Rich in fascinating detail, from the general (how a medieval cathedral was built) to the particular (the effect of climatic changes on 18th century fashion). Historical Britain enables the reader to understand not only the specific subject - whether a long barrow, a fortified bridge or a Victorian pumping station - but also its chronological place in the evolving jigsaw of Britain's history. Each section contains suggestions for where to find local examples of the topic in question and at the back of the book will be found a full list of "Sites and Museums" together with a glossary, a list of "Further Reading" and three indexes.
Armed with this hugely informative book, with its clear explanations and lively illustrations of everything from Iron Age forts to iron bridges, the reader can unravel and make sense of Britain's past more completely than ever before.
This attractive survey of architecture and landscape from Roman Britain to the present covers England, Wales, and Scotland. Compiled by the editor of several editions of
Collins Field Guide to Archaeology in Britain, the work argues against the steady disappearance of older structures and environments in favor of new buildings, roads, car parks, developments in farming, and other modern land usage.
Preceding the body of the work is a helpful five-page glossary of terms from architecture, landscape architecture, and urban planning. The main text treats major subjects chronologically (villages; parks, gardens, and sports; churches; castles and military works; public utilities; etc.). As applicable, information is given on who erected the structure, what its purpose was at the time of construction, and subsequent changes. The text is generously supported by clear, numbered, black-and-white photographs, maps, and line drawings, and there are six colorplates.
Several lengthy appendixes conclude the work. "Sites and Museums" lists all the sites mentioned in the text. "Further Reading" is an extensive bibliographic essay citing additional sources of information. There are indexes of people, place-names, and subjects. These, and the detailed table of contents at the front, must be used for efficient location of desired information.
Although Historical Britain contains much pertinent information and will be of value to adult readers interested in architecture or British history, it is not arranged for quick reference and thus will probably be more useful as a circulating title than as a reference book.
