This fascinating selection of photographs traces some of the many ways in which the capital’s major railway stations have changed and developed over the years.
Built as part of the massive expansion of Great Britain's railway network during the nineteenth century, London's thirteen mainline railway stations are proud symbols of the nation's industrial and architectural heritage. Produced in association with The National Archives, and profusely illustrated with period photographs and diagrams, London Railway Stations tells the story of these iconic stations and of the people who created them and used them. Though built in an age of steam, smoke, gas lamps and horses, most retain features of their original design. This book will bring new light to these old buildings, and help you to see London's mainline stations through new eyes. Lavishly illustrated with black & white and some colour photographs.
This book covers in pictures, the history and development of London's main terminal stations, looking at the stations through the lens of photographers from Victorian and Edwardian times through to the modern era. The main terminal stations in London have changed greatly in the last 150 years, this volume seeks through pictures to capture the spirit of those changes, showing the often interesting and colorful history of these great and often beautiful structures, that are an important part of our railway heritage.
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.