Farnham in 50 Buildings

Farnham in Surrey, located south-west of London, has a Saxon settlement and a Norman motte-and-bailey fort. It experienced prosperity in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries with Georgian streetscapes and buildings. In the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, it expanded and continues to thrive today. Farnham in 50 Buildings explores the town's history through a selection of its most interesting buildings.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 96 pages
Publication date: 15 October 2023
Publisher: Amberley Publishing

Farnham, a charming town nestled in the picturesque Surrey countryside, lies southwest of London, overlooking the serene River Wey. While the original settlement dates back to the Saxon era, remnants of its past are scarce today. However, the town's history is rich and intriguing. Following the Norman invasion, the Bishop of Winchester constructed an earthen motte-and-bailey fort, strategically positioned to overlook the Saxon settlement. Over time, this fort was redeveloped into a magnificent stone castle, a testament to the town's architectural evolution. A significant portion of this castle still stands tall, a testament to the craftsmanship of its builders.

During the same period, St. Andrews Church emerged as a prominent landmark, adding to the town's architectural heritage. The town was laid out in a T-shape, surrounded by a town ditch, which partially remains today. The seventeenth and eighteenth centuries were a period of prosperity for Farnham, as it witnessed the construction of an extensive array of Georgian streetscapes and buildings. Prominent streets such as Castle Street, West Street, the Borough, and Downing Street emerged, showcasing the town's architectural splendor. Most of the Georgian fabric has been carefully preserved, making these streets a treasure trove of outstanding Georgian housing and public buildings.

The museum in Downing Street, along with the townhouse developments in West Street and Castle Street, are prime examples of the town's architectural excellence. The nineteenth and twentieth centuries saw further expansion and development of Farnham, with new buildings seamlessly integrated into the townscape. Many of the town's old industrial buildings have been repurposed, transforming them into cultural, commercial, or community spaces, adding to the town's vibrant character.

Farnham in 50 Buildings is a captivating exploration of the town's rich history through a selection of its most interesting buildings and structures. This book offers a glimpse into the changes that have shaped Farnham over the centuries, appealing to both residents and enthusiasts of the area. Whether you are interested in architecture, history, or simply want to discover the beauty of this charming town, Farnham in 50 Buildings is a must-read.

Weight: 288g
Dimension: 165 x 234 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781398111905