Dates: 2004-2005
Country of Origin: United Kingdom
Presenter: Nicholas Crane
Time: Approx. 30 minutes
Web Site: BBC2-Map Man
The BBC documentary series Map Man, hosted by Nicholas Crane, is a fascinating exploration of cartography through the ages. It first aired on BBC Two in 2004 and was repeated in 2013. Each episode delves into a specific historical map. It blends storytelling, geography, and Crane’s engaging personality to bring these artifacts to life. Crane is a geographer and accomplished explorer. He is the perfect guide for this journey. He makes the technical aspects of mapping accessible and exciting.
The series shines in its ability to weave history with modern-day relevance. For example, Crane retraces routes from famous maps, comparing their historical accuracy to the current landscape. His hands-on approach—whether scaling mountains or navigating rivers—gives viewers a tangible sense of the challenges faced by early mapmakers. The production also balances expert interviews, archival materials, and on-location filming, creating a visually rich narrative.
There are episodes focused on the medieval Gough Map and John Ogilby‘s road maps. Crane demonstrates how these innovations influenced navigation. They also shaped regional understanding. The series appeals to history buffs. It also attracts anyone curious about how maps shape our perception of the world.
Nonetheless, some viewers find the pacing uneven, as the depth of historical detail occasionally slows the narrative. Map Man inspires those interested in maps, exploration, or history. It is an informative series that celebrates the art and science of cartography.
Series 1
September 16, 2004
- William Roy‘s Military Survey of Scotland (1747–53)
- John Ogilby‘s “Britannia” (1675)
- Harry Beck‘s London Underground Map (1933)
- The Gough Map (1360s)
- Greenville Collins’ “Coasting Pilot” (1693)
- William Smith‘s Geological Map of England & Wales (1815)
- Christopher Saxton‘s Atlas of England & Wales (1577)
- Martin Hotine‘s Ordnance Survey (1935–1950)
Series 2
September 5, 2005
- Bartholomew‘s Cycling Map of England and Wales (1896-1903)
- Timothy Pont‘s Maps of Scotland (c1583)
- Murdoch Mackenzie‘s Chart of the Orkney Islands (1748)
- John Speed‘s “Theatre of the Empire of Great Britaine” (1611–12)
- John Cary‘s “Inland Navigation” (1796)
- William Mudge‘s Ordnance Survey, 1st Edition, (1809)
- Mrs. P‘s A-Z (1936)
- Thomas Raven‘s “Clandeboye Estate Maps”, Ireland (1625–26)