Description

Book Synopsis

With a foreword by Iain Sinclair.

London is an ancient city, whose foundation dates back literally thousands of years into the legendary prehistory of these islands. Not surprisingly it has accumulated a large number of stories, both historic and mythical, during this period, many of which, though faithfully recorded at the time, have lain almost forgotten in dusty libraries throughout the city.

The Secret Lore of London is a guide to the legends, including a discussion of their importance as part of the oral tradition of Britain, combining Prehistoric, Celtic, Arthurian, Roman, Saxon and Norman levels - each of which has contributed to the many-layered life of the city.

The first part contains a unique selection of essays (some printed here for the first time) by experts in their fields, each of whom possesses a unique interest in the legends of these islands, and who have written widely on associated themes.

The second part of the book will

Trade Review
This book is a companion for anyone wanting to explore the capital city's mythology and folklore... I think you'll enjoy peeling back the layers of history. * The Bookish Badger *
So, so brilliant. Absolutely loved it....Overall this is a fascinating book. It has history and legend, great references to literature and architecture, everything I could want in a non-fiction book. * Osbian Reviews *
The Secret Lore of London completes its siren call with an intricate and alluring cover...If you have even the smallest interest in myth, legend and London, then this is a book for you. * Cultural Wednesday *
London is such a vast city with a long, interesting and fascinating history, so to tackle this subject is very brave and admirable. If you have an insatiable hunger for knowledge, this book will give you food for thought as it opens a wonderfully colourful world that forms the foundations of what we believe to be 'solid' history. * The Legends of London *
I have to say that I am delighted that the best material from The Aquarian Guide has been given a new lease of life, letting new readers enjoy a collection of wonderful essays that have been been long out of print. The new material makes the book even better - and the title and cover are a lot more up to date too! * Before It's News *
A fascinating look at how our ancestors viewed their streets, and a guide to the sites of legends and myths. * History Revealed *

The Secret Lore of London

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    RRP £16.99 – you save £1.70 (10%)

    Order before 4pm today for delivery by Sat 20 Jun 2026.

    A Paperback / softback by Nigel Pennick, John Matthews, Caroline Wise

    2 in stock

      Trusted by thousands of customers. See 2,385+ Customer Reviews

      View other formats and editions of The Secret Lore of London by Nigel Pennick

      Publisher: Hodder & Stoughton
      Publication Date: 24/03/2016
      ISBN13: 9781473620247, 978-1473620247
      ISBN10: 1473620244

      Description

      Book Synopsis

      With a foreword by Iain Sinclair.

      London is an ancient city, whose foundation dates back literally thousands of years into the legendary prehistory of these islands. Not surprisingly it has accumulated a large number of stories, both historic and mythical, during this period, many of which, though faithfully recorded at the time, have lain almost forgotten in dusty libraries throughout the city.

      The Secret Lore of London is a guide to the legends, including a discussion of their importance as part of the oral tradition of Britain, combining Prehistoric, Celtic, Arthurian, Roman, Saxon and Norman levels - each of which has contributed to the many-layered life of the city.

      The first part contains a unique selection of essays (some printed here for the first time) by experts in their fields, each of whom possesses a unique interest in the legends of these islands, and who have written widely on associated themes.

      The second part of the book will

      Trade Review
      This book is a companion for anyone wanting to explore the capital city's mythology and folklore... I think you'll enjoy peeling back the layers of history. * The Bookish Badger *
      So, so brilliant. Absolutely loved it....Overall this is a fascinating book. It has history and legend, great references to literature and architecture, everything I could want in a non-fiction book. * Osbian Reviews *
      The Secret Lore of London completes its siren call with an intricate and alluring cover...If you have even the smallest interest in myth, legend and London, then this is a book for you. * Cultural Wednesday *
      London is such a vast city with a long, interesting and fascinating history, so to tackle this subject is very brave and admirable. If you have an insatiable hunger for knowledge, this book will give you food for thought as it opens a wonderfully colourful world that forms the foundations of what we believe to be 'solid' history. * The Legends of London *
      I have to say that I am delighted that the best material from The Aquarian Guide has been given a new lease of life, letting new readers enjoy a collection of wonderful essays that have been been long out of print. The new material makes the book even better - and the title and cover are a lot more up to date too! * Before It's News *
      A fascinating look at how our ancestors viewed their streets, and a guide to the sites of legends and myths. * History Revealed *

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