Susan Calman's Grand Day Out | Series 8 Preview (Channel 5)

Susan Calman enjoys a new crop of Grand Days Out on Channel 5. She’s behind the wheel of her classic little campervan, named in honour of one of her heroines, Helen Mirren, and sets out for more journeys of wonderful discovery.

On a joyous jaunt through some of Britain’s stunning sights, she’s set for wonderful views, heart-warming stories and colourful characters. The reliable little Helen pootles along as Susan explores new parts of the country, whilst re-discovering others, at her own leisurely pace. And, once again, she realises that we live in a land filled with wonders- perfect for a Grand Day Out.

This week, Susan is on a trip to the home of a beloved childhood character, Winnie the Pooh. It gives her a chance to explore everything the surrounding area of the South Downs has to offer. There’s surprising history, picture postcard scenery and a healthy dose of childhood nostalgia – all topped off with her very own trip to the Hundred Acre Wood.

Susan’s begins at Clayton Hill which offers one of the best views around. She’s in for a treat as she spies a historic windmill’s sails spinning – a rare sight and a first for Susan. The door is open- and she can look around inside too. t’s a lovely way to kick off a Grand Day Out.

Heading through the South Downs, Susan indulges her love of all things steam powered with a trip to Hollycombe, which houses the country’s largest collection of working steam.

It’s nestled in a gorgeous forest and Susan gets the chance to master the art of driving Jasper the steam tractor, ride a steam-powered vintage fairground ride and even travel on a scenic narrow-gauge train offering one of the best hidden viewpoints of the South Downs.

Hartfield is the next calling point, a village that looks like it’s from a children’s book – and known as the home of Winne the Pooh and friends. Author AA Milne crafted the much-loved tales right here- and Susan pays a visit to the ‘Poohseum’ – a museum dedicated to the famous bear and his story – and where Milne’s son, the real Christopher Robin, once bought his sweets.

Susan hears the secrets behind the stories- and heads to explore the inspiration for the Hundred Acre Wood. Here, the stories come to life, and she can spot the homes of some of her favourite characters before getting down to the serious business of a game of Pooh Sticks.

At the recently restored and immaculate gardens of Leonardslee, Susan discover a garden worthy of a fairy-tale in itself - but one topped off by being home to a large colony of friendly wallabies. Susan hears how they came to call this little corner of the country home - and also enjoys exploring another of the estate’s treasures; a huge, hand-crafted dolls house. It’s a piece of childhood wonder that seems very appropriate to Winnie the Pooh Country

Deciding to give Dame Helen a bit of downtime, Susan enjoys a scenic boat trip down the River Arun in the heart of the South Downs. Then, keen for a bit of a history fix, Susan hears how the Battle of Hastings didn’t take place quite where she thought and also how the court jester was responsible for more than just the laughs. Anyone for fire-breathing?

Susan rounds off her trip with a visit to Crawley, home of the Marbles World Championships. She hears how it came to be- before being teamed with the defending champion. There’s just a touch of the competitive Calman spirit coming out as she knuckles down for the contest. But this game, a classic children’s favourite, seems just right for ending her time in Winnie the Pooh Country.

Susan Calman's Grand Day Out returns Friday 1st November at 8pm on Channel 5.