Search results for ""countryside books""

The formation of the Pathfinder Force in August 1942 produced a steady but certain change in the fortunes of Bomber Command. Its effectiveness against targets during the early years of the war had been very difficult to gauge. When examined in detail afterwards, aerial photographs showed that only one third of the aircraft were successfully reaching their target area and less than this were actually placing their bombs with target accuracy. It was known during the large-scale bombing of Coventry in the autumn of 1940 that the Germans had used an elite force of pathfinder aircraft, armed with incendiaries, who had acted as target finders for the main force of German bombers. What was now needed for the RAF were some similar specialist squadrons, with crews handpicked for their discipline, courage, high morale and, in particular, skills in a wider than normal range of flying jobs. Sidney Bufton, Deputy Director of Bomber Operations, developed the concept of a new Target Finding Force, and his tenacity in putting pressure upon senior Air Ministry staff to implement his ideas and bring Bomber Command out of the doldrums paid off. The new force was finally accepted and the choice of Don Bennett as its first Commander was inspired. Bennett was restless, imaginative, and receptive to change. He never accepted second best and he became a legend to all who served under him. Pathfinder Squadrons were equipped with the best available aircraft, which included the famous Lancaster bomber and later, increasingly, the Mosquito which was a hugely versatile and successful fighter bomber. Would be aircrew for the RAF came as volunteers from all parts of the world including Canada, America, Australia and New Zealand. To join a Pathfinder Squadron was a rare privilege but with it went a huge leap in the likelihood of being shot down. Pathfinder aircrew and aircraft had to lead the way for their following Bomber Force in hazardous raid after raid. They flew at night but it took a full 25 minutes to run the gauntlet of the Berlin defences from end to end at full stretch. They were highly vulnerable to the wall of flak thrown up by German city defenders, as well as to attacks by night-fighters. By the end of the war some 56,000 crewmen of Bomber Command had lost their lives. Martyn Chorlton has written a gripping account of the RAF's Pathfinder Squadrons, recalling the challenges faced in the smoke-filled skies over occupied Europe. It is also a tribute to the brave young men whose exploits, lives and, in all too many cases, deaths have left a powerful torch to bear for all who care about freedom. The book carries a moving foreward by Michael Wadsworth, Chaplain to the Pathfinders Association.

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The book is divided into six sections. First, Trevor Yorke looks at the changes in Tudor society and how this affected the housing of the period. The next chapter explains their structure and the different materials used. He goes on to explore the different styles of timber framed, brick and stone houses and the various details of their facades. Trevor then looks inside the houses, detailing their rooms, how they were used and the interior features. There is a chapter on Tudor gardens, outbuildings and gatehouses, and finally Trevor looks at the Tudor houses that have survived to this day. He describes how they have been altered over time, and how the Tudor style was revived by the Victorians and Edwardians.The book ends with a useful Places to Visit section, listing the addresses and websites of noteworthy Tudor houses and museums.

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The county has a wealth of sightings from a malevolent presence, known as The Flincher, which stalks the corridors of the Former Canadian Red Cross Memorial Hospital at Taplow to a phantom with impeccable manners who helped a guest on with her coat in a house in Buckingham. The book reveals other strange hauntings and mysteries too. The author describes these and other chilling encounters, many of them first hand accounts, in a spine-tingling way which provides compulsive reading.

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Using his own drawings, diagrams and photographs, author Trevor Yorke explains all aspects of the Georgian and Regency house and provides a comprehensive guide to the houses of this notable period. This book is divided into three sections, outlining the history of the period; stepping inside the different rooms and their fittings, what they were used for and how they would have appeared; and the final section contains a quick reference guide with notes on dating houses, suggestions for further reading, a glossary of unfamiliar terms and details of places to visit.

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Looking for some of the best pub walks around Dartmoor? Look no further! The 15 circular walks in this pocket-sized guidebook take in beautiful scenery and all start/finish at a top-rated local pub. Experience Dartmoor's vast and varied landscape at its best; from the dramatic moorland around Princetown and Peter Tavy to the beautiful woods of the Bovey and Plym Valleys; from South Zeal in the north to Buckfast in the south. HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE: Impressive Lydford Castle; The charming village of North Bovey with its thatched cottages & picturesque village green; The remains of an old copper mine & the wonderful views from Ramsley Hill; St Pancras church, the cathedral of the moor, in Widecombe-in-the-Moor; Hound Tor, which, according to legend, was formed when a pack of hounds was turned to stone.

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The Cornwall Village Book is a celebration of the unique communities at the heart of a diverse and fascinating county. Compiled by the Cornwall Federation of Women's Institutes, it gathers together descriptions of 150 villages, recalling the history, people and events that make each one unique, and how their collective identity has shaped Cornwall as a county known for its rich cultural heritage. From the wild moorland landscapes to the picturesque harbour villages, this is truly a region of contrasting lives and communities. Despite the changes brought about by the modern age, these villages continue to thrive, providing a source of pride and delight to villagers and visitors alike. The Cornwall Village Book will appeal to those who have lived in the county all their lives and those visiting for the first time.

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A collection of local stories about the heroic deeds and achievements of the people of Cornwall, including the astronomer John Couch Adams, the engineer and inventor Richard Trevithick, Dolly Pentreath and the Penlee Lifeboat Crew.

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Around the wild and windswept Cornish coast fishing has been a way of life for centuries. Sons have followed fathers and grandfathers in the family boats, setting out from ports such as Polperro, Mevagissey, Mousehole, Newlyn, St Ives, Port Isaac and Looe to brave the stormy Atlantic Ocean to earn their living.

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This guide contains 20 circular walks in Shropshire, covering the very best of the county's wide-ranging landscape, from high up on the Shropshire Hills down to glorious woodland and wildlife-rich mosses; through historical towns and villages and along meandering waterways. There are recommendations for spring, summer, autumn and winter walks - including the best places to see bluebells in spring or wildflowers in summer, where best to appreciate autumn colours, and the perfect views for those crisp and clear winter days. The routes range from 21/2 to 8 miles. SELECTED HIGHLIGHTS: SPRING A sea of bluebells in Sallow Coppice & Clun A riot of rhododendrons in Burwarton, on the eastern slopes of Brown Clee Hill Ellesmere: a springtime walk with the chance of seeing herons nesting on Moscow Island SUMMER Take in magnificent views from Ragleth Hill Titterstone Clee Hill: an Iron Age hillfort, a frozen-in-time village & one of the best views in England A must-do walk at Stiperstones when the heather is in full bloom AUTUMN Collecting sweet chestnuts on an atmospheric walk in Comer Woods Foraging for fungi & wildlife-spotting at Whixall Moss Blazing autumn colours on a walk among the 300-year-old beech trees of Lydham WINTER Cound: woodland, fields & a valley carpeted with snowdrops A waterside walk on the Severn Way, taking in wildfowl at Chelmarsh Reservoir Weston Rhyn: check out formidable Chirk Castle & cross the border into Wales WHY YOU'LL LOVE IT: SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE - 20 circular Shropshire walking routes varying in length & difficulty, covering the hidden gems, must-see landmarks & noted beauty spots that make this such a special county for walking A WALK FOR EVERY DAY OF THE YEAR - Walks chosen specifically for each season, with specific places that shine at certain times in the calendar ALL THE INFO YOU'LL NEED - All of these Shropshire walks include parking info & how to get there, recommended local pubs & cafes, points of interest along the way & other places to visit nearby EASY TO FOLLOW - Full colour maps & pictures throughout, with clear written instructions making it easy to find your way

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This collection of 20 short, circular walks in West Sussex was put together with families in mind. Perfect for younger and older walkers, and those looking for a brief excursion, the shortest route is 11/2 miles and all are under 4 miles.

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20 WALKS THAT ARE PERFECT FOR YOUR DOG AND GREAT PUBS WHERE THEY'RE WELCOME. This collection of tried-and-tested walks, all between 1 and 5 miles, has been written specifically for dogs and their owners, allowing for maximum off-lead time.

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This easy-reference guide is packed with information and detailed illustrations, explaining everything you need to know about houses and properties from the Edwardian Age. Using his own drawings, diagrams and photographs, author Trevor Yorke takes the reader through all aspects of the Edwardian house. The book is intended to be an easy-to-understand guide for anyone making their first step into this subject. It will also provide readers with a background knowledge of all aspects of Edwardian housing, whether they are renovating, tracing the history of their own house or simply wanting to know more about this notable period in history. The book is divided into three sections: the first outlines the story of the Edwardian Age and how housing developed; the second section steps inside the house and looks at their various rooms and fittings; the final part includes a list of places to visit and a glossary of terms.

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The English canal network becomes increasingly popular and widely used each year. The main aim of this book is to explain how everything works - from locks and lifts, to tunnels and towpaths. Stan Yorke, a life-long narrow boat enthusiast, explains in an easy-to-understand manner the story of the canals. In this he is ably assisted by his son Trevor's superb drawings and diagrams. The book is divided into three clear sections. The first describes the history of the canals, the second looks at their structures and features, and the third suggests special sites of interest around the country, which can be visited by foot or by boat.

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Discover Hampshire's beautiful countryside with this pocket-sized guide to some of the best walks in the county. There are 20 circular routes here, varying in length from 21/2 to 6 miles. At the heart of every walk is a renowned local pub, all of which have been recommended for their good food and warm welcome. Explore the rolling chalk hills of the South Downs National Park at Buriton and East Meon, the coastal mudflats at Lymington, the Solent shore at Portsmouth, and quintessential New Forest heathland at Fritham, Burley and Rhinefield. Along the way you'll uncover the best of the Hampshire countryside, including crystal-clear chalk streams, peaceful woodland and picturesque villages with duck ponds, ancient churches and thatched cottages.

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Discover the beautiful countryside of Essex with this pocket-sized guide to some of the best circular walks in the county. There are 20 routes here, varying in length from 11/2 to 5 miles. Each walk includes a recommended local pub, cafe or restaurant, all of which are known for their good food and warm welcome. Explore the salt marshes of nature reserves Tollesbury Wick, RSPB Rainham Marshes and RSPB Wallasea Island; parkland around the estates of Audley End, Langleys at Great Waltham and Hylands; water meadows along the River Colne and the valley of the River Stour made famous by artist John Constable; the pretty villages of Bartlow, Castle Hedingham and Matching; and the wild countryside and sea views of the Naze. Along the way you'll uncover rugged countryside, tranquil woodland, historic villages, castles, rivers and seashore, not to mention the spectacular views that make Essex such a great place for walking.

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This walking guide contains 20 circular routes, covering the very best of Lancashire's wide-ranging landscape - from high in the Lancashire hills down to glorious forest and wildlife-rich moorland; through historical towns and villages and along meandering waterways. Walks range in length from 21/2 to 8 miles, with recommendations for autumn, winter, spring and summer. Highlights include: Spring: Far-reaching views from Harrock Hill and a carpet of bluebells in the woodlands of the Read Hall estate. Summer: Moorland tracks near the lost settlement of Gambleside and boat watching along the Lancaster Canal. Autumn: Exploring Pendle witch country near Barrowford and woodland colours around Hurst Green. Winter - Christmas decorations adorning the shoreline of Entwistle Reservoir and the winter wildlife around Marton Mere.

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With coastline making up half of the county's border, it's not surprising that Kent is blessed with some superb waterside walks. Add to that an eclectic mix of rivers, lakes and one of the few canals in South East England, and the Kentish walker is spoilt for choice when it comes to walks by the water. Here you'll find 20 circular walks, showcasing the best that the Garden of England has to offer. Routes vary in length between 2 and 8 miles, and each has a recommended refreshment stop. Highlights include: *Riverside walks through the Stour Valley near Chartham and Stodmarsh National Nature Reserve *Iconic coastal routes with views of the White Cliffs of Dover and Pegwell Bay *Gentle strolls through riverside villages of Farningham, Horton Kirby and Wateringbury *Birdwatching at Romney Marsh and Leybourne Lakes *Coastal circuits at Allhallows-On-Sea, Folkestone and the historic quayside at Faversham

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This walking guide contains 20 circular routes, covering the very best of Bristol and Bath's wide-ranging landscape - from high in the Mendip Hills down to the Somerset Levels; through stunning Cotswold villages and along meandering waterways right out to the shoreline of the Severn Estuary and the Bristol Channel. Walks range in length from 3 to 6 miles, with recommendations for autumn, winter, spring and summer. Highlights include: Spring: A carpet of bluebells in Leigh Woods and Hawkesbury Upton in the Cotswolds; Summer: A seaside stroll at Sand Bay; Autumn: Dramatic colours at Westonbirt Arboretum and the deer park at Ashton Court; Winter: Wintering wildfowl along the banks of the River Severn and the starling murmuration over the Somerset Levels

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This illustrated, easy reference guide is packed with all the information you need to help you date English furniture and bring its history to life. The book looks at many different furniture types, showing how form, style and the types of wood used changed from the Tudor period through to the Art Deco years of the 1930s. It highlights key details, what to look for when dating furniture, and introduces significant furniture designers and their importance. There's also a look at how changes in English society and fashion resulted in the introduction of specific pieces. The book should appeal to those who love antique shows on TV, and looking round antique shops and country houses, but would like to know more about furniture and the stories behind it.

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Discover Lincolnshire's beautiful countryside with this guide to some of the best walks in the county. The 15 circular routes vary in length from 4 to 7 miles and are centred on a broad variety of pubs - many of them award-winning, and all recommended for their good food and warm welcome. Explore the coast near Anderby Creek, the woods in the Wolds, the hills in the vales, the marshes of the fens, the dozens of canals and rivers, and take in views of the mighty Humber Bridge. Enjoy a city walk along England's oldest canal in Lincoln and climb the tower at Tattershall Castle to view the magnificent Lincolnshire countryside.

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Here is a collection of 20 tried and tested circular walks ranging in length between 2.5 and 8.5 miles. They include crucial dog-walking factors such as livestock, stiles and roads, with warnings in advance when a lead is necessary and when it's safe for your dog to run free. The routes pass by a number of quintessential English villages, many of which boast welcoming, dog-friendly pubs, along with ancient churches, remote hamlets, stunning views, idyllic cottages, imposing country manor houses and delightful nature reserves. But best of all there's plenty of places for your dog to run free when walking the Ridgeway.

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With everything from crystal-clear chalk streams to spectacular coastline, it's no exaggeration to say that Hampshire is blessed with some of the country's most beautiful water. These 20 Hampshire walks show off the county at its best. You'll explore famous rivers with walks along the Test and the Itchen, as well the lesser-known but equally attractive Wey, Dever and Alre. There are routes along peaceful tidal stretches, including the Beaulieu at Buckler's Hard and the Hamble at Bursledon, as well as glorious coastal walks on the Solent shore at Calshot and Pennington. The walks, which vary in length between 2 and 5 miles, are all circular and easy to follow. Each one offers an outing of discovery through some of the best of Hampshire's rich countryside.

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What better way to spend a leisurely few hours than to stretch your legs and visit a local pub? There are 20 circular routes in this book varying in length from 3 to 61/2 miles. At the heart of each is a renowned local pub - all of which have been recommended for their good food and warm welcome. Explore the picture-postcard villages of Bourton-on-the-Water and Guiting Power, the quiet lanes above the Upper Frome Valley around Sapperton and Miserden, and the far-reaching views of the high wolds above Northleach and Hillesley. You'll uncover golden stone cottages alongside tranquil rivers, sheltered valleys, ancient woodland and some spectacular views that make the classic English landscape of the Cotswolds such a great place to walk.

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20 of the best Hampshire & New Forest dog walks. This book contains a collection of the best dog-friendly walking routes in Hampshire & the New Forest, covering everything from wide-open coastal routes to tranquil country paths All are circular routes varying in length from 1 to 6 miles, designed with maximum off-lead time and minimum exposure to roads.Hampshire walks and New Forest walks your dog will love. HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE: Walks along the Basingstoke Canal, over Watership Down and through the Mottisfont Estate with its meadows and woodland; Meanders through the New Forest at Rhinefield, Smuggler's Road and Fritham; Coastal walks at Lepe, Barton and Titchfield; Lovely riverside walks beside the Alre and Itchen; ALL WALKS INCLUDE DETAILS OF: Livestock and stiles; Distance and terrain; Recommended dog-friendly refreshment stops; Contact details for the nearest vets; Where to park.

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Looking for the best places to walk your dog in Lancashire? This guide contains 20 great dog-friendly routes, all tried and tested by our expert canine colleagues and their owners. All are circular walks, with plenty of off-lead paths, varying in length from 2 to 7 miles. Highlights include: Coastal walks at Bolton-le-Sands and the salt marshes of Hest Bank; Waterside walks at Croasdale Brook and the Greenberfield Locks on the Leeds-Liverpool Canal; Woodland walks at Calder Vale; The wide-open spaces of Duddel Hill and the moorland around Anglezarke; Picturesque Healy Dell Nature Reserve with its rich wildlife and fascinating archaeological history; All the walks include details of: Livestock and stiles; Distance and terrain; Recommended dog-friendly refreshment stops; Contact details for the nearest vets; Where to park;

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A bestseller from the day it was published, this collection of 20 circular pub walks now appears in a new, updated and revised edition. Taking in stunning coastline, rolling countryside and the haven of the salt marshes and Broads, these circular Norfolk walks, all between 2 and 5 miles in length, explore the charm and natural beauty of the county's varied landscapes. At the heart of every walk is a great local pub. HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE: * The beautiful coast at Holme-next-the-Sea, Happisburgh and Brancaster * Far-reaching views and wide-open spaces near Colkirk, East Ruston and Thompson * Shimmering waters of the River Wensum at Ringland and the Yare at Bramerton * The Broads and surrounding marshes at Ranworth and Horsey * Norman ruins of Binham Priory and 15th-century Baconsthorpe Castle ALL THE WALKS INCLUDE: * Recommended local pubs * Numbered route map and directions * Parking info and how to get there * Points of interest along the way

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Step back in time to the golden age of railways. This is the story of Gloucestershire’s once-thriving rail network; a network of passenger and freight lines that criss-crossed the county at the turn of the 20th century. The first long-distance main line to arrive in the county was the Birmingham & Gloucester which opened in 1840. This was soon followed by the Swindon via Stroud and the Bristol to Gloucester lines, and in 1851 the South Wales Railway between Gloucester, Chepstow and Newport was opened. These main lines are still with us today, but what of the other 250 miles of lines that were built with hope and enthusiasm? In this meticulously researched book, Stan Yorke brings to life the county's railways and describes the reasons for their construction and for their subsequent closure. Modern photographs accompany those from earlier times. These, together with specially drawn maps, will help the enthusiast to explore some of the old lines and stations that have survived.

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This is a guide to the style of houses built in the 1930s. Tradition continued to dominate the outside while inside art deco was all the rage. It contains many photographs and detailed drawings.

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This is a collection of twenty circular routes for those who enjoy a country drive to an attractive spot for a refreshing walk. It includes routes near Hartland Point, South Molton, Honiton, Exeter and Plymouth, along with maps and photographs.

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A comprehensive guide for those researching their ancestors in all three armed services - the Army, the Royal Navy, and the Royal Air Force.

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The Blackpool Aviation week in 1909 marked the beginning. Early pioneers performed a number of flying feats which were rewarded with prizes given by the Daily Mail and the then Manchester Guardian. After this Henry Greg Melly set up a flying school on Freshfield beach at Formby and A V Roe founded his AVRO company. Meanwhile, English Electric decided to open up an aircraft building firm based at Samlesbury near Preston. They produced the Hampden and Halifax bombers used during the Second World War. Ron Freethy's well researched book also includes many firsthand accounts provided by local people from their own memories and those of their parents. These bring the story alive and, combined with many photographs, create a lasting record of the county's place in British aviation history.

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The military photographs in family albums stand out as different and distinctive and the sight of an ancestor in uniform stirs thoughts of what he or she did and where they served. Neil Storey offers advice on identifying military uniforms, badges, insignia, ranks, medals and the equipment worn by our military ancestors. These items can provide a wealth of information about the person or people in the photograph and can lead to many new avenues of research. The book covers our Nation's military history from the 1870's to the 1940's.

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In this excellently researched book, Graham Smith describes the air war in Cambridgeshire, and the young airmen who flew night after night against desperate odds. It was from Cambridgeshire airfields that the legendary Pathfinder Force first took to the skies, making targets for the force of bombers behind them. The bravery, determination and resolve of the 'Bomber Men' must never, ever be forgotten.

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With its big skies, wildlife-rich Broads, stunning coastline and sandy heaths, Norfolk is an ideal place to walk. This book, with its 20 circular walks ranging in length from 2 to 7 miles, takes you along the coast and through forests, fens and farmland to the area's finest spots. The book is split into seasons, with recommendations for the best walks for specific times of year. Highlights include: Spring: ramble through the bluebell-carpeted woods of Foxley Wood or hunt for swallowtail butterflies at Wheatfen; Summer: explore the sandy seaside of Holme Dunes or the unusual landscape and pingos at Thompson Common; Autumn: spot seals just off Horsey's coastal dunes or admire the sea view from the cliffs between Overstrand and Cromer; Winter: take a brisk winter wander on the Sandringham Estate or enjoy the wildness of The Wash estuary at Snettisham All walks include: Directions to the start; Parking info; Numbered route map and directions; Distance and terrain; Recommended local pubs and cafes; Points of interest along the way

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This collection of 20 short, circular walks nearBristol & Bath was put together with families in mind. Perfect for youngerand older walkers, and those looking for a brief outing. Explore the beautiful rivers, reservoirs, estuaryand gorges that this area is famous for.

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Explore London's countryside beyond the end of the line. A book of 26 walks which explore the landscape at the end of the London Underground. Have you ever wondered about those mysterious destinations displayed on the indicator boards of the London Underground? Have you ever thought of travelling to these distant outposts of the metropolis to see what they are actually like? Now there is a reason to set out and investigate all the terminus points of the London Underground. Discover a treasure trove of wonderful countryside, canals, rivers, lakes, parks, heaths, hills and valleys, forests and woods on these walks all just beyond the end of the line.

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This illustrated, action-packed book contains a full account of the part played by Suffolk's airfields during the Second World War. The history of each airfield is described, with details of the planes and the pilots who flew them, and the local civilians who worked alongside them. The subject is brought vividly to life with detailed accounts, alongside photos of the airmen themselves and their aircraft. The build-up of the RAF air offensive after 1940, and the arrival of the huge USAAF Eighth Air Force in 1942, meant that by early 1945 in Suffolk alone, there were some 1300 aircraft flying from 32 airfields. This book details the history of these airfields - RAF or USAAF - and highlights the major wartime operations and the many and varied aircraft that comprised the operational squadrons. Numbered among them are the Blenheim, Wellington, Stirling, Lancaster, Liberator, Flying Fortress, Spitfire, Hurricane, Thunderbolt, Mustang and the Sunderland Flying Boat. These, and the young airmen who flew them, made an immense contribution to the final defeat of the Third Reich, as Allied bombers and fighters flew increasingly larger raids across the North Sea and into the dangerous, smoke-filled skies of occupied Europe. This is their incredible story.

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In this concise illustrated guide, Stan Yorke tells the story of the Industrial Revolution in Britain, simplifying an otherwise complicated subject with his easy-to-follow writing style. Illustrations, photography and detailed line drawings by Trevor Yorke bring the subject vividly to life. At its core, this is the story of how machines changed the face of industry and farming in Britain in the 18th and 19th centuries. What kick-started the Industrial Revolution? How did the machines actually work? How does this period of seismic change continue to influence our lives today? All these questions and more are covered here. The book is split into four sections. Section I looks at the historical background to the revolution, showing that it was a steady accumulation of knowledge and skills, rather than a sudden step-change, that characterised this period. Section II looks in detail at the four major industrial areas that are well represented in our museums, explaining how the basic machines work and how the processes were developed. Take a peek at the inner workings of the steam engine, weaving loom and many more. Section III looks at the supporting cast that enabled this vast expansion: factories, buildings, agriculture, canals and railways for example. Section IV provides recommendations for further exploration of the subject (including the best museums to visit), along with a list of notable inventions, surprising statistics and a glossary of terms The Industrial Revolution Explained is the perfect introduction for anyone who wants to find out more about the technology that drove this incredible period of invention and expansion in British history.

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This collection of 20 short, circular walks in Derbyshire and the Peak District was put together with families in mind. Perfect for younger and older walkers, and those looking for a brief excursion, the shortest route is just over 11/2 miles and all are under 4 miles. Explore the woodland, farm fields, reservoirs and, of course, valleys and gorges that make Derbyshire and the Peak District one of the most beautiful and varied places to walk. Fertile plains, limestone dales and rugged moorlands all feature, and there are spectacular views throughout. All walks include parking options, highlights, easy-to-follow numbered directions and suggestions for refreshment stops along the way.

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Are you ready to step inside the world of period homes? To unlock the secrets of the iconic buildings we see throughout the cities, towns and villages of Britain? Then this is the book for you. Period homes are all around us. Not only are they charming homes for those lucky enough to live in them, but they also give the community in which they're set a distinguished character and a link with the past. Yet sometimes it's hard to know exactly which features to look at in order to date these buildings. Or what to look for if you need to replace an original fitting. This book aims to help the reader recognise the common architectural styles and original features from each period, whether they just want to find out more about a particular property, or are trying to restore one. If you're in the middle of a renovation, for example, and you want to know which original window style you should be installing, you'll find it here. All styles and periods are covered - from graceful Regency terraces with elegant iron balconies and muscular Victorian houses with colourful stained glass, to Edwardian homes with white patterned timber work, and stylish 1930s semis with curved suntrap windows. From glasswork and doors to fireplaces and floors (plus everything in between) this is a treasure trove of information about the British period homes we love.

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This collection of 20 tried-and-tested circular walks, all between 4 and 6 miles, has been written specifically for dogs and their owners, allowing for maximum off-lead time. At the heart of every walk is a dog friendly pub. Walk highlights include classic seaside routes taking in Whitstable, Tankerton, Sandgate & Hythe; a stretch of the beautiful Pilgrims' Way; the meadows and fields around the North Downs; and the picturesque villages of Fordwich and Trottiscliffe. All the walks include details of: * Recommended dog friendly pubs * Distance and terrain * Details of livestock and stiles * Numbered route directions * Points of interest along the way * Contact details for the nearest vets

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Discover the beautiful countryside around North Yorkshire with this guide to some of the best walks in the county. The 20 circular routes vary in length from 3 to 8 miles and are each centred on a broad variety of welcoming pubs recommended for their good food. Explore the meadows and woodland around Forge Valley and Grosmont, the waterfalls at Grassington and West Burton, waterside walks along the River Nidd and River Wharfe, some lovely villages and the attractive coastline around Robin Hood's Bay. Above all, you'll get to enjoy the magnificent views with routes covering parts of the Yorkshire Wolds, the Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors. Keith Wadd lives in North Yorkshire. He is a vice-president of the Ramblers' Association, is strongly committed to protecting public paths and rights of access, and is the author of several successful books of walks.

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Suffolk, with its glorious coastline, charming villages and medieval towns, is a walker's delight. The twenty circular walks in this book vary in length from 3 to 6 miles and are enjoyable all year round. The author has divided the routes into seasons to show each at its very best. In spring, the fen meadows and ancient woodland near Agner Fen and Sutton Hoo are a sea of bluebells. On a fine day in summer the River Deben and Minsmere are alive with birds and butterflies. Autumn brings colour to the woods near Hintlesham and the rolling parkland around Ickworth House. The coastal lagoon of Brenacre Broad and the gallops of Newmarket provide good winter walking. The countryside covered is infinitely varied and often spectacular. All the walks include details of: * How to get to the start * Where to park * Numbered route map and directions * Distance and terrain * Recommended local pubs and cafes * Points of interest along the way

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A collection of 20 tried and tested circular walks with plenty of opportunities for dogs to roam safely off lead. The routes vary in length from 2 to 6 miles and provide a great introduction for dogs and their owners to the superb landscape of West Sussex; exploring the high chalk grasslands of the South Downs; ancient woodland in the Low Weald; and scenic routes by the Ardingly Reservoir. There are plenty of opportunities for dogs to roam safely off lead in St Leonard's Forest, Houghton Forest or Hammonds Wood. Or for dogs who love water there are bracing walks by the coast, along the river Adur and the Wey and Arun Canal.

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Here is a collection of 20 tried and tested circular routes chosen for walkers with dogs. They include crucial dog factors such as livestock, stiles and roads, with warnings in advance when a lead is necessary and when it's safe to run free. There are also contact details for the nearest vets and recommended dog friendly pubs and cafes. Clear numbered route directions and a corresponding map for each route keep walkers on the right track and there are plenty of opportunities for dogs to roam safely off lead. The routes vary in length from 2 1/2 to 5 1/2 miles and provide a great introduction for dogs and their owners to the stunning Chilterns countryside. There are walks through beech woods, including at Great and Little Missenden; waterside walks by reservoirs near Tring, chalk streams, and the Wendover Arm; and bracing routes along the tops of hills at Ivinghoe, Dunstable Downs and West Wycombe. Many of the routes explore National Trust beauty spots; through ancient woodland and downland in the Ashridge Estate; in the rolling parkland of Hughenden; and high up on chalk and grassland at Whipsnade and Totternhoe.

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There's nowhere in the country to compare with the Lake District and now dogs and their owners can enjoy walking across this dramatic landscape with 20 stimulating circular walks chosen and researched specifically for dog walkers. The routes are mainly off-road, with easily passed stiles and avoiding grazing live-stock wherever possible, or warning where you might need to put your dog on a lead. The walks range from 1 mile to an invigorating 8 miles and offer plenty of opportunities to explore the Lake District's soaring fells, stunning lakes, picturesque valleys and forests packed with scent and adventure. There are stunning lakeside walks by Tarn Hows, Elterwater and Rydal Water; scenic woodland walks in Whinlatter and exploring Grizedale Forest with its many trails and sculptures to discover; climbing one of Wainwright's legendary peaks at Dodd Fell; and exploring castles at Kendal and Sizergh. There is also information on warm and welcoming pubs and cafes where you and your dog can stop for refreshments, as well as contact details for the nearest vets.

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Hampshire and the New Forest offer many opportunities for excellent cycling. The 20 circular routes vary in length from 16 to 27 miles and are fully described in the text and shown on the accompanying maps. Perfect for leisure cyclists, family groups and even the seasoned cyclist. There are routes through the beautiful landscape and charming villages of the New Forest around Damerham, Fritham and Burley; along stretches of delightful coastline at Buckler's Hard and Lepe with truly exhilarating views from the South Downs and the 'Hampshire Highlands' around Hurstbourne Tarrant; and along the lush valleys of the river Itchen and the Meon with their abundance of wildlife.

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