This lavish photographic history of the most beautiful and historic
railway stations in London tells a story of power, progress and
innovation, from the beginning of steam age to the teeming commuter hubs
of today.
London has more mainline railway stations than any other city in the
world and many of them are amongst its grandest architectural
monuments. Its earliest terminals opened in the late 1830s when lines
between the capital and the regions were built in the first railway
boom. The original station at London Bridge, the capital's first
passenger terminus, was opened in December 1836, six months before Queen
Victoria came to the throne. The last main line to London, the Great
Central Railway to Marylebone, was opened in March 1899, two years
before Victoria died.
Ever since they originally opened, these stations have been at heart
of London life and activity and have dominated the architectural
landscape. Many are now in the midst of major reconstructions and are
the centrepieces for the transformation of whole swathes of London,
from Paddington to King's Cross.
This comprehensive story combines a historical overview, archive
illustrations and specially commissioned photography, covering the
origins of the earliest stations up to the latest reconstructions and
renovations.
Written by the expert author Oliver Green, this is an essential gift
for anyone interested in the history of London and its transport.
