Hairy Bikers' Best of British

Si King and Dave Myers explore the history of the potato in Britain, tracing its impact from the 18th century to the present day. They discover that a vodka produced from the vegetable is currently winning global awards, highlighting the tuber's unexpected modern prestige.

Potatoes is a television programme presented as an episode that centres on one of the most familiar vegetables. The show falls under the episode genre and follows a straightforward format, guiding viewers through a specific subject without the trappings of a larger series. Its focus is entirely on the potato. In this installment, presenters Si King and Dave Myers set out to trace the potato’s journey through British history. They walk viewers through the crop’s arrival, its integration into everyday meals, and the way it has shaped culinary habits across the country. Their investigation highlights key moments that have defined the tuber’s role in Britain. During their research, King and Myers uncover a modern twist: a vodka distilled from potatoes that has begun to attract worldwide recognition. The drink, crafted directly from the vegetable, has secured a number of international awards, demonstrating that the humble spud can still surprise and succeed on a global stage. The episode blends historical narrative with contemporary achievement, showing how a simple root vegetable continues to influence both tradition and innovation. By linking past consumption patterns with present‑day accolades, the programme offers a concise look at the potato’s enduring relevance in British culture and beyond. It also points to future possibilities for the crop in food and drink.