Search results for ""batsford""

A practical guide to modern calligraphy, complete with worksheets and projects. In Modern Lettering, you will learn how to create beautiful decorative handwriting in a variety of styles. It’s a fun and immersive guide, inviting you to explore beautiful letterforms, experiment with your own hand-lettering style and use calligraphy for creative projects. Professional calligrapher Rebecca Cahill Roots guides the reader through the basic techniques, sharing useful tips along the way. She brings her own unique style to a range of beautiful modern calligraphy alphabets, each accompanied by worksheets printed on high-quality calligraphy paper for practising. There are tips for mixing fonts, using different coloured inks and beginner’s brush calligraphy. Once you’ve mastered the basic techniques, you can apply your handwriting skills to some of the stylish step-by-step projects featured, including wedding stationery, framed quotes and personalised envelopes. This fun and approachable guide is a must-have for anyone looking to add a personal touch to their lettering, whether it’s for a particular project or for taking up a new hobby.

Read more less

A practical companion to help kids enjoy outdoor activities and adventures even when it's rainy, snowy or windy. As the weather turns into autumn and the kids start watching more television and stare at the computer, how can you get them out and about to enjoy the cooler months? Outdoor enthusiasts Steph and Katie are teachers and mothers and have years of experience of finding new and novel ways to get kids to enjoy the great outdoors, whatever the weather. This great little tome is packed with ideas for games, activities and nature crafts that are perfectly suited to the autumnal and winter months of rain and wind. Activities range from puddle painting and making your own nature paint brushes, to making wind spinners from golden leaves and feathers. Why not try puddle pouncing or raindrop racing, or create a pool and spa for an elf? Or make a leafy woven kite, windmill or nature parachute for the windy weather? Nature offers loads of autumnal bits and bobs just waiting for a creative hand. And if you don't want to stay out for too long, the book lists things to collect outdoors for taking home and used for stay-at-home projects. The book encourages youngsters to see the excitement of wind, snow, rain and to enjoy the elements with fun projects that excite the imagination.

Read more less

Textile Landscapes demonstrates how to develop your approach to textile art with a focus on using found objects and paint and stitch on cloth and paper. Cas explains how to exploit the contrast between the hands-on textural quality of working with fabrics and threads and the spontaneity and movement of brush marks to lend a painterly quality to your work. She begins with the basics – keeping a sketchbook to generate ideas, painting and stitching on cloth and on paper and working digitally; Inspiring Landscapes looks at natural and urban space, the changing seasons and great landscapes as well as intimate spaces and travel diaries; Painting and Marking with Cloth explains the practical aspects of painting and dyeing cloth and how to make connections between paint, print, dye, stencil and stitch; Stitch-scapes looks at the different forms of landscape, experimenting with photographs and prints and how to translate those images using ink, stitch, abstract and collage techniques and then at how to transform the image using digital techniques; On Closer Inspection covers using elements and details from landscape and the environment as found objects and for research; finally People and Place explores the relationship we have with the outdoors and the built environment, as well as personal interpretations of place. The book includes artworks by the author that explore the UK, USA, Europe and Australia, as well as works by other internationally renowned textile artists. A creative guide ideal for textile artists of all levels – students, teachers and practising artists and makers – to make unique and beautiful work inspired by the world around us.

Read more less

A highly entertaining book debunking the many myths about the human body. Everything You Know About the Human Body is Wrong debunks the scientific myths we all take for granted. Written by author Matt Brown in his trademark humourous style, this book takes you through all the facts we thought true, from bodily blunders, medical mis-quotes and curious cures. Does giving kids sugar make them go hyper-active? Not at all – there is no proven link! Is there such a thing as being 'double-jointed'? And is it dangerous to swim after eating? Covering everything from pseudoscience to recent research, Everything You Know About the Human Body is Wrong shatters a range of illusions we have accepted unquestioningly since childhood and demystifies this most puzzling of subjects.

Read more less

A book of prints taken from the international bestseller Millie Marotta's Animal Kingdom. Millie Marotta's Animal Kingdom was the publishing sensation of 2015. Her illustrations have taken the world by storm, and her book has sold over 5 million copies. In this Book of Prints, 20 of Millie's favourite prints are provided one sided, on super thick card that are easily detachable. Readers can use pens, pencils, and even paints to decorate them and frame them or keep. But they also work as beautiful standalone works of art just as they are. From octopus to dragonflies, from butterflies to fish, from whales to rhinos, there is something to delight all Millie fans and those new to her art.

Read more less

Drawing on the resources of English Heritage’s unrivalled photographic archives, The Thames Through Times is a photographic journey along the length of the tidal river and over almost 150 years. We see the rural Thames as it approaches London, riverside towns, the civic and commercial development of the riverbanks, the working docks and warehouses, the development of the web of bridges that now links north and south, barges, sailing ships and warships, the great flood defences and a tiny beach that flourished briefly at the Tower of London. Featuring the work of pioneers of photography and some of the great topographical photographers of the 20th century, and with a fascinating commentary by Stephen Croad, The Thames Through Time chronicles the ebb and flow of the life of the river.

Read more less

The most inspirational buildings in the world, as chosen by well-known contemporary architects. In this book, published in conjunction with the Twentieth Century Society, 50 contemporary architects choose the buildings from around the world that have inspired them and made an impact on their own work. Architectural journalist Pamela Buxton interviewed each of the architects to create these outstanding portraits of the buildings that have influenced modern architecture. The diverse selection is introduced by Twentieth Century Society director Catherine Croft, and illustrated throughout with photographs by Gareth Gardne and Edward Tyler. The book features a diverse range of inspirational buildings, from housing estates to castles, coal mines to cathedrals. Work by the giants of twentieth-century architecture including Le Corbusier, Mies van der Rohe and Alvar Aalto are featured, as well as lesser-known gems. Examples include Richard Rogers (of RHSP) on Maison de Verre (Paris, France); Chris Williamson (of Weston Williamson) on the Eames House by Charles and Ray Eames (Los Angeles, USA); Takero Shimazaki (of T-SA, UK) on Hexenhaus by Alison and Peter Smithson (Bad Karlshafen, Germany); Ted Cullinan (of Cullinan Studio) on Chapel of Notre Dame Du Haut by Le Corbusier (Ronchamp, France); Michael Squire (of Squire & Partners, UK) on Grundtvig’s Church by Peder Vilhelm Jensen-Klint (Copenhagen, Denmark); and Jonathan Woolf (of Jonathan Woolf Architects) on Haus Esters and Haus Lange by Mies van der Rohe (Krefeld, Germany). This beautifully produced book offers a great insight into the power of existing architecture and its immense influence on the world we build today.

Read more less

Following on from the hugely successful Millie Marotta's Animal Kingdom, this three-journal set is a beautiful gift for yourself or a friend. Each journal features a stunning illustration by Millie Marotta with sparkling gold foiling on the cover. They consist of 64 pages, one journal with plain paper and two with rules for writing, as well as stunning motifs from Millie Marotta's Animal Kingdom dotted throughout the pages. These are the perfect notebooks for any creative work, school or business notes, diary entries or plain old doodling.

Read more less

The events of your life, from local walks to exotic trips, can provide endless inspiration for textile art. This inspiring book shows you how to record your experiences, using sketchbooks, journals and photography, to create personal narratives that can form a starting point for more finished stitched-textile pieces. Acclaimed textile artist and teacher Cas Holmes, whose work is often inspired by her life and the journeys she makes, helps you find inspiration through your own life and explains how to record what you see in sketchbooks and journals, which can often become beautiful objects in themselves. She explains how you can use photography, both as documentation and as inspiration, and sometimes incorporate it into the work itself, along with found objects and ephemera. Throughout the book are useful techniques that can be harnessed to add extra interest to your work, such as methods for making layered collages, how to 'sketch' with stitch, and advice on design and colour. If you want to create beautiful, unique work inspired by your life and travels, this is the perfect book for you.

Read more less

Like New York, London can be enjoyed all day and all night. This insider's guide gives you the gen on where, when and how to enjoy London at any hour. It covers places to stay, places to eat, drink, dance and be entertained and informed. Including all the main and famous places in London but with the added twist of highlighting some of the lesser-known parks, palaces and museums. The book is structured by hours of the day, so it gives the ideal time to do any number of great things in a great city, from breakfast places and tea at 4, to cocktails at 6 and midnight walks. Discover gin palaces, walks beside the Thames, Hawksmoor churches and haunted pubs with this indispensable guide. Each entry lists the nearest tube stop so this grand city can be explored with an Oyster card! Author Matt Brown from legendary London blog the Londonist is probably the most London-obsessed person there is. He brings his own extensive knowledge of the city to the book, revealing an array of new experiences even for the long-term Londoner and the discerning tourist. With London Underground going 24 hours in September, this is a timely book to discover some of the hidden charms of this fascinating city.

Read more less

The great Mikhail Botvinnik, world champion said: 'The foundation of chess is exchanging/' Knowing when and what to exchange or trade in chess is essential to improve your game, and this is the only book to help you do that. In chess an exchange or trade of chessmen is a series of closely related moves, typically sequential, in which the two players capture each other’s pieces. All chess pieces may be exchanged or captured in an exchange – apart from the king which however can capture an opponent’s piece. Either the player of the white or the black pieces may make the first capture of the other player's piece in an exchange, followed by the other player capturing a piece of the first player, often referred to as a recapture. These maneouvres happen throughout chess, but understanding when and how to do this to your best advantage can improve your game significantly. Written by the hugely popular chess writer, Andrew Soltis, My Kingdom for a Horse tells you whether you should exchange your bishop for a knight, which pair of bishops you should exchange, when you should keep rooks on the board and when should you refuse to trade anything. This unique book will provide the answers on an important and integral part of chess strategy.

Read more less

England's Post-War Listed Buildings is a comprehensive and stylish guide to over 500 of the country's most striking and historically relevant architectural gems, from private houses to schools, churches, military buildings, monuments and parks. Listed buildings include traditional works by Raymond Erith and Donald McMorran and many of the 'pop icons' of the 1960s (including Centre Point). Also featured are internationally outstanding modern works like Stirling and Gowan's Leicester Engineering Building and Foster Associates' offices for Willis Faber Dumas in Ipswich. This fully updated and expanded edition contains numerous new entries arranged in an accessible, regional structure, as well as features on telephone boxes, landscapes, memorials and sculptures. Each entry is illustrated with photographs and includes information on architect, date of construction and listing grade date, as well as a detailed description of the site and what makes it unique.

Read more less

Those special occasions in life all need to be marked with words bigger and better than those we could compose ourselves. This beautiful collection includes some of the best readings and poems to help you mark anything from a birth to a death, an engagement to a retirement, a wedding to a memorial service. Poems and readings from the best British and American writers and poets are arranged into the chapters: New Life, Childhood, Love, Unions, Getting Older, Solitude and Loss. The works of poets Longfellow, Walt Whitman and Emily Dickinson rub shoulders with those of William Blake, Wordsworth and W.H. Auden. The readings come from writers ranging from Churchill to Shakespeare. Mixed in are Apache prayers and Irish blessings to make this a rich reference for anyone looking for the right word at the right moment. It is lavishly illustrated with nostalgic images, making this a wonderful gift.

Read more less

Following on from her bestselling first book 'Contemporary Quilts', award-winning contemporary quilt artist Sandra Meech explains how to harness your own creativity to add innovation and depth to your quilt and embroidery work. In 'Creative Quilts', she shows you how to take inspiration from a wealth of sources, including art, textiles and architecture, and gives special emphasis to journals and sketchbooks. The book contains full instructions for a range of exciting techniques, including surface embellishment, mixed-media techniques, and taking quilt work into three dimensions, plus practical advice on exhibiting work. Special 'Creativity Plus' and 'Design Workshop' exercises help you to develop confidence in your own creativity. Illustrated with work from the world's leading quilt and textile artists, this book is both a practical workbook and a precious source of inspiration.

Read more less

The book takes the reader through all the major steps of fashion portfolio creation. It features the main components of the design process from the identification of inspiration sources and fashion trends research to conceptualization of a complete fashion collection. The topics covered include mood/fabric boards development, creation of original and innovative textiles as well as fashion silhouettes and garment details development through extensive research, quick design sketching, fabric manipulation, and draping experimentation. Great original designs and illustrations by the author as well as design sketch samples by established designers are provided throughout. There are samples of sketchbooks from professional and emerging fashion artists. The book provides some insight from established fashion and accessories designers on the highlights and challenges of the creative process. It is a great professional reference for techniques in the portfolio development. A beautiful but practical book that provides useful techniques and helps the reader get inside the mind of the designer.

Read more less

Long did she reign and peacefully may she rest: this beautiful and thoughtful tribute to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II celebrates the life of a remarkable woman whose 70 years on the throne made her the longest-reigning monarch in British History. Royal biographer Brian Hoey describes the childhood, accession and coronation of young Elizabeth, and chronicles her extraordinary and dignified transfiguration into beloved wife, mother and grandmother during her seven decades of unflagging service and dedication as Queen of the United Kingdom and Head of the Commonwealth. He also explains the constitutional roles and public duties of this accomplished stateswoman, conducted with such outstanding grace and professionalism throughout her life. As the royal family, her country, and countless people around the world prepare to say goodbye, he describes all the honour and ceremony one would expect to be lavished on this cherished sovereign and considers the everlasting effect that her work, life, and legacy will continue to have for many years to come.

Read more less

Bridgerton's England is a location guide to all the key filming sites in the hit Netflix series with author Antonia Hicks linking each fictional location to its real-life counterpart. Winston Churchill's former gentleman's retreat, The Reform Club, becomes 'Whites Club' where Anthony Bridgerton and Simon Basset meet to discuss infidelities and smoke cigars, and 18th-century dress shop 'Modiste' is a deli in Bath's Abbey Street. Readers can learn about the locations used for the Bridgertons, Featheringtons, Lady Danbury, the Duke of Hastings, Queen Charlotte, Whites, Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens, Somerset House, Primrose Hill, and Cliveden Castle. Sites include Stowe and Painshill Park, Henry VIII's Hampton Court, Castle Howard, Bath's Royal Crescent, Holburne Art Museum, Wilton House, Lancaster House and the most upmarket Air Force officer's mess in the world! This is the perfect book for fans of the show but also of grand stately homes and sweeping classical landscapes that producers Chris Van Dusen and Shonda Rhimes picked to bring Julia Quinn's novels to life on the screen. Almost all the stately homes, houses, parks and gardens used in Bridgerton are open to the public and the book examines their history, linking important scenes to each location and giving details of where and when you can visit them to relive the drama.

Read more less

Mary Queen of Scots is perhaps the most romantic and tragic figure in British history. Was her tragic life a product of bad luck, bad advice, or ambition? Destined to marry the Dauphin of France and reign as his queen, his early death changed Mary's life. As claimant then in France, England and Scotland, there are many mysteries and unanswered questions in the tragedies that befell her. This fascinating book looks at Mary Queen of Scot's life and death. Angela Royston examines Mary's early life as the Infant Queen before her childhood in France, moving onto her time in Scotland and her scandalous marriage to Lord Darnley, and Mary's imprisonment and execution after being charged with treason. A must for any student of history or visitor to England, this revised edition of a Pitkin classic is filled with colour photographs and reproductions of historical artworks and artefacts to illuminate the life of Mary Queen of Scots.

Read more less

For centuries the great religious buildings of Great Britain have inspired and fascinated pilgrims and visitors from around the world. The beauty and diversity of British ecclesiastical architecture is superbly captured in this guide to over 60 of Britain’s finest cathedrals. This definitive guide contains over 130 magnificent colour photographs that capture the enduring appeal of these great monuments to the Christian tradition. Extended entries are included on Durham Cathedral, York Minster, Lincoln Cathedral, Norwich Cathedral, Gloucester Cathedral, Ely Cathedral, Winchester Cathedral, Salisbury Cathedral, Exeter Cathedral, St Paul’s Cathedral, Canterbury Cathedral, Glasgow Cathedral, St David’s Cathedral. This definitive guide contains over 130 magnificent colour photographs that capture the enduring appeal of these great monuments to the Christian tradition. Extended entries are included on Durham Cathedral, York Minster, Lincoln Cathedral, Norwich Cathedral, Gloucester Cathedral, Ely Cathedral, Winchester Cathedral, Salisbury Cathedral, Exeter Cathedral, St Pauls Cathedral, Canterbury Cathedral, Glasgow Cathedral, St Davids Cathedral.

Read more less

Henry Tudor is probably the best known king in English history, most famous for having had six wives. Henry wanted immortality, not as a notorious husband, but as a king who made England strong and powerful. Essential to that, he believed, was the provision of a male heir, but Henry became so desperate to father a legitimate son that he divorced one wife, beheaded another, disposed of two chief ministers and declared himself head of the Church in England. His personality was overwhelming. He could be boisterously playful and passionately in love, but, as disappointments mounted, he became increasingly bitter and tyrannical. This seminal Pitkin guide to one of England's greatest monarchs has been revised and updated for 2019. Fully illustrated throughout in a fresh, contemporary style, and featuring all the lavish paintings of the time, it also includes all the latest representations of Henry VIII in the media, as well as a list of relevant locations to visit.

Read more less

Queen Elizabeth I’s reign is amongst the most exciting and fascinating of any period of English history. She was a glamourous queen who ruled a vibrant nation full of legendary figures: Robert Dudley, Francis Drake, Walter Raleigh, the Earl of Essex were all international celebrities of their day. Great events unfolded, with triumphs such as the defeat of the Spanish Armada, and tragedies, including the long-term imprisonment and execution of Mary Queen of Scots. With love affairs, wily politicians, sinister plots and intrigues at the royal court, Elizabeth’s reign was a long-running drama; it is appropriate that William Shakespeare was writing at the time, and characters and events of his plays often mirrored Elizabethan life. But it was Queen Elizabeth who was the star of the story, holding centre stage over a glittering royal court. In this seminal Pitkin text by G.W.O. Woodward, revised and updated by Gill Knappett for 2019, read how Gloriana reigned in dazzling majesty over an exciting new age of exploration, discovery, artistic brilliance, architectural achievement, foreign conquest and prosperity. This beautifully illustrated biography is part of the Pitkin Royal Collection series, celebrating the lives of the British royal family. Other notable titles in this insightful series include Royal Babies, The Queen and Her Family and Queen Elizabeth II.

Read more less

The expertly written text offers an insight into the private and public life of the heir to the throne of England, from his early years at Buckingham Palace through to his education at Gordonstoun and Trinity College, Cambridge, as well as his time in the Royal Navy. With a wide range of humanitarian and social interests, Charles is patron to a number of charities and organisations, including The Princes’s Trust, founded in 1976. He has played a central role as father to Princes William and Harry and his devotion and dedication to his mother, Queens Elizabeth II, is outstanding. This beautifully illustrated biography is part of the Pitkin Royal Collection series, celebrating the lives of the British royal family. Other notable titles in this insightful series include Royal Babies, The Queen and Her Family and Queen Elizabeth II.

Read more less

One of the most exhilarating cities in the world, London is steeped in history whilst embracing innovation. Its skyline is a mix of old and new, with the beautiful architectural splendour of St Paul’s Cathedral sitting comfortably alongside the staggering modernity of new high rises. The pomp and ceremony of quintessential British culture remains very much on show, from Changing the Guard to the Lord Mayor’s Show and tea at The Ritz. With world-famous museums, art galleries, theatres, eight royal parks, shops, restaurants and a buzzing nightlife, London has something on offer for everyone. The latest Pitkin guide to London is a fresh, updated edition of our best-seller In and Around London. This guidebook celebrates the most famous icons in our English heritage, as well as introducing the newest architectural additions to the city’s skyline – from museums to The Shard. The book showcases all these top attractions in a fun and accessible manner, offering exciting facts and anecdotes as well as significant historical information. At 44 pages, London is compact enough to fit into a bag or a small piece of hand luggage, but it is still an insightful read. Whether it is an expedition through the museums - back in time to ancient London, following the footsteps of one of the most famous royal families in the world or indulging in the countless eateries, theatres and shopping hubs, this text is the perfect companion to any tourist visiting London.

Read more less

This fun little book, containing 200 fantastic facts about the Christmas season as well as 90 illustrations, will delight readers everywhere this Christmas.

Read more less

Did you know that Winston Churchill spent his twenty-fifth birthday as a prisoner of war? Or that he fought in the trenches during the First World War? Churchill once had dinner with the king in No. 10’s air-raid shelter, and his chickens lived in a shed, built by Winston, called ‘Chickenham Palace’. These and many other fun facts about this great historical figure and his life are all contained within this little book, which, together with more than 100 illustrations, will delight Churchill fans everywhere!

Read more less

The story of William and Catherine â the couple who have captured the hearts of the nation and, indeed, the world â from their first meeting to their fairytale wedding, the birth and christening of Prince George, and royal events and engagements up to the joyous arrival of Princess Charlotte.

Read more less

Textus Roffensis was written out by a scribe in 1122 - he was copying out a code of law that had first been issued by Ethelbert, the first Christian King of Kent, in about 607. These were the first laws to be written in English for Englishmen. Today, this manuscript remains in the care of Rochester Cathedral. Following the Norman Conquest, at a time of great change, the monks of Rochester felt their independence and financial security were under threat. To defend themselves and secure their future they wrote Textus Roffensis. It provided the monks with an effective legal code with which to reinforce their claims to privileges and possessions. The book is made up of two parts and it is not known why they were bound together - an expensive process. One theory is that the monks were attempting to hide evidence of forged manuscripts. Produced by Rochester Cathedral, and including images of the pages themselves, this book outlines the intriguing history of Textus Roffensis.

Read more less

The 1970s are noted as the decade of strikes, the winter of discontent and the three-day week. But is this the full story; what was it really like for ordinary British people? In this book, Carol Harris looks at the stories and people who made the headlines – from Thatcher and David Bowie to Barbie and Ken – but also how ordinary people really lived at the time; how we worked and played, how we shopped, what we ate, wore, drove, watched and listened to. Britain went decimal and was introduced to the VHS player and the microwave, Gary Glitter and Elton John entertained us and fashion gave us punks, hippies and glam rockers all at once. This book will bring back memories for those who were there, and, for those who were not yet born, it will give them an idea of what the 70s were really like.

Read more less

Sir Robert Hunter (1844–1913) is one of three figures regarded as the principal founders of the National Trust. It was he who came up with the idea for the organization, paved the way for its legal creation and served as its first Chairman. Hunter was never one to crave public attention; nevertheless he was a highly influential figure behind the scenes of the late-Victorian movement for landscape and building preservation in Britain. His love of nature, of open spaces, and of the infinite pleasures to be had from countryside resulted in the saving of open landscapes – including preventing the enclosure of Hampstead Heath and Epping Forest¬ – along with the protection of footpaths and ancient monuments. Hunter’s death aged 69 in 1913 was a tragic loss. A century later we remember the many achievements of this ‘faithful servant of the people’.

Read more less

Over 4,000 years of history lie in the seams of British mines, beginning all the way back in the New Stone Age. Large-scale coal mining in Britain developed during the Industrial Revolution, providing energy for industry and transportation in industrial areas from the 18th century to the 1950s. This classic Pitkin guide provides a history of mining in Britain as well as of the hard lives of those who worked in them. Child labour was a normal part of Victorian life, so women and children were found in the dangerous deep pits until 1842, while male miners relied on safety lamps and canaries to avoid mining disasters. Fascinating photographs accompany this guide’s history of these people’s lives, including their time outside of the mines, their homes and hobbies. Whole villages grew up around mines, with close comradeship and tightly knit mining communities emerging. Here is the story of what that life was like for so many, up until British mining's decline in the 19th and 20th centuries. Includes a list of mines, museums and heritage centres to visit.

Read more less

How is the world of Alice in Wonderland linked to that of the young girl who was the inspiration for this much-loved story? The words written by Charles Dodgson (whose pen-name was Lewis Carroll), an Oxford don, were based on college life, word-play and, above all, his friendship with the Liddell children – Alice and her sisters, Lorina and Edith. The Dormouse was referring to Lorina Charlotte (LC), Lacie is an anagram of Alice and Tillie was Edith’s nickname. This charming little gift book links the lives of the real Alice, the daughter of the Dean of Christ Church, Oxford, and her friend, the supreme story-teller Charles Dodgson. Amongst other intrigues, the book explains the significance of the Dodo, the old turtle who ‘taught us’, and the treacle well, all interspersed with quotations from both Alice in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass.

Read more less

Seen from the air, London takes on a whole new look. This new edition of the ever-popular Pitkin Guide Over London features all-new stunning aerial photography. This bird s-eye view takes in all the most famous sights, including Buckingham Palace and Nelson s column, Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament, the sweep of the Thames and the awe-inspiring London Eye, The Tower of London and Docklands, Kensington Palace and Covent Garden, St Paul s Cathedral and the City, the British Museum and the Globe and beyond to the splendours of Greenwich, Wimbledon, Wembley, Kew, Hampton Court, Windsor Castle and Eton College. Included too are scenes of how London is developing and changing as preparations for the Olympic Games to be held in the city in 2012 take shape. Includes map.

Read more less

When the Romans came to Britain in AD 43, they brought a new style of domestic life, one that better-off Britons soon copied. This informative guide looks at how villas were built, and at the accommodation and daily life villa residents enjoyed - their living rooms and bedrooms, kitchens and baths, gardens and courtyards, furniture and food, and the servants and slaves who kept the villa running. Illustrated with site photos from Roman villas around Britain, archaeological treasures, and museum reconstructions of villa interiors, this is a fascinating look at life in Roman Britain before the Roman army left in AD 406 and the villa way of life faded into history. Includes a list of places to visit.

Read more less

Fifteen themed walks highlighting the best that London has to offer, from historic palaces and gardens to the pleasures of the famous River Thames and the landmarks around Docklands and the City. Original illustrated maps and essential information make this a perfect guide for visitors to the capital. This stunning guide takes in London’s famous landmarks and streets giving a description of each walk and information on historic sites and places of interest.The walks range from between 1 and 6 miles, and give the nearest train or Underground stations for the start and end of the walks, with a locator map indicating where stations are.

Read more less

Written for the German visitor, this is a lavishly illustrated guide based on walks that take in the 'must-sees' of Bath, with diversions for those with more time. Look out for more Pitkin Guides on the very best of British history, heritage and travel, including other titles in our popular City Guides series. Alternative language editions: English, French, Japanese

Read more less

The kingdom of Scotland has had a turbulent history, at points the site of a tribal contest and of a far-reaching political controversy. This guide traces the history of the Scottish crown from Kenneth MacAlpin in 843 AD to Jame VI in 1603 when the crown became one with England. This informative guide is filled with family trees and colour photographs of fascinating portraits and artefacts from Scotland's history. It provides an accessible and informative introduction to the story of the country's monarchy and the complex and dangerous competition that surrounded the crown. This well-researched guide covers each Scottish house and ruler in separate comprehensively detailed sections, all the way until George III was acknowledged as the Stuart successor in 1807. Look out for more Pitkin Guides on the very best of British history, heritage and travel, including others in a series of historical titles about Scotland.

Read more less

Attracting over one and a half million people every year, Omaha beach is the most visited Second World War battlefield site in Europe. The site of over a thousand deaths, it was also one of the bloodiest - hence its grim title, 'Bloody Omaha'. This narrow strip of Normandy coastline was crucial to the successful outcome of Overlord, eight divisions of American and British soldiers landing with the aim to secure key towns for the Allies. What was to be the largest amphibious operation in history, however, crucial to the war itself, also came with a high cost. 1,225 men were killed in action on Omaha, more than half within the first day. This fascinating guide provides a thorough account of the operation on Omaha, supported by maps, contemporary and modern photographs. William Jordan's well-written text tells the story from the initial assessments of Omaha through to the thousands of tons of material troops were afterwards safe to land. Look out for more Pitkin Guides on the very best of British history, heritage and travel.

Read more less

Mankind likes to consider itself civilized. Sadly, this civilization is only skin-deep and man's inhumanity to man, both in war and peace, has always been a cause for shame. But how should traitors, criminals and society's enemies be dealt with? This book shows some of the means used to chastise and punish down through the ages. Look out for more Pitkin Guides on the very best of British history, heritage and travel.

Read more less

Darfield and Wombwell Then & Now offers the reader a comprehensive overview of life as it has changed from the coalmining communities of decades past through to the modern developments of the present day. The coal mines are long gone but have not been forgotten, and a good deal of continuity is evident, despite the loss of so many buildings through demolition and redevelopment.   Brian Elliott’s fascinating selection of archive photographs placed alongside stunning images of the same scenes today make this book an incredible record of Darfield and Wombwell’s history that will enthral residents and visitors alike.

Read more less

Wallsend has a rich heritage, which is uniquely reflected in this delightful, full-colour compilation. Contrasting a selection of forty-five archive images alongside modern photographs taken from the same location, this new book reveals the changing faces, buildings and streets of Wallsend during the last century. Comparing the workers of yesteryear with today’s tradespeople, along with some famous landmarks and little-known street scenes, this is a wide-ranging look at the area’s absorbing history. Wallsend Then & Now will awaken nostalgic memories for those who live in or know the town, whilst providing visitors with a glimpse of how the town used to be.

Read more less

This unique collection of over 90 pairs of images, many previously unpublished, include fascinating street scenes in the densely-populated area which was demolished to make way for the Victoria Railway Station. This volume also covers many districts of Nottingham, showing humble cottages and architectural masterpieces, and the city centre when Nottingham has its first electric tram system which radiated to all the suburbs. Old and young alike will find these photographic comparisons intriguing.

Read more less

Granted city status in 2002, Preston is one of England’s newest cities. However the area’s history dates back to Roman times when travelling legions set up a camp midway along the road between Luguvalium (Carlisle) and Mamucium (Manchester). Since then a lot has changed - the area has undergone hundreds of years of development through various periods of history. You may be forgiven for thinking that Preston has little surviving evidence of its history, however the fascinating comparisons in Preston Then & Now show that a lot has remained, as well as a great deal that has changed over the years.

Read more less

A leading poker guru gives you the essential tips to win at Texas Hold 'Em poker at any time, whether at home, at a tournament or playing online. Lou Krieger, author of the bestselling 'Poker Player's Bible', covers the basics, such as tips on when to fold, when to call, and when to raise, but also gives you insider tips to help you raise your game. The advice varies depending on whether you are playing in a tournament, in a fixed-limit game (as is common in the USA) or in a pot- or no-limit game (the kind commonly found in the UK and much of Europe). The tips cover the following categories of games: limit cash games no-limit or pot-limit cash games tips for tournaments tips that work for all games specific online poker-playing tips

Read more less

A fascinating insight into Britain’s built heritage and the diverse housing styles of the twentieth and twenty-first century. This book showcases 100 houses – one from each year from 1914 – that represent the range of architectural styles throughout the years and show how housing has adapted to suit urban life. Each house is accompanied by stunning photography and texts written by leading architectural critics and design historians, including Gavin Stamp, Elain Harwood, Barnabas Calder, Ellis Woodman and Gillian Darley. From specially commissioned architect-designed houses for individuals and for families to housing built for increased workforces, each of the 100 houses brings a different design style or historical story. There are houses built as part of garden cities, semi-detached suburban houses, housing estates, eco-houses, almshouses, converted factories and affordable post-war homes. The architectural styles encompass mock Tudor, modernist, Arts & Crafts and brutalist and the featured architects include Giles Gilbert Scott, Walter Gropius, Edwin Lutyens, Powell and Moya and David Chipperfield. The book also contains essays that explore the social and political aspects of housing design in Britain over the last 100 years, looking at the impact the World Wars had on housing, exploring domestic technology and building materials and asking how the modern house came about. Whether exploring Grayson Perry’s folly-like House for Essex, Patrick Gwynne’s modernist glass villa in Surrey, Sarah Wigglesworth’s Straw Bale House or Simon Conder’s black rubber-clad fisherman’s hut in Dungeness, this book gives a glimpse into the wonderful housing in Britain and is a must-have for all fans of design history and architecture.

Read more less

Batsford's Walking Guides is an exciting new gift series of walking books, aimed at the weekend, family walker. These small-format, portable, hardback books have an attractive retro feel, with nostalgic line drawings and hand-drawn maps. Each of the 20 walks have been carefully selected to appeal to family walkers, most are circular and none are too strenuous. Each walk contains the following: Clear, easy-to-follow route directions Detailed hand-drawn maps Refreshments and pubs Parking information OS map references In addition, each walk contains information on wildlife, or other special attractions to watch out for while walking. The ideal gift for anyone wanting to explore the countryside within easy reach of London.

Read more less

An eclectic collection of prose, poetry and practical advice for every day of the year. A mix of fact and fiction, fantasy and experience, the Bedside Companion for Gardeners is a treasure trove of green-fingered inspiration where practical advice blends seamlessly with poetry and prose from intrepid gardeners past and present. Dip in and out of this collection with an entry for every night of the year that draws on writing through the ages and from across the globe. The Bedside Companion for Gardeners incorporates practical advice from the 17th-century gardening diarist John Evelyn; inspiring prose from Elizabeth von Arnim and John Milton; astute commentary from Horace Walpole on William Kent and Nancy Mitford on the vulgarity of a Surrey garden. Kipling offers practical advice, while Tennyson waxes lyrical on an Arabian night garden. The perfect gift for any gardener, this magical book is an invaluable source of inspiration and guidance to revisit throughout the year.

Read more less

A fascinating and humorous read that debunks the surprising myths about the world we always believed. The latest addition to the popular Everything You Know series, this book will blow apart your beliefs in the world’s physical and social landscape, leaving you staggered by astounding facts about our planet's geography, nature, countries and cities. Indulge your curiosity and you’ll find a plethora of myths, legends and misquotes that have shaped the way we view the world today. Convinced the world is round? Think again! It’s actually flatter at the poles. Have the Sahara down as the world’s biggest desert? It’s actually Antarctica. Brimming with facts about the world, how it works and the way we live in it, this illuminating book will guide you through the minefield of misinformation to set the record straight on everything from the location of Mexico to the correct way of measuring earthquakes. Discovering untruths about people and places, geography and the environment, Everything You Know About Planet Earth Is Wrong provides a hugely entertaining insight into the world we live in.

Read more less

Great Britain has a long tradition of spectacular seasonal events, parties, pomp and ceremony. But times have moved on since the days of formal manners and dress codes and with many exclusive events now accessible to everyone, it can be tricky to know where to go, what to wear and how to act. Luckily, Her Ladyship is on hand to guide you though the social minefield of the British Season. This practical guide will take you on a tour of all the best events, including Chelsea Flower Show, Glyndebourne Festival, Lord's Test Cricket, The Epsom Derby and Royal Ascot, Wimbledon, Henley Royal Regatta, Glorious Goodwood, Cowes Week and many more. Her Ladyship is always on hand to explain what happens where, giving invaluable advice on dress codes and traditional customs along the way. Insider's tips on getting tickets and what not to miss at each event make this the must-have companion of the Season.

Read more less