Bournemouth in 50 Buildings

Bournemouth was once just heathland, but in 1810, Lewis Tregonwell built a house there, and in 1837, the railway reached the town, increasing the number of visitors. Victorian Bournemouth grew at a phenomenal rate, and authors Paul Rabbitts and Liz Gordon highlight the town's significant architectural landmarks in Bournemouth in 50 Buildings. The book covers a wide range of buildings, from churches to hotels, inns, houses, cinemas, and educational establishments, offering an engaging and valuable historical perspective on the town.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 96 pages
Publication date: 15 November 2020
Publisher: Amberley Publishing

Bournemouth, a beloved resort on the south coast, has a captivating history that dates back to the early nineteenth century. Initially, the area was merely heathland where cattle grazed. However, in 1810, a pivotal moment occurred when Lewis Tregonwell, widely regarded as the first inhabitant and founder of Bournemouth, visited the beach with his wife. Impressed by its beauty, she convinced him to build a house there. Tregonwell's vision for Bournemouth began to take shape as he acquired additional land, and landowners began planting pines on the heath. It was not until 1837 that a settlement officially formed, marking the beginning of the town's growth.

The arrival of the railway in 1870 revolutionized travel to Bournemouth, making it more accessible and attracting an increasing number of visitors. Victorian Bournemouth, marketed as a health resort, experienced phenomenal growth, and many of the new buildings that emerged during this period still stand today, serving as a testament to the town's architectural heritage. In their book, "Bournemouth in 50 Buildings," authors Paul Rabbitts and Liz Gordon showcase the town's significant architectural landmarks spanning centuries. Through a fascinating and diverse selection of buildings, they unravel the story of Bournemouth's development, its people, and their way of life. The authors have chosen an extensive range of structures, from grand and imposing to modest and charming, representing various architectural styles. Readers will embark on a journey to discover a plethora of landmarks, including churches, hotels, inns, houses, cinemas, and educational establishments. The book's scope is truly remarkable, encompassing a wide array of buildings that reflect Bournemouth's rich history and cultural diversity. From the picturesque beach huts and Boscombe Pier to the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum, as well as modern office blocks and workplaces, readers will be captivated by the town's architectural treasures. "Bournemouth in 50 Buildings" offers an engaging and valuable historical perspective on Bournemouth, providing a glimpse into its past and contributing to our understanding of its evolution.

Weight: 278g
Dimension: 166 x 233 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781445696157