Historic Architecture Books

Forgotten Churches: Exploring England's Hidden Treasures by Luke Sherlock invites you to embark on an enchanting exploration of England's architectural gems. This Sunday Times Bestseller captivates readers with the stunning beauty and rich history of 70 lesser-known churches, showcasing not just their craftsmanship but...

Embark on a captivating journey with Steeple Chasing: Around Britain by Church, authored by the renowned Peter Ross. This Sunday Times bestseller, recognized as the Waterstones Non-Fiction Book of the Month, promises to transport readers through the enchanting world of Britain's sacred architecture. As...

A Tomb With a View – The Stories & Glories of Graveyards by the acclaimed author Peter Ross invites readers on an extraordinary journey through the hidden narratives of cemeteries, making it a compelling choice for anyone passionate about history and architecture. This award-winning...

A Home for All Seasons by Gavin Plumley is a captivating exploration of love, heritage, and the beauty of the natural world. This compelling narrative invites you into a transformative journey that turns an urbanite into a country dweller, revealing the profound connection between...

Medieval Graffiti: The Lost Voices of England's Churches by Matthew Champion invites you on an enthralling journey through England's ecclesiastical history, where hidden messages etched into church walls come to life. This captivating exploration reveals a treasure trove of our ancestors' thoughts and lives,...

How To Read A Church by Dr Richard Taylor is a transformative treasure from the acclaimed vendor, Spectator, that will change how you perceive sacred spaces forever. This enlightening guide serves as your key to unlocking the hidden meanings and intricate details found within...

La Serenissima: The Story of Venice by Jonathan Keates is your passport to an enchanting voyage through one of the world's most storied cities. This expertly crafted narrative invites readers to explore the vibrant history of Venice, revealing the extraordinary tapestry of triumphs and...

Uncover the fascinating world of architecture with The Stonemason: A History of Building Britain, crafted by the esteemed stonemason Andrew Ziminski. With over three decades of expertise in the field, Ziminski invites you into a captivating narrative that celebrates Britain’s architectural wonders, making this...

Discover the captivating narrative of Seashaken Houses: A Lighthouse History from Eddystone to Fastnet by Tom Nancollas, a remarkable exploration of Britain's iconic rock lighthouses. This compelling book weaves together rich history and evocative storytelling, inviting readers into the solitary world of these majestic...

Experience the profound beauty of sacred architecture with England's Thousand Best Churches, curated by the esteemed Simon Jenkins. This captivating book is a treasure trove for history enthusiasts and architecture lovers, offering a unique exploration into the rich tapestry of ecclesiastical artistry found throughout...

Church Going: A Stonemason's Guide to the Churches of the British Isles by Andrew Ziminski is an enthralling exploration of the architectural wonders that define Britain's historical landscape. This exceptional guide not only serves as a practical resource for enthusiasts of historic architecture but...

Icons of England by Bill Bryson is a stunning tribute to the captivating landscapes and rich cultural tapestry of England. This remarkable collection shines a light on England's countryside and country life, presenting an expansive view that is both enlightening and visually enticing. Originally...

Rice's Church Primer by Matthew Rice is your essential guide to understanding the architectural language of churches throughout the United Kingdom. This delightful primer takes you on a captivating journey through the rich tapestry of church architecture, blending history, art, and spirituality in a...

A Time to Keep Silence by the acclaimed travel writer Patrick Leigh Fermor invites readers to embark on a mesmerizing journey through the tranquil realms of monastic life. This poignant narrative draws you into the serene landscapes of the French Abbey of St Wandrille...

Venice by Jan Morris is not just a book; it’s an enthralling journey into the heart of one of the world’s most enchanting cities. This literary gem immerses readers in the rich tapestry of Venice's history and culture, making it a must-have for any...

England's Villages: An Extraordinary Journey Through Time is the stunning new book from the renowned host of BBC 2's Villages by the Sea, Dr. Ben Robinson. This captivating exploration invites readers to delve into the rich tapestry of England's history, uncovering the enchanting evolution...

Rice's Language of Buildings is an extraordinary work by the acclaimed architectural artist Matthew Rice, now offered in a stunning larger format edition. This beautifully illustrated book serves as an indispensable guide for anyone eager to explore the rich tapestry of British architecture. It...

"The History of England's Cathedrals," authored by Nicholas Orme, is a captivating exploration that invites readers into the breathtaking world of England's sixty-two Anglican and Catholic cathedrals. This meticulously crafted narrative reveals not only the architectural grandeur of these historic structures but also their...

How to Read Churches: A Crash Course in Christian Architecture by Dr Denis R. McNamara is an essential guide that invites readers to delve into the captivating world of ecclesiastical architecture. This engaging book not only enhances your understanding of church designs but also...

Step into the heart of London's vibrant pub culture with Back to the Local by Maurice Gorham, a captivating exploration that has been acclaimed as 'perhaps the most charming and evocative tome ever penned on the English pub' by Slightly Foxed. This delightful book...

Ships Of Heaven: The Private Life of Britain’s Cathedrals by Christopher Somerville invites readers on an enchanting journey through the soul of Britain’s beloved cathedrals. This remarkable non-fiction work goes beyond traditional historical narratives, transforming these monumental structures into living stories that resonate with...

Embark on a captivating journey through British history with The Palace: From the Tudors to the Windsors, 500 Years of History at Hampton Court by Gareth Russell. This remarkable book delves into the rich tapestry of royal heritage that has shaped the majestic Hampton...

The Broken Road: From the Iron Gates to Mount Athos by Patrick Leigh Fermor is a captivating literary masterpiece that concludes an extraordinary trilogy, inviting readers to embark on a profound journey through culture, history, and introspection. This compelling work delicately intertwines themes of...

Discover the architectural wonders of the continent with Europe’s 100 Best Cathedrals by renowned author Simon Jenkins. This exquisite book is a treasure for anyone who appreciates the grandeur of European history and breathtaking architecture. Designed as a visual and intellectual feast, Europe’s 100...

Great Churches of London by renowned photographer Derry Brabbs invites you to embark on an extraordinary journey through the city’s iconic religious landmarks. This exquisite volume showcases the architectural grandeur and rich history of London’s churches, combining stunning visuals with engrossing narratives that reveal...

The Bookshop, The Draper, The Candlestick Maker: A History of the High Street by Annie Gray is a captivating exploration of Britain's cherished high streets. This insightful narrative, recognized by The Daily Mail, whisks you back through time, revealing the rich tapestry of local...

Embark on a mesmerizing journey with King of Dust: Adventures in Forgotten Sculpture by Alex Woodcock. This enchanting paperback invites readers to delve into the profound artistry of ancient sculptures, blending history with passion. In this captivating narrative, Woodcock shares his transformation through the...

The Treasures of English Churches: Witnesses to the History of a Nation, authored by Dr. Matthew Byrne, invites readers on a captivating exploration of England's rich ecclesiastical heritage. This extraordinary publication by The National Churches Trust serves as a visual feast, merging stunning imagery...

Sir Edwin Lutyens: Britain's Greatest Architect? by Clive Aslet is an extraordinary journey into the legacy of one of the 20th century's most illustrious architects. This engaging biography offers readers an intimate glimpse into the life and work of Sir Edwin Lutyens (1869-1944), whose...

Legendary Lighthouses of Britain: An Illustrated Guide to the Sentinels that Guard Our Shore, created by the renowned artist Roger O'Reilly, invites you on a mesmerizing voyage along the breathtaking coastlines of Britain. This hardback book is a stunning visual feast, featuring retro artwork...

The Long Weekend: Life in the English Country House Between the Wars by Adrian Tinniswood is a captivating exploration of a transformative period in British history, acclaimed as a 'masterpiece of social history' by the Daily Mail. This exquisite narrative invites readers into the...

England's Cathedrals by Sir Simon Jenkins invites readers on an awe-inspiring journey through the architectural wonders of England. This beautifully illustrated hardback book encapsulates the grandeur and historical significance of cathedrals that have stood resilient for over a millennium, making it a must-have for...

Uprooted: On the Trail of the Green Man by Nina Lyon invites readers on an extraordinary exploration through the captivating realm of historic architecture and mythology. This compelling journey begins with a chance encounter with an ancient carving, igniting Lyon's quest to uncover the...

Step into the captivating world of Brunelleschi's Dome: The Story of the Great Cathedral in Florence, authored by the esteemed Dr. Ross King. This compelling narrative unveils the extraordinary journey behind the iconic dome of Santa Maria del Fiore, a pinnacle of Italian Renaissance...

Walter Gropius: Visionary Founder of the Bauhaus is a compelling biography crafted by the talented Fiona MacCarthy, inviting readers into the transformative world of one of modernism’s most iconic figures. This captivating narrative has been recognized as a ‘Book of the Year’ by The...

The Lost Chapel of Westminster: How a Royal Chapel Became the House of Commons by John Cooper takes readers on a mesmerizing journey through the historical fabric of British politics and architecture. This compelling non-fiction work delves into the captivating story of St Stephen's...

Step into the intriguing realm of Church Curiosities: Strange Objects and Bizarre Legends by David Castleton, where a mesmerizing journey unfolds through the hidden treasures of Britain's churches and cathedrals. This captivating exploration invites readers to uncover peculiar artefacts and bizarre legends that surround...

The Book in the Cathedral: The Last Relic of Thomas Becket, authored by Christopher de Hamel, offers a mesmerizing exploration into the depths of medieval history, sure to captivate readers from all walks of life. This compelling narrative reveals the intriguing tale of the...

Step into the fascinating world of railway architecture with Cathedrals of Steam: How London’s Great Stations Were Built – And How They Transformed the City by Christian Wolmar. This compelling narrative invites readers to explore the twelve iconic railway stations that have not only...

Immerse yourself in the architectural wonders of "60 Remarkable Buildings of the National Trust" by Elizabeth Green. This stunning hardback book invites readers on an enlightening exploration through 900 years of remarkable architecture across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. With its richly illustrated pages,...

Country Church Monuments by C. B. Newham FSA is a remarkable exploration of hidden artistic treasures nestled in the rural landscapes of England and Wales. This extraordinary illustrated compendium invites you to uncover the wealth of funerary artworks that often remain overshadowed by the...

England's Cathedrals by Sir Simon Jenkins invites readers on an enlightening journey through the magnificent cathedrals that grace the English landscape. This captivating book offers not just a historical account but a rich tapestry of personal anecdotes and humor, revealing the awe-inspiring architecture and...

Sacred Sites. The Library of Esoterica by Jessica Hundley invites readers on an extraordinary journey through the transcendent realms of art and architecture that resonate profoundly with the sacredness of our existence. This remarkable volume delves into the myriad ways we infuse our environments...

The Architecture of Happiness by Alain de Botton is a thought-provoking masterpiece that has captivated readers worldwide, soaring to the status of a Number One International Bestseller. This engaging work intricately explores the profound connections between our environments and emotional well-being, encouraging readers to...

Humanise: A Maker’s Guide to Building Our World by Thomas Heatherwick invites readers into a transformative exploration of design and architecture. This thought-provoking book emphasizes the importance of human-centric approaches in our environments, challenging the often cold and impersonal nature of contemporary architecture. In...

Step into the captivating world of Tudor England with Houses of Power: The Places that Shaped the Tudor World by Simon Thurley. This remarkable book transforms your understanding of the Tudor era, revealing the majestic homes that not only housed royalty but also influenced...

Building Britannia: A History of Britain in Twenty-Five Buildings by Steven Parissien invites readers on an extraordinary journey through the rich tapestry of British history, explored through the lens of twenty-five iconic structures. This captivating book transcends mere architectural analysis; it serves as a...

Architecture: From Prehistory to Climate Emergency by Barnabas Calder is a compelling exploration that connects the dots between architectural design and energy consumption through the ages. This pivotal work invites readers on an enlightening journey spanning 15,000 years of architectural history, examining how our...

Churches: An Architectural Guide by Simon Bradley is an enlightening resource meticulously crafted by the renowned editors of the Pevsner Architectural Guides. This compact paperback serves as a treasure trove for architecture enthusiasts and casual visitors alike, unveiling the captivating architectural history of English...

Building Britannia: A History of Britain in Twenty-Five Buildings by Steven Parissien offers an engaging and insightful journey through the architectural landscape of Britain, showcasing how 25 significant buildings reflect the nation’s rich history. This captivating narrative interweaves the stories of iconic and lesser-known...