The Thames is unique, emerging as a small stream in idyllic countryside
and growing to the country's largest river, passing through some of the
world's most iconic urban environments. Linking London to the
countryside and the sea, the Thames is the heart of the capital and its
waters the lifeblood of England.
This beautiful book celebrates the entire river from source to sea, and
with wonderful photography and quirky text follows it on a voyage
through Britain's history, as its path joins landmarks of the past with
the urban landscape of today. London has so often been the beginning and
the end of the Thames story, and whilst it forms a major part, this book
gives an altogether more complete and unexpected view of one of the most
famous, remarkable and well-loved rivers in the world. We see the famous
views and also learn lesser-known facts, such as Dick Turpin's secret
hideaway (complete with an underground stable for Black Bess), the home
of the notorious Chancellor Sir Francis Dashwood (the only Chancellor to
have delivered his budget speech drunk) and the scene of the Monty
Python fish-slapping dance.
First published in 2007, this gorgeous coffee table book has been
updated for its second edition with new text and photography, and
continues to be the perfect gift for anyone living near, visiting or
enjoying this magnificent river, with its visual variety, hidden secrets
and fascinating history.
