The narrator introduces their return to England and the intent to explore changes since their departure.

• The narrator returns to England from abroad to see the changes that have occurred.
• They mention a new life similar to the pilgrims who left Plymouth centuries ago.
• They express curiosity about life outside of London in the current social and political climate.

The narrator describes the foggy weather in Plymouth and the country's reputation for dampness.

• Plymouth is depicted as embodying the classic damp and foggy weather Britain is known for.
• The narrator uses the term 'foggy albian' to describe the scene, implying a sense of gloom.

The narrator speaks with locals and observes the state of Plymouth, noting social issues and changes.

• Locals express mixed feelings about the city, with some acknowledging challenges like homelessness and boarded-up shops.
• The narrator reflects on the past, suggesting that issues like homelessness may have been less visible before.
• There is a sense of nostalgia for the perceived better days of the past.

The narrator encounters individuals in cosplay and discusses their unique characters and experiences.

• A person in cosplay is interviewed, revealing that they created their character the night before.
• The narrator humorously inquires about a packet of Neurofen, to which the cosplayer responds vaguely.

The narrator explores Union Street, noting the decline of once prominent buildings and the presence of homelessness.

• Union Street is described as desolate, with many shops closed and a visible homeless population.
• The narrator laments the deterioration of historic buildings, suggesting a loss of Britain's former glory.

The narrator speaks with locals about their experiences and opinions on the city's changes.

• One individual discusses their intention to leave Plymouth, citing difficulties in accessing basic services and a desire to move to Germany.
• The conversation reflects a broader sentiment of decline and struggle within the community.

The narrator concludes the visit to Plymouth and prepares to explore other parts of the country.

• The narrator purchases a train ticket but is shocked by the high price of travel.
• They express frustration with the cost and decide to seek alternative transportation.

The narrator arrives in Western Super Mare and is greeted by a friendly dog.

• Upon arrival, the narrator is immediately welcomed by a local dog, setting a friendly tone for the visit.
• They express hope that the rest of the town's residents will be just as welcoming.

The narrator shares the town's history as a holiday resort and observes its current state of decline.

• Western Super Mare is described as a former premier resort that has fallen into disrepair.
• The narrator notes the prevalence of guest houses and suggests they no longer serve British tourists.

The narrator speaks with a local about the town's past and present conditions.

• A conversation with a resident reveals that the town has declined over the past decade.
• The local offers to show the narrator a particular spot that exemplifies the town's state.

The narrator reflects on the visit to Western Super Mare and prepares to continue the journey.

• The narrator summarizes the experience in Western Super Mare as seeing a town in decline.
• They voice a lack of optimism for the town's future and express a desire to explore other areas.

The narrator arrives in Birmingham and encounters a challenging environment.

• Birmingham presents a stark contrast to previous locations, with an incident involving a local man.
• The narrator expresses discomfort with the area and decides to leave the city.

The narrator travels to Sunderland and reflects on the region's industrial past and decline.

• Sunderland is described as a prime example of the impact of industrial decline in England.
• The narrator plans to visit the town of Horden, further exploring the state of post-industrial Britain.

The narrator witnesses the social and economic struggles in Horden through interactions with locals.

• Locals describe Horden as a difficult place to live with issues such as theft and vandalism.
• The narrator encounters a man who has relocated to Horden from the south due to lower living costs.

The narrator visits Horden's Working Men's Club and partakes in the local pastime of Bingo.

• The club is a social hub where locals gather for drinks and Bingo, showing community spirit.
• The narrator participates in Bingo, a traditional game, and interacts with the club members.