Race Across the World (2019)
The BBC reality series where pairs race across continents with no flights, no smartphones, and no limits on adventure.
Race Across the World - Series Information
- Original Title: Race Across the World
- First Air Year: 2019
- Last Air Year: 2025
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Reality
- Number of Seasons: 6
- Number of Episodes: 44
- Status: Returning Series
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Networks: BBC One, BBC Two
- Production Companies: Studio Lambert
- Production Countries: United Kingdom
- Alternative Titles: 环球竞速 (CN), Først til verdens ende UK (DK)
Race Across the World - Plot
In a frenetic race across the world, travellers can choose any route they like - but no flights or phones are allowed. On the trip of a lifetime, which pair will finish first?
Race Across the World - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and see what awaits contestants in this no-flights, no-phones adventure.
How would you race across the globe... if you couldn't fly?
Where to Watch Race Across the World
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Race Across the World - Cast & Crew
Main Cast
- John Hannah
Executive Producers
- Tim Harcourt
- Rob Fisher
- Lucy Curtis
- Benjamin Leigh
- Stephen Day
Race Across the World - FAQs
What makes Race Across the World unique among travel shows?
Unlike most travel competitions, Race Across the World bans flights and smartphones entirely. Contestants must navigate using maps, local transport, and sheer resourcefulness, making every journey genuinely unpredictable. That raw, low-tech adventure is what sets it apart from glossier, budget-heavy travel formats.
Is Race Across the World worth watching?
Absolutely. The show consistently earns praise for its warmth, stunning scenery, and the emotional journeys its contestants undertake. It strips travel back to basics, creating compelling human stories alongside breathtaking landscapes. Whether you love travel, competition, or feel-good television, it delivers on all fronts.
Where can you stream Race Across the World?
Race Across the World is available to stream on BritBox and the BritBox Apple TV Channel, both offering flat-rate subscription access. For additional viewing options or regional availability, check JustWatch to compare all platforms currently carrying the series.
How many seasons does Race Across the World have?
The series has run for six seasons since its 2019 debut, accumulating 44 episodes across its main run plus a specials collection. Season 6 is currently airing, confirming the show remains in active production and continues to attract new contestants and destinations.
What routes have contestants taken across the seasons?
Each season sets a new overland route spanning thousands of miles. Past series have taken contestants from Mexico to Patagonia, Southeast Asia, Central Asia, and beyond. The changing destinations keep the format fresh, offering viewers a new geography and cultural tapestry with every season.
Who narrates Race Across the World?
Scottish actor John Hannah provides the voice narration for Race Across the World. Best known for roles in The Mummy and Four Weddings and a Funeral, his warm and measured delivery adds a grounded, storytelling quality that complements the show's adventurous and human-centred tone.
Has Race Across the World won any awards?
Race Across the World has received BAFTA recognition, with nominations in the Reality and Constructed Factual category. Its critical standing reflects the show's reputation as one of the most inventive and emotionally resonant reality formats to emerge from British television in recent years.
What are similar shows to Race Across the World?
If you enjoy Race Across the World, The Amazing Race offers a faster-paced global competition, while The Grand Tour and Top Gear deliver travel-driven entertainment with a motoring twist. For a similar stripped-back adventure feel, these are among the most satisfying alternatives to explore.
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