Description

Discover the extraordinary stories written into Britain's historic buildings--and the people, power, and ideas that shaped them.

From time-worn ruins and cathedrals to tucked-away country churches and elegant stately homes, Britain is full of genuinely incredible--but often surprisingly overlooked--historic buildings.

Laden with character, style, and deep layers of heritage, these structures each represent something unique: they are the bearers of natural history, examples of the country's curious mish mash of architectural styles, and monuments to civic pride, power and creativity.

Each of their stones tells a remarkable story, including:

St Magnus' Cathedral in Orkney, glowing with red sandstone and blending Norwegian, Norman, and Gothic influences.
East Anglia and Scotland's medieval round-tower churches, ingenious responses to local geology and cultural exchange.
Layer Marney Tower, a Tudor display of status showcasing rare Italian terracotta ornament.
St Edmundsbury Cathedral, where a 21st-century Gothic tower carries medieval craft traditions into the modern age.

Great British Architecture brings together the stories behind 86 great buildings from across the nation and, with illustrations throughout, celebrates their beauty, charm, and significance.