It's here! Browse the 2024 Penguin Christmas gift guide
Mark Steel’s In Town: Series 11 & 12

Mark Steel’s In Town: Series 11 & 12

A BBC Radio 4 comedy series

Summary

The complete Series 11 and 12 of Mark Steel's comedy travel show

'Consistently the funniest programme on the radio' The Independent

Mark Steel is back with two more series of his award-winning show, in which he explores nine weird and wonderful places around the UK and beyond. After thoroughly researching each town's history, people and idiosyncrasies, he goes on to write and perform a tailor-made evening of stand-up for the residents.

Series 11 takes him to the former mining town of Blyth, Northumberland, where he finds a fascinating industrial legacy, a posh pub, and a very nice beach; Walthamstow, where he's joined by local MP Stella Creasey for a discussion about the controversial 'mini-Holland' cycling scheme; and Whitby; where he dodges the seagulls to present his findings on the Dracula origin story, chip shops and the resort's whaling history.

In Series 12, Mark tours the contrarian city of Nottingham to learn about local legends Robin Hood and Frank the xylophone player; and travels to Tring's Natural History Museum to take in the exhibit of fleas dressed as Mexicans. He also sets out to the Isles of Scilly, Salisbury and Newport, and pops over to Paris, where he performs two versions of his show: one in English and one in French...

With just the right blend of affection and rudeness, he celebrates the curious stories, quirky characters and regional eccentricities that make these areas unique. Whether you're a local or an out-of-towner, his hilarious observations will have you roaring with laughter.

Written by and starring Mark Steel
Additional material by Pete Sinclair
Produced by Julia McKenzie and Carl Cooper
Production co-ordinators: Beverly Tagg, Sarah Sharpe and Katie Baum
Sound Manager: Jerry Peal

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4, 1-15 December 2021 (Series 11), 22 August-26 September 2022 (Series 12)

©2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd (P)2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd

About the author

Mark Steel

Learn More

Sign up to the Penguin Newsletter

For the latest books, recommendations, author interviews and more