The UK was the birthplace of the underground railway, with London’s Tube setting the global standard. So why do so few British cities have metro systems today?

In this episode of Ye Olde Guide, Liam McGrath and Daniel Gooch take a break from city guides to explore the curious case of Britain’s missing metros. From the legacy of Victorian railways and trams to post-war car-centric planning, we unpack the historical, urban, and political reasons why cities like Birmingham, Leeds, and Manchester never got the metro systems their European counterparts enjoy.

The Elizabeth Line was a rare recent bright spot in UK metro growth - but this added another line in London, with Leeds still relying on infrequent suburban rail and buses.

We also look at the cost crisis facing modern transit projects, the economic consequences of limited urban rail, and what the future might hold for public transport in the UK.

Featuring listener feedback, historical insights, and a dash of urbanist frustration—this is one for train lovers, city nerds, and anyone wondering why Britain stopped building underground rail.

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Join us on Ye Olde Guide as we explore the history of Nottingham.

This is the third part of three episodes on Nottingham.

We will be discussing the Urban Landscape of Nottingham, looking back to its origins as two distinct settlements, growth around the market square, industrial expansion and the expansion of housing. We discuss the fine architecture of Nottingham including the imposing Council House, Lace Market, University buildings and Wollaton Hall.

Check out part 1 for the introduction to our historical guide to Nottingham.

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Join us on a jam packed episode of Ye Olde Guide!

This is the second part of three episodes on Nottingham

In the Science & industry section we discover the history of the Lace industry and the big companies that grew in Nottingham like Boots chemist, Raleigh Cycles and Players Cigarettes. We will learn about the contributions of the Universities in Nottingham.

In the Arts & Culture section we discuss the legacies of Robin Hood, Nottingham's sporting clubs and several writers who were heavily influenced by the city including Graham Greene, DH Lawrence, and Alan Sillitoe. We learn about Lord Byron, Paul Smith and the Goose Fair.

Check out part 1 for the introduction to our historical guide to Nottingham

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