London 1870-1914: A City at its Zenith

This lavishly illustrated book is a real treasure trove. It's in four sections, each one corresponding to a decade. I focused on the last section which overs the Edwardian period to the First World war as this was what I wanted to research. I found it a fascinating read. I then went back through the earlier sections, dipping in and out. I think I will keep on doing this frequently as it's so full of interesting information about everything from politics, to architecture, industry to socio-demographics, the history of housing and transport in the capital.The period covered by the book is the most dramatic in London's history and marked both the apogee of London's growth and a marked period of change. We often forget that until after WW1 and WW2 London was still an industrial city with factories and warehouses in often very central places – not just along the "filthy ribbon" that was the south bank. There were power stations and ironworks in what are now leafy suburbs or residential areas - eg Hammersmith ironworks - and the power station on Lots Road Chelsea which powered the underground railway.Andrew Saint is particularly good on development and architecture - not surprising as he was a Professor of Architecture at Cambridge and then General Editor of The Survey of London. But there are also fascinating characters and stories from all walks of life, gracing the pages. And anyone who, like me, has lived in London (a total of 24 years in my case) will love finding out the history of often familiar buildings – some of which sadly I had often walked past without understanding their provenance.Highly recommended whether you are interested in the period from an academic viewpoint or just enjoy social history.

This is a fascinating, accessible read. Energetically written and copiously illustrated with often unfamiliar but always apposite images, it is packed with memorable characters and compelling details. A beautifully produced, interesting book. Highly recommended.