European high society. In recent years, he has become particularly associated with history-led travel programmes that focus on learning, refinement, and the personal value of lifelong education.
Is Tom Read Wilson’s Magnificent Journey Suitable for All Ages?
The series is suitable for a broad audience, including families and younger viewers, as it focuses on travel, history, culture, and education. There is no strong language or adult content, making it appropriate for general viewing.
On What Devices Can You Watch Channel 5?
Channel 5 is accessible across a wide range of modern devices for live and on-demand viewing.
| Device Category | Supported Devices |
|---|---|
| Smart TVs | Samsung Smart TV, LG Smart TV, Android TV |
| Streaming Devices | Amazon Fire TV, Roku, Chromecast |
| Mobile Devices | iOS smartphones and tablets, Android smartphones and tablets |
| Computers | Windows PCs, macOS laptops and desktops |
| Gaming Consoles | PlayStation consoles |
FAQs
What inspired Tom Read Wilson to make this series?
The series was inspired by Tom’s fascination with classical education and the historic Grand Tour, which shaped European culture, art, and diplomacy for centuries.
Is the journey filmed in real historical locations?
Yes, the series is filmed on location across Europe, including Paris, Versailles, Lake Annecy, and Alpine routes used by historic travellers.
Who is the target audience for the series?
The show is designed for viewers interested in travel, European history, architecture, and cultural storytelling, appealing to both casual and academic audiences.
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings