From hidden symbols on post boxes to railings made from recycled WWII shelters, this esoteric and utterly charming compendium of the capital's overlooked everyday treasures is an essential volume for any Londoner.
See London in a completely new light in this guide to the city's hidden secrets, untold stories and special places laden with history which you can discover for yourself!
London is famous for its museums, each one full of treasures and relics - but the biggest museum in the capital is the city itself. From the stories behind unusual street names, to the trees in our parks; railings made from recycled WWII stretchers, to shrapnel damage on walls; the hidden symbols on post boxes, to prehistoric tree trunks - there is a rich history hidden in the oft-overlooked details of the city's streets, gardens, parks and buildings.
This richly detailed and beautifully illustrated book provides a miscellany of historic features and curiosities to spot as you wander around the capital. Whether you've always wondered why there are cattle troughs on your route to work, why bollards often look like upside down cannons or wanted to know what a Victorian stink pipe is - this book will provide the tools to decipher London's secret code, and introduce you to a treasure trove of hidden spots to explore.
The book comes complete with maps so you can spot these details yourself on walks through the capital.
So, pop on a sturdy pair of shoes and get ready to turn the city into the museum you never knew you had.
Publisher: Quarto Publishing PLC
ISBN: 9780711277557
Number of pages: 176
Dimensions: 210 x 160 mm
“In its 165 pages, the book manages to pack in a heap of information and Jack is sensible in acknowledging that some things may be urban myths or that we simply don’t know their true origins. As well as a standard index, there is a listing by postcode which I think is a splendid idea in these days of phone maps. Beautifully illustrated by Katherine Fraser… A great addition to the library of London loves.” - The London Society
".a really enjoyable book: the research is wide ranging, and Jack’s knowledge and enthusiasm is infectious… an ideal gift for anyone starting to ask questions about this wonderful city.” - Hornsey Historical Society
“If you love London, if you love history, if you love walking – you will love Jack’s book. If you have only a slight interest in any of these, by the time you have finished the first section – your curiosity to learn more will have been piqued. Bravo Jack Chesher – this is a book that will have a permanent place on our shelves. All Londoners and visitors to London ought to have a copy too.” - Lady Lewis
“If you wish to own just one reference about London, you could do no better than purchasing this sumptuously produced book.” - Cabbie Blog
Fantastic book on some of the more hidden sights of London. The illustrations are gorgeous and make the book really stand out. I’m excited to do the self guided tours and to see what Jack produces next!
I really love this book. Great illustrations and perfect little bits of information that are informative and fun to read.
There are dozens of books devoted to London's history, I should know I've dozens of them. But I doubt you'll find a better designed one, for if it was larger it could be described as a coffee table art... More
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