It’s hard to believe that it’s been 35 years since the iconic British sitcom Only Fools and Horses aired its beloved Christmas special, the Jolly Boys’ Outing. This episode, filmed in the beautiful county of Kent, has become a fan favorite and a staple of holiday television viewing. As we approach the holiday season, let’s take a trip down memory lane and celebrate the enduring legacy of this classic episode.
For those who may not be familiar with the show, Only Fools and Horses follows the misadventures of the Trotter brothers, Del Boy and Rodney, as they try to make their fortune through various get-rich-quick schemes. The show, created by John Sullivan, first aired in 1981 and quickly became a hit with audiences, thanks to its clever writing, lovable characters, and hilarious situations.
But it was the Jolly Boys’ Outing, which first aired on Christmas Day in 1989, that truly captured the hearts of viewers. Set in the fictional town of Margate in Kent, the episode sees Del Boy organizing a day trip for the members of the Trotters’ local social club, the Jolly Boys. What follows is a series of mishaps and misunderstandings that have become synonymous with the show’s trademark humor.
One of the reasons why the Jolly Boys’ Outing is so beloved is because of its setting in the picturesque county of Kent. Known as the “Garden of England,” Kent is famous for its stunning countryside, charming villages, and beautiful coastline. It’s no wonder that the show’s creators chose this location to film their Christmas special.
The episode begins with the Jolly Boys boarding a coach in Peckham, London, and making their way to Margate. As they pass through the Kent countryside, viewers are treated to breathtaking views of rolling hills, quaint villages, and picturesque farms. The scenes filmed in Kent truly capture the essence of the county and showcase its natural beauty.
But it’s not just the countryside that makes an appearance in the episode. The Jolly Boys’ Outing also takes viewers to some of Kent’s most famous landmarks, including the iconic Dreamland amusement park in Margate. This historic park, which first opened in 1920, is a popular tourist attraction and has been featured in many films and TV shows over the years. Its appearance in the Jolly Boys’ Outing only adds to its charm and nostalgia.
Another highlight of the episode is the scenes filmed at the beautiful Botany Bay beach in Broadstairs. This stunning stretch of coastline, with its white cliffs and golden sands, is the perfect backdrop for the Trotters’ misadventures. It’s no wonder that the beach has become a popular tourist destination, with many visitors wanting to recreate the iconic scenes from the show.
But it’s not just the locations that make the Jolly Boys’ Outing so special. The episode also features some of the show’s most memorable and hilarious moments. From Del Boy’s attempts to impress the ladies with his “French” accent to Rodney’s disastrous encounter with a group of nuns, the episode is full of laugh-out-loud moments that have become ingrained in British pop culture.
The Jolly Boys’ Outing also has a heartwarming message at its core. Despite all the chaos and mishaps, the episode is ultimately about the importance of friendship and family. As the Trotters and the Jolly Boys come together to enjoy their day out, we are reminded that it’s the people in our lives that truly make the holiday season special.
As we celebrate the 35th anniversary of the Jolly Boys’ Outing, it’s clear that this episode has stood the test of time. Its timeless humor, beautiful setting, and heartwarming message continue to resonate with audiences of all ages. And for fans of the show, it has become a beloved Christmas tradition to rewatch this classic episode every year.
In conclusion, the Jolly Boys’ Outing is not just a Christmas special, but a celebration of the enduring legacy of Only Fools and Horses. Its setting in the stunning county of Kent only adds to its charm and has helped to put this beautiful part of England on the map. So this holiday season, let’s raise a glass to the Jolly Boys and the enduring magic of this beloved episode.
