50 Gems of Jersey
The History & Heritage Of The Most Iconic Places
Part of the 50 Gems series
The largest of the Channel Islands, Jersey is a self-governing dependency of the British Crown. It has retained its special identity through the centuries with many historic buildings, both in the capital St Helier and spread through the rest of the island, and rural and agricultural areas alongside more modern developments. The coastline to the south of the island boasts sandy bays while to the north the coast is distinguished by large cliffs.
50 Gems of Jersey explores the many places and their history that make this unique island so special, including natural features, towns and villages, buildings and places of historical interest. Alongside justly famous attractions, others will be relatively unknown but all have an interesting story to tell.
50 Gems of Stirling District
The History & Heritage Of The Most Iconic Places
Part of the 50 Gems series
Stirlingshire is central to Scotland and its history. Spanning the boundary between the Highlands and Lowlands, and standing at the heart of Scotland, the town of Stirling was 'the key of the Highlands'. Granted city status in 2002 as part of the Queen's Jubilee celebrations, it is a thriving city with a proud and distinctive identity, which retains much of its ancient character and a wealth of fine heritage buildings. Cattle were driven from all over Scotland to the great trysts at Falkirk and local foundries fuelled the Industrial Revolution. The military heritage of Stirlingshire is also in evidence in the numerous battlefields and memorials in the area. The greater part of the western section of the area includes vast swathes of great natural beauty, which are most clearly represented by the outstanding scenery of the Trossachs and Loch Lomond. The Millennium Link project and the monumental Kelpie statues are two of the more recent additions to the gems of the area. 50 Gems of Stirling District explores the many places and their history that make this part of Scotland so special, including natural features, towns and villages, buildings, and places of historical interest. The selection includes some of the major landmarks in the area and several possibly lesser-known and more uncommon places.
50 Gems of Guernsey
The History & Heritage Of The Most Iconic Places
Part of the 50 Gems series
Guernsey is a beautiful Channel Island with a fascinating history and breathtaking scenery. With an area of just 24 square miles, visitors are astonished at just how much there is to see and do. The island's varied landscape ranges from beautiful beaches, stunning cliffs and lush countryside to the quirky, cobbled streets of the harbour town of St Peter Port. In this book, accredited tour guide Soo Wellfair takes us on a journey around the island to discover fifty of its cherished places. Guernsey's many visitors find themselves immersed in the delights of this quaint and charming island and the author leads us to some of her favourite hidden treasures. Seek out the tiny chapel decorated in broken pieces of pottery and the clifftop woodland that comes alive every year when it is swathed in a blanket of bluebells. Explore Guernsey's historic sites from throughout the island's history. From Neolithic times through to the medieval and Tudor periods, and even to the more contemporary structures built during the occupation of Guernsey in the Second World War, this is an island that is small in size but immense in history and beauty. Illustrated throughout, 50 Gems of Guernsey will appeal to residents, visitors and all those interested in the island's history.
50 Gems of Fife
The History & Heritage Of The Most Iconic Places
Part of the 50 Gems series
The historic county of Fife is a natural peninsula on the east coast of Scotland, bordered by the Firth of Forth and the Firth of Tay. Alongside its three largest settlements of Dunfermline, Kirkcaldy and Glenrothes it is also home to the ancient city of St Andrews, with its world-famous golf course and university. The often turbulent history of Fife is reflected in its royal palaces, castles and other ruins, such as Ravenscraig Castle and Dunfermline Abbey. Fife's picturesque coast draws visitors to places like Crail Harbour and Pittenweem. Fife's cultural and industrial heritage are also celebrated, including the Fife Folk Museum, the Anstruther Fisheries Museum and the Fife Heritage Railway. 50 Gems of Fife explores the many places and their history that make this part of Scotland so special, including natural features, towns and villages, buildings and places of historical interest. Alongside justly famous attractions, others will be relatively unknown, but all have an interesting story to tell.
50 Gems of West Cork
The History & Heritage Of The Most Iconic Places
Part of the 50 Gems series
Situated in the south-western corner of Ireland, the region of West Cork attracts millions of visitors each year to discover its spectacular coastline and dramatic landscapes. It is known for many aspects: its scenery, its serenity, its culture and its people. 50 Gems of West Cork takes the reader from Bandon to Castletownbere, through the changing and unspoilt landscapes and seascapes, and provides an insight into the uniqueness of the region. The necklace of towns and villages are all linked together through a striking section of Ireland's coastline, encompassing a raw coastal wilderness with expansive inlets. Together with the exquisite coastal scenery are undulating inland landscapes criss-crossed by mountains, hills, streams and rivers, imposing old-world villages and wonderful discoveries at every bend in the road. In this book, local author Kieran McCarthy seeks out the essence and the character of the area to show how special it is.
50 Gems of the Lothians
The History & Heritage Of The Most Iconic Places
Part of the 50 Gems series
The historic county of Lothian lies along the south side of the broad estuary of the Forth. Its strategic location and political and economic importance, with Edinburgh at its centre, has made the county witness to some of the most significant events in Scottish history. This is reflected in the remarkable wealth of architectural heritage spanning thousands of years. Castles, royal palaces, churches and industrial buildings of national importance abound in the county. Author Jack Gillon seeks out some of the favourite landmarks, lesser-known locations and hidden treasures of the region. He takes the reader from Edinburgh, with its castle, the Scottish Parliament and the Palace of Holyrood House, to the East Lothian village of Athelstaneford, the birthplace of the Saltire, Traprain Law and the historic Hailes Castle. Among the gems of Midlothian are the glorious Rosslyn Chapel, which was the setting for the finale of The Da Vinci Code and described by its author, Dan Brown, as 'the most mysterious and magical chapel on earth'. This book also explores the highlights of West Lothian including the Bo'ness &Kinneil Railway, Linlithgow Palace (birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots) and the impressive Hopetoun House, near Queensferry. 50 Gems of The Lothians will appeal to residents as well as visitors to the area.
50 Gems of Gloucestershire
The History & Heritage Of The Most Iconic Places
Part of the 50 Gems series
Gloucestershire is a county of great variety with three distinct areas: the Cotswold Hills, the Forest of Dean and the Severn Vale. The gently rolling hills of the Cotswolds are dotted with picturesque towns and villages of honey-coloured limestone, while the Forest of Dean, which overlooks the Wye Valley and Welsh mountains beyond, has a dark and mysterious beauty quite distinct from the rest of the county. These two areas are separated by the mighty River Severn, which over countless centuries has carved a course through the land to create the Severn Vale. Builders commonly used timber frames in the construction of dwellings in this low-lying land, notably in Tewkesbury, although some of Gloucestershire's most impressive stone buildings – Gloucester Cathedral, Tewkesbury Abbey and Berkeley Castle – are found in the Vale area. At the heart of the county lie its two major settlements: the historic city of Gloucester and the spa town of Cheltenham, famous for its festivals and Regency architecture. In 50 Gems of Gloucestershire author Mark Turner explores the history of these places and more, showing why this part of the west of England is so special.
50 Gems of Shropshire
The History & Heritage of the Most Iconic Places
Part of the 50 Gems series
The county of Shropshire holds many delights, from the beauty of Ellesmere, at the heart of Shropshire's Lake District, to the glories of Wenlock Edge and The Wrekin. Shropshire also boasts more than its fair share of heritage and history, from the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Coalbrookdale to the vertiginous cliff railway at Bridgnorth, as well as many fascinating historic castles, houses and religious buildings that tell tales of the region's varied past. 50 Gems of Shropshire is filled with stunning photographs that will draw you closer to the places you already know and love and tempt you to discover new gems of your own.
50 Gems of Mid Wales
The History & Heritage Of The Most Iconic Places
Part of the 50 Gems series
Mid Wales remains untouched. It is an expansive and peaceful region, stretching across Wales from Cardigan Bay to the English border, a place to reflect and relax and discover the fascinating secrets of Paradwys Cymru, the paradise of Wales. Here are the significant moments in Welsh history, the politics and the murder, the ruined mansions and abbeys, and the forgotten battlefields. This book will take you there. You will visit places along the border, where Wales and England mix across Offa's Dyke and then reach out into the heart of Wales where the Welsh language rules. From the Victorian splendour of Llandrindod Wells to the serenity of Soar y Mynydd, from the beauty of Lake Vyrnwy to the wilderness of the Hafod Estate, these are the places which help to define Wales and make it such a special and endlessly fascinating country.
50 Gems of North Wales
The History & Heritage Of The Most Iconic Places
Part of the 50 Gems series
Famous for its breathtaking mountain scenery, beautiful beaches, ancient culture and heritage, North Wales is a region with huge appeal. From the delights of the Ffestiniog Railway at Porthmadog to the wild landscapes of the Snowdonia National Park, this book takes the reader on a fascinating journey along ancient routes and through spectacular scenery, sleepy villages and historic castles. Beaches and coves, castles and museums and magnificent mountains, they're all here in a lovingly painted picture of North Wales today. In 50 Gems of North Walesauthor John Idris Jones explores some of the places that make this part of the United Kingdom so special.
50 Gems of Derbyshire
The History & Heritage Of The Most Iconic Places
Part of the 50 Gems series
Famous for being the home of the Peak District National Park (three-quarters of its 550 square miles lies within the county), Derbyshire is filled with natural appeal. From the historic city of Derby to picturesque villages nestled in unspoiled countryside, this book takes the reader on a fascinating journey through bustling market towns, vast landscapes and special places of historic interest. Spectacular upland views, castles, museums and scenes of bucolic beauty attract millions of visitors every year, and all are included here in a lovingly painted picture of Derbyshire today. In 50 Gems of Derbyshire, author Mike Appleton explores the places that make this county special.
50 Gems of South West Wales
The History & Heritage Of The Most Iconic Places
Part of the 50 Gems series
Watered by rivers, strengthened by castles, enhanced by beautiful villages, necklaced by a spectacular coastline and enriched by a long and fascinating history, South West Wales is one of the country's most remarkable places. You can explore St David's, the smallest cathedral city; Fishguard, the site of the last foreign invasion of Britain; Dolaucothi where the Romans mined for gold; and Myddfai where modern medicinal practice began –all are all here in this tour of some of the special gems that make South West Wales such a beautiful place. Allow this book to be your companion as you discover wild beaches, sheltered bays, rugged fortifications and green hills where mystery, mythology and forgotten stories intermingle. 50 Gems of South West Wales will encourage you to visit – and then return again and again.
50 Gems of Suffolk
The History & Heritage Of The Most Iconic Places
Part of the 50 Gems series
Famous for inspiring artist John Constable, Suffolk is a county filled with natural appeal. From the glorious coastline to medieval towns such as Bury St Edmunds, this book takes the reader on a fascinating journey through timeless villages, vast landscapes and special places of historic interest. Boats and beaches, castles and museums and those scenes of bucolic beauty that continue to attract artists and writers are all here in a lovingly painted picture of Suffolk today. In 50 Gems of Suffolk, writer Kate J. Cole explores the places that make this county special.
50 Gems of Buckinghamshire
The History & Heritage of the Most Iconic Places
Part of the 50 Gems series
The county of Buckinghamshire holds many delights, from the rolling Chiltern Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, to the meandering routes of the Great Ouse and River Thames, and breathtaking views from the surrounding hills. Buckinghamshire is also blessed with some of the finest gardens in England and there is history and heritage aplenty, from Bletchley Park to the Roald Dahl Museum, as well as many wonderful historic houses that tell fascinating tales of Buckinghamshire's varied past. 50 Gems of Buckinghamshire is overflowing with stunning photographs and interesting facts to draw you closer to the places you already know and love and to tempt you to discover new gems of your own.
50 Gems of Northumberland
The History & Heritage of the Most Iconic Places
Part of the 50 Gems series
The county of Northumberland holds many delights, from the stunning landscapes along Hadrian's Wall to the many unspoiled beaches that line its spectacular coastline. Northumberland also boasts more than its fair share of heritage and history, from the unique Holy Island of Lindisfarne to the medieval market town of Alnwick, as well as many ancient castles -- more than any other county in England -- houses and religious buildings that tell fascinating tales of the county's rich and varied past. 50 Gems of Northumberland is filled with stunning photographs and interesting facts to draw you closer to the places you already know and love, and to tempt you to discover new gems of your own.
50 Gems of Somerset
The History & Heritage Of The Most Iconic Places
Part of the 50 Gems series
The county of Somerset can trace its origins back to Anglo-Saxon England, when it was a distinct part of the kingdom of Wessex, although the history of its peoples stretches back much further. Much of the county is agricultural and its wealth in the Middle Ages is seen today in Wells Cathedral, churches and the remains of abbeys. The north-east of the county was also a coal-mining area and Bridgwater became an important port in the Industrial Revolution. Today the county is as well known for the annual Glastonbury Festival as it is for its many tourist attractions. In 50 Gems of Somerset, author Andrew Powell-Thomas explores the many places and their history that make this part of the south-west of England so special. It includes Roman remains, castles, magnificent houses and churches, and historic towns, as well as present-day festivals and events. There is also a living heritage of military, transport and industry and natural attractions that include moors, hills, coastline, parks and many other treasures. Alongside the justly famous sites such as Cheddar Gorge and Wookey Hole the author includes many lesser-known gems that are equally deserving of attention.
50 Gems of Monmouthshire
The History & Heritage Of The Most Iconic Places
Part of the 50 Gems series
For centuries visitors to Monmouthshire have been seduced by its picturesque landscape and breathtaking beauty. Poets, princes, priests, peasants, painters, politicians, and even pirates have all sung the praises of this unique little corner of Wales. It is a county with an elusive nature and a turbulent past, but one whose sublime splendour is evident in its surrounding hills, scattered castles, sleepy churches, rolling rivers, rising mists and ancient woodlands. William Wordsworth once famously described Monmouthshire as the place where 'the heavy and the weary weight of all this unintelligible world is lightened'.In 50 Gems of Monmouthshire local author Tim Butters takes an illuminating journey along the high and low roads of one of the UK's most popular counties in search of the landmarks, the historic curiosities and the natural wonders that make this little patch of the UK so magical to both visitors and residents alike.Among the places the author visits are the romantic ruins of Tintern Abbey, the Skirrid on the edge of the Black Mountains, the Monmouth and Brecon Canal and the Kymin hill, with its spectacular views of Monmouth and the eighteenth-century Round House and temple in honour of British naval victories.
50 Gems of South Devon
The History & Heritage Of The Most Iconic Places
Part of the 50 Gems series
With a coastline that stretches from Plymouth to Seaton, three Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the Dartmoor National Park, South Devon is a region that has an enviable selection of scenic treasures and cherished destinations. It is easy to see why so many holidaymakers come here to see the beaches, the Dartmoor wilderness, the rolling hills, river valleys, picturesque villages and historic harbour towns. In 50 Gems of South Devon landscape photographer Gary Holpin takes the reader to some of his favourite places within the region. Together with some well-known holiday locations, Gary highlights a diverse range of places across South Devon, East Devon and Dartmoor. He includes secluded estuaries, sheltered copses, remote Dartmoor tors and stone circles. This superbly illustrated book will appeal to residents and tourists alike.
50 Gems of Lancashire
The History & Heritage Of The Most Iconic Places
Part of the 50 Gems series
The historic county of Lancashire holds many delights, from the vast seascapes and long sandy beaches of its west coast to the unspoiled beauty of the Forest of Bowland and the dramatic limestone pavements around Silverdale. Lancashire also boasts more than its fair share of heritage and history, from the infamous Pendle Witch Trials to the many textile mills that drove the Industrial Revolution, as well as ancient castles, houses and religious buildings that tell fascinating tales of the county's rich and varied past. 50 Gems of Lancashire is overflowing with lovely photographs and interesting facts to draw you closer to the places you already know and love and to tempt you to discover new gems of your own.
50 Gems of Northamptonshire
The History & Heritage Of The Most Iconic Places
Part of the 50 Gems series
Lying in the heart of England, Northamptonshire is a county filled with historical places of interest, fascinating towns, and villages set in a beautiful landscape. In 50 Gems of Northamptonshire local author and historian Will Adams explores fifty unmissable gems that make this county special. Northamptonshire has remarkable examples of Saxon churches, such as at Earls Barton; glorious country houses, such as Castle Ashby; and fascinating historical connections, not least at the ancestral home of George Washington at Sulgrave Manor. Natural delights such as Pitsford Reservoir, battlefield sites, and the legacy of canals and railways all feature in this journey through one of the most enchanting areas of the country.
50 Gems of Cornwall
The History & Heritage Of The Most Iconic Places
Part of the 50 Gems series
Cornwall is a popular holiday destination best known for its dramatic coastal scenery and wonderful beaches. In this book, John Husband takes the reader on a tour of the places situated off the beaten track to discover the essence and true character of Cornwall. The coastal path takes us to dramatic cliffs, which are ablaze with colour in spring, and the smaller coves and harbours where sustainable fishing still goes on much as it did in the heyday of the local fishing industry. Cornwall's heritage can also be found in the many prehistoric sites dotted across the landscape of the inland moors, surrounded by the remains of the ancient volcanoes that form the tors and crags of Bodmin Moor and West Penwith. More recent remains are found here too, including the romantic outlines of ruined engine houses left behind after the mining boom of the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, which now form part of the Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape World Heritage Site. This book reveals all this and more, showing why this county remains so special.
50 Gems of Herefordshire
The History & Heritage Of The Most Iconic Places
Part of the 50 Gems series
Herefordshire has had the mixed blessing of being a border county, predominately rural and far away from any metropolis. Lying between England and Wales, its past has been bloody, with raids and an unstable boundary. Borders are always porous and much Welsh influence can be found, especially in the west of the county. The county did not play a major part in the Industrial Revolution, which meant it became something of a backwater. Its unspoilt countryside provided a pleasant place to visit, but not such an easy place to make a living. Herefordshire can make the claim of being the birthplace of tourism as rich travellers, thwarted by the Napoleonic War from making the Grand Tour of Europe, found journeys down the beautiful River Wye some compensation. Now modernity is making changes to the county, with pressure for more houses, large-scale agriculture and the climate crisis all having their effect, but Herefordshire remains an intriguing and fascinating place. In 50 Gems of Herefordshire, local author David Phelps visits some of the favourite and lesser-known locations that reflect its heritage, culture and scenic splendour. From churches to castles and cider factory to cathedral, this is a county with much to discover and enjoy. Well-illustrated throughout, this book will appeal to residents and visitors alike.
50 Gems of Berkshire
The History & Heritage Of The Most Iconic Places
Part of the 50 Gems series
The county of Berkshire is home to a through route from east to west following the River Thames, the ancient Ridgeway, the A4 trunk road, the Kennet and Avon Canal and the Great Western Railway. Within this long, slipper-shaped county there is something for everyone - gems from medieval to modern times. It can be divided into five geographical sections: the Vale of the White Horse, the Chalk Downs, the Kennet Valley, the district east of the River Loddon and the Thames Valley itself. Glorious buildings stand at Bisham and Ufton Court, there is the splendid gatehouse of Donnington Castle and the crowning glory of all, Windsor Castle and St George's Chapel. There are fine market towns, the White Horse at Uffington, Roman Silchester, the medieval barn at Great Coxwell, grand stately homes and fascinating medieval churches. Other attractions include the Savill Gardens at Windsor, the Museum of Berkshire Aviation, the Stanley Spencer Gallery at Cookham and the Sandham Memorial Chapel, the Thames Valley Police Museum, the Beale Wildlife Park and the Windsor and Eton Brewery.
50 Gems of Berkshire explores the many places and their history that make this part of the country so special, including natural features, towns and villages, buildings and places of historical interest. Alongside justly famous attractions, others will be relatively unknown, but all have an interesting story to tell.
50 Gems of Oxfordshire
The History & Heritage Of The Most Iconic Places
Part of the 50 Gems series
Oxfordshire is rich in many things: fine agricultural land and areas of dense woodland; delightful towns like Burford, Woodstock, Dorchester and Henley; the stately River Thames that bisects the county; the ironstone villages of the northern border; the Oxford Canal meandering its way through remote countryside; and splendid country houses at Blenheim, Chastleton and Rousham. The jewel in the crown is the city of Oxford itself, with its ancient honey-coloured buildings and dreaming spires. This book celebrates both Oxfordshire's well-known glories and hidden gems such as the ruined manor at Hampton Gay, the brewery at Hook Norton and the glories of Wytham Woods. Highlighting these and other gems, this book gives an enticing picture of the rich variety of experiences and sights the county of Oxfordshire has to offer.
50 Gems of Dorset
The History & Heritage Of The Most Iconic Places
Part of the 50 Gems series
Famous for its spectacular coastal scenery, beautiful beaches and ancient castles, Dorset is a county with a huge and diverse appeal. From the delights of Lyme Regis to lovely Lulworth Cove, this book takes the reader on a fascinating journey through picturesque surroundings, sleepy villages, beaches and coves, ancient castles, museums and the magnificent Jurassic Coast. They're all here in a lovingly painted picture of Dorset today. In 50 Gems of Dorset author John Megoran explores some of the places that make this part of the country so special.
50 Gems of Norfolk
The History & Heritage Of The Most Iconic Places
Part of the 50 Gems series
From the bustling heart of historic Norwich to the tranquillity of the north coast, Norfolk is a place of contrasts. Tiny villages, the agricultural landscape and the world-famous Norfolk Broads are all parts of the panorama that is Norfolk. This is a book that will take you from the fun of the fair at Great Yarmouth to sequestered spots of historic interest. Boats and beaches, piers and pubs, stately houses and steam railways – they're all here in a lovingly painted picture of Norfolk today. 50 Gems of Norfolk explores some of the places that make the county special. Taking in some well-known locations as well as exploring some quieter byways, this is a look at places to see and things do in this remarkable place. Steeped in a history that embraces both its agricultural heritage and seafaring tradition, Norfolk proudly acknowledges that it likes to 'do different'. Within these pages you'll find some of the reasons why that's true.
50 Gems of Leicestershire & Rutland
The History & Heritage Of The Most Iconic Places
Part of the 50 Gems series
Leicestershire is a fascinating and diverse county. Its countryside, market towns and historic buildings attract large numbers of visitors. Place names show evidence of Roman, Saxon and Norman settlement. The Normans built castles and churches and although the castles are now in ruins, Leicestershire has some of the most beautiful parish churches in the country. The Tudor era was born in Leicestershire when Henry Tudor defeated Richard III at the Battle of Bosworth Field in August 1485. Centuries later, in 2012, an ambitious excavation project uncovered the remains of Richard III under the site of a Leicester car park, and these have since been reinterred in the city's cathedral. Some of the canals and railways created in Leicestershire during the Industrial Revolution have become popular heritage sites, and the county is also known for its Stilton cheese and Melton Mowbray pork pies, which are famous throughout the world. Rutland is England's smallest county and for a time was incorporated into its much larger neighbour of Leicestershire. Its motto is 'Much in Little' and this small shire has been described as 'a scenic slice of Middle England bursting with things to see and do'. In 50 Gems of Leicestershire & Rutland, local author Michael Smith highlights some of his favourite places from both counties. He has selected those locations and sites which give the visitor a real flavour of these shires at the heart of England. Included are historic buildings, parks, open spaces, events and festivals which reflect Leicestershire and Rutland's rich heritage and diverse cultures. From the River Soar meandering through a thousand years of history to the vast expanse of Rutland Water and from Bronze Age to Jet Age monuments, this is a wonderful illustrated insight into these counties.
50 Gems of Lincolnshire
The History & Heritage Of The Most Iconic Places
Part of the 50 Gems series
Lincolnshire is a county of contrasts, ranging from the seaside resorts on the east coast to the rolling chalk hills of the Lincolnshire Wolds and the fenland area of the south-east. The area has been settled since prehistoric times, the Romans established the town of Lindum (present-day Lincoln) for retired legionaries, a number of churches date from the Saxon period, and place names provide a reminder of the county's Viking past. Lincoln became a thriving medieval settlement, evidenced by its magnificent cathedral and castle. The coming of the railways in the nineteenth century created the seaside resorts of Skegness, Cleethorpes and Mablethorpe. During the Second World War Lincolnshire became 'Bomber County' as it was home to a large number of airbases. It was from here that the daring Dambusters raid was launched. The county also boasts a proud cultural heritage. The writer Alfred Lord Tennyson and the landscape artist Peter de Wint both drew inspiration from the Lincolnshire countryside. Annual events include the Lincoln Christmas Fair and the quirky Steampunk Festival, as well as the famous Haxey Hood game. 50 Gems of Lincolnshire explores the many places and their history that make this part of the country so special, including natural features, towns and villages, buildings and places of historical interest. Alongside justly famous attractions, others will be relatively unknown but all have an interesting story to tell.
50 Gems of the Isle of Wight
The History & Heritage Of The Most Iconic Places
Part of the 50 Gems series
- The latest title in Amberley's popular '50 Gems' series
- Review coverage in local press and media
- Author is available to promote the book
50 Gems of Wiltshire
The History & Heritage Of The Most Iconic Places
Part of the 50 Gems series
Wiltshire is one of the largest counties in southern England. Much of it is comprised of high chalk downland, most famously on Salisbury Plain, and wide valleys and vales, often with rivers running through them, but in the north-west Wiltshire runs into the Cotswolds and south-east Wiltshire lies on the edge of the New Forest. Wiltshire is unsurpassed in its ancient sites, from the Neolithic monuments of Stonehenge and Avebury to numerous barrows and burial chambers. Later ages have also added to Wiltshire's gems, from the distinctive white horses cut into the chalk on hillsides, to Salisbury Cathedral, Longleat and the gardens at Stourhead. In 50 Gems of Wiltshire author Andrew Powell-Thomas explores the many places and their history that make this part of the South West so special. The 50 Gems include ancient sites of the earliest settlers in the area, castles, historic towns and villages, stunning country houses and estates, natural beauty spots and many other treasures. Alongside the justly famous the author includes many lesser-known gems that are equally deserving of attention.
50 Gems of Staffordshire
The History & Heritage Of The Most Iconic Places
Part of the 50 Gems series
The county of Staffordshire holds many delights, such as the gentle beauty of Cannock Chase. It also boasts more than its fair share of heritage and history, from the world-famous Potteries Musuem to Lichfield's medieval cathedral, as well as many wonderful historic houses. The fifty gems of Staffordshire featured in this book are places that will get under your skin and inspire you. Some will take your breath away, while others have a fantastic tearoom or cosy pub nearby. 50 Gems of Staffordshire is overflowing with awe-inspiring photographs and fascinating facts to draw you closer and tempt you to discover new gems of your own.
50 Gems of Hertfordshire
The History & Heritage Of The Most Iconic Places
by Abigail Hamilton-Thompson
Part of the 50 Gems series
Hertfordshire, one of the Home Counties close to the capital, features some spectacular countryside including the chalk escarpment fringes of the Chilterns, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and many beautiful valleys including the Lee and the Colne.
In 50 Gems of Hertfordshire local author Abigail Hamilton-Thompson explores the unique locations that make the county special and the many breathtaking views in the unspoiled countryside. She investigates the hidden delights in historic towns such as Ware, Royston and the city of St Albans. From nature reserves to Roman Verulamium, churches to caves, watermills to windmills and the geological rarity that is Hertfordshire puddingstone, readers will venture on a journey of discovery around the treasures of the county.
50 Gems of Tyne and Wear
The History & Heritage Of The Most Iconic Places
Part of the 50 Gems series
- The latest title in Amberley's popular '50 Gems' series
- Review coverage in local press and media
- Author based locally and is available to promote the book
50 Gems of Hampshire
The History & Heritage Of The Most Iconic Places
Part of the 50 Gems series
Hampshire is one of the most populous counties of England but alongside the major conurbations of Southampton and Portsmouth, and historical centres such as Winchester, it also boasts the quieter spaces of the New Forest and South Downs National Parks; busy commercial centres such as Basingstoke; a proud military, naval and aviation heritage in Aldershot, Gosport and Farnborough; and quiet villages and market towns including the Meon Valley and famous Wickham with which many famous names are associated, such as Jane Austen and Gilbert White. In 50 Gems of Hampshire author Peter Kilby explores the many places and their history that make this part of the country so special, from Basingstoke in the north of the county to the Southampton-Portsmouth conurbation and the Solent and English Channel coastline in the south. Towns and villages in the New Forest are also included, to the Wiltshire border, the picturesque village of Burley, to the Beaulieu River and its spectacular Palace House and the historic shipbuilding village of Buckler's Hard, and many more.
50 Gems of the Cotswolds
The History & Heritage Of The Most Iconic Places
Part of the 50 Gems series
To many, the Cotswolds epitomise rural England at its best, conjuring up images of tranquil stone-built villages nestling beneath gently rolling hills or tucked away in evergreen secluded valleys. Such is its enchanting character that it remains one of the most popular and frequently visited parts of Britain. Yet this region defies simple stereotypes. Know where to look and you're as likely to come across a mysterious stone circle, an Iron Age fort or the castle where Edward II was murdered as you are one of the many fine churches and manor houses built from local limestone which typically punctuate this alluring landscape. Once celebrated as the centre of the English wool trade during the Middle Ages, the Cotswolds were rediscovered by the Arts and Crafts Movement as a special place of pilgrimage towards the end of the nineteenth century. Towns such as Chipping Campden, Cirencester, Stow-on-the-Wold and Bath have many secrets to reveal. This book also explores iconic sites such as Arlington Row. Covering places of outstanding beauty and treasures of historical interest, this guide has carefully selected fifty unmissable gems which help this region to sparkle as a jewel in the nation's heritage.
50 Gems of the Yorkshire Dales
The History & Heritage Of The Most Iconic Places
Part of the 50 Gems series
The Yorkshire Dales is one of the most diverse and rich landscapes in the British Isles. Limestone interlaces with sweeping and rolling fells, and dramatic peaks arise from its plains. There are caverns that stretch for miles under the surface, abundant flora and fauna that thrive in this unique environment and the hardiest of local folk who eke out a living in unison with their surroundings. This equilibrium is harnessed and interwoven by a revered heritage that not only stretches back hundreds of years but is retained, protected and celebrated today. In this book, we explore fifty of these magical places and discover what makes the Yorkshire Dales a unique place to live in and visit. See the majestic Skipton Castle, enjoy the splendour of Bolton Abbey and take in the fascinating views and history from the three peaks of Pen-y-ghent, Ingleborough and Whernside. Compare this to the tragedy and triumph of Ribblehead Viaduct. Follow the underground routes overground at Clapham and The Churns and find out the secrets of life in Dent, Malham, Settle and Gunnerside. Discover some of this area's secrets and treasures and learn the fascinating history behind them with this handy guide.
50 Gems of Sussex
The History & Heritage Of The Most Iconic Places
Part of the 50 Gems series
Famous for its coastal playgrounds and rural retreats, Sussex is a county filled with natural appeal and is just an hour from the City of London. With a timeline dating back to the ancient Kingdom of Sussex and beyond, this south-eastern county is full of attractive and iconic treasures.From the bustling seaside metropolis of Brighton to cosy chocolate-box villages such as Amberley and the magnificent Chichester Cathedral, this book takes the reader on a fascinating journey through market towns, vast landscapes and distinctive places of notable interest. The beautiful valley of Devil's Dyke, the medieval Pevensey Castle and the history of Norman Sussex draw countless visitors and are among this collection of Sussex sites that capture the character and intrigue of the striking county.Breweries and beaches, castles and museums and those scenes of bucolic splendour that continue to attract artists, celebrities, photographers and writers are all here in a lovingly painted picture of Sussex today. In 50 Gems of Sussex, historian, tour guide and author Kevin Newman explores fifty unmissable gems that make this southern county special.
50 Gems of Cumbria
The History & Heritage Of The Most Iconic Places
Part of the 50 Gems series
Cumbria defies any attempt to measure its true beauty. It is home to England's highest mountain (Scafell Pike) and both the longest and deepest lakes (Windermere and Wast Water respectively). It also happens to be the third largest county in the UK (by area) and home to 'Britain's Favourite View', but Cumbria captures your soul in a way that statistics and awards will never truly explain. There are far more than fifty gems in Cumbria and the Lake District, but the fifty in this book are a great place to start. To say they are places that we love is to do them a disservice; these are places that get under our skin and invade our mind, drawing us back to them time and again. Some of the gems will take your breath away, some will make you pause and think about how our ancestors shaped the landscape, while others have a fantastic tearoom or cosy pub nearby. 50 Gems of Cumbria is overflowing with awe-inspiring photographs and fascinating facts to draw you closer to the places you already know and love and to tempt you to discover new gems of your own.
50 Gems of East Kent
The History & Heritage Of The Most Iconic Places
Part of the 50 Gems series
Famous for its golden sandy beaches and white chalk cliffs, East Kent is a region with huge appeal. From the cool and stylish delights of Whitstable to the otherworldly landscapes and huge vistas of Romney Marsh and Dungeness, this book takes the reader on a fascinating journey through spectacular coastal scenery, old fishing villages and historic market towns. Beaches and coves, ancient castles, modern art galleries and those magnificent skies that have inspired many a famous artist are all here in a lovingly painted picture of East Kent. In 50 Gems of East Kent author Paul Harris explores some of the places that make this part of the country so special.
50 Gems of the Peak District
The History & Heritage Of The Most Iconic Places
Part of the 50 Gems series
The Peak District, designated as Britain's first national park in 1951 and now one of the most visited national parks in the world, holds many delights, from high moors and narrow gorges to dark gritstone edges and white limestone cliffs, and from grand country houses to stone-built villages and spa towns. Some of the fifty gems featured in this book will take your breath away, some will make you pause and think about how our ancestors shaped the landscape, while others have a fantastic tearoom or cosy pub nearby. 50 Gems of the Peak District is overflowing with awe-inspiring photographs and fascinating facts to draw you closer to the places you already know and love and to tempt you to discover new gems of your own.
50 Gems of North Devon
The History & Heritage of the Most Iconic Places
Part of the 50 Gems series
North Devon is famous for its rugged coastline and beautiful beaches, its dramatic moorland scenery and much more. The region is filled with places of both natural and man-made appeal. This book takes the reader on a fascinating journey through the many delights of the area. Along the coast, from the spectacular Hartland Point where land meets the Atlantic Ocean, to the twin villages of Lynton and Lynmouth on the edge of Exmoor, there are a myriad of fascinating places to visit, including the fishing village of Clovelly with its steep streets down to the harbour and the ancient ports of Bideford and Barnstaple. Inland, North Devon has many diverse attractions, from the ancient landscape of Exmoor, forests and rural countryside, attractive market towns and villages, historic buildings and magnificent country houses and gardens. In 50 Gems of North Devon local authors Denise Holton and Elizabeth J. Hammett explore the many places and their history that make this part of the country so special.
50 Gems of the Black Country
The History & Heritage of the Most Iconic Places
Part of the 50 Gems series
The Black Country in the West Midlands currently covers the four metropolitan boroughs of Dudley, Wolverhampton, Walsall and Sandwell. The area became famous as a centre of manufacturing following the birth of the Industrial Revolution but there is much more to the area than its industrial heritage, although that has undoubtedly played a strong part in forging the shared history and identity of the area. 50 Gems of the Black Country takes the reader on a fascinating journey through the highlights of the area, which has many diverse attractions from its pre-Industrial Revolution history, through the legacy of coal mining and other mineral extraction, iron and steel works and other heavy manufacturing and the canals that aided these industries, to more recent attractions. Author John Shipley explores the many places, and their history, that make this part of the West Midlands so distinctive.
50 Gems of Nottinghamshire
The History & Heritage Of The Most Iconic Places
Part of the 50 Gems series
The historic county of Nottinghamshire offers many attractions within its borders. Sherwood Forest may be famous as the home of the legendary Robin Hood, but the county also contains the historic city of Nottingham and an industrial heritage that ranges from lacemaking to coal mining. Nottinghamshire was also the home of writers D. H. Lawrence and Lord Byron as well as the birthplace of the founder of the Salvation Army, William Booth. In 50 Gems of Nottinghamshire author Dave Mooney explores the many places, and their history, that make this part of the country so special, including natural features, buildings, annual celebrations and events unique to the county and places of historical interest. Alongside justly famous attractions, others will be relatively unknown but have an interesting story to tell. These range from natural splendours such as Cresswell Crags and Attenborough Nature Reserve, the beautiful Southwell Minster, to the Goose Fair and the Mushy Pea Stall and many more.
50 Gems of Cheshire
The History & Heritage Of The Most Iconic Places
Part of the 50 Gems series
The county of Cheshire holds many delights, from the wild moorlands of the Peak District to the gentler appeal of the Dee Estuary. Cheshire also boasts more than its fair share of heritage and history, from the ancient walled city of Chester to its distinctive rural villages of half-timbered buildings, as well as many ancient castles, houses and religious buildings that tell fascinating tales of the county's rich and varied past. 50 Gems of Cheshire is overflowing with awe-inspiring photographs and fascinating facts to draw you closer to the places you already know and love and to tempt you to discover new gems of your own.