The Lakes with Simon Reeve — Season 1

The adventurer explores the beautiful and unique landscapes of the Lake District, beginning by meeting Cumbrians with different visions for the future of England's biggest national park. He talks to members of a campaign group trying to protect the remaining red squirrels, a traditional farmer who feels that his ancient way of life is on the point of extinction, and an 18-year-old student who runs a 1,500-acre farm.

The adventurer explores the impact of humans on the Lake District, discovering that the high number of visitors to Scafell Pike is damaging England's highest peak and stretching the resources of mountain rescue volunteers. He goes wild swimming in the crystal clear lake of Buttermere, before taking a look at the less-fortunate Derwent Water, one of the many lakes now clogged with invasive New Zealand pygmyweed.

Simon Reeve comes to the end of his travels through the Lake District and Cumbria, exploring the rugged coast of Cumbria and learning how central the county is to many challenges facing Britain.