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Christian Wolmar

Cathedrals of Steam: How London's Great Stations Were Built - And How They Transformed the City

Cathedrals of Steam: How London's Great Stations Were Built - And How They Transformed the City

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  • More about Cathedrals of Steam: How London's Great Stations Were Built - And How They Transformed the City


Wolmar brings London's twelve great rail termini to life, showcasing their Victorian-era architecture and significance as the hub of the city's transport system. He explores their development, decline, and recent renewal, highlighting their impact on the local surroundings.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 04 November 2021
Publisher: Atlantic Books


London's twelve magnificent rail termini stand as enduring symbols of the Victorian era. In his captivating book, "London's Twelve Great Rail Termini," Christian Wolmar brings these historic landmarks to life with the expertise of an expert and the flair of a connoisseur. Simon Jenkins praises the book as a wonderful tour, filled with vivid incidents and surprising details.

London boasts an impressive tally of twelve major railway stations, surpassing any other city globally. These stations, ranging from grand and opulent, like King's Cross and Paddington, to modest and lesser-known, such as Fenchurch Street and Cannon Street, serve as the heart of London's transport system. Their development, decline, and recent renewal have profoundly shaped the city's history.

Constructed between 1836 and 1899 by competing private train companies driven by a fierce rivalry, the construction of these terminuses brought about significant upheaval and had far-reaching consequences for their surrounding areas. Once known as slums, these areas were demolished, green spaces and cemeteries were paved over, and vast marshalling yards, engine sheds, and carriage depots emerged in their place.

In his compelling and dramatic narrative, Christian Wolmar traces the evolution of these magnificent cathedrals of steam, offering unique insights into their history, interspersed with entertaining anecdotes. He also celebrates the recent transformation of several of these stations into remarkable blends of the old and the new, preserving their heritage while embracing modern innovations.

Through his meticulous research and captivating storytelling, "London's Twelve Great Rail Termini" provides a captivating journey through the city's railway heritage. Whether you are a railway enthusiast, history buff, or simply someone interested in exploring the rich tapestry of London's past, this book is a must-read.

Weight: 345g
Dimension: 198 x 129 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781786499226
Edition number: Main

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