Historical Publications

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Historical Publications, founded in the 1970s, is the largest publisher of historical books on London and nearby towns. We have three distinct categories. One is the celebrated ‘Past’ series, which consists of histories of single areas – quite often the only modern history of some of them. Hornsey Past is a recent example. The books, profusely illustrated, are usually compiled chronologically and thematically. They are well researched, detailed histories. All of them are originally published in hardback.

We have also introduced A-Z format histories of some of the same areas, such as The Enfield Book, or The Ealing Book. Recently we have published Covent Garden and Soho: the illustrated A-Z historical guide and The Hampstead Book, covering two of London’s most visited areas. These are high-quality softbacks and again, are well illustrated.

We publish books on London themes. The Lost Rivers of London is a long-standing classic. Other theme books include Political London, Theatrical London, The Folklore of London and so on. We have recently published the definitive book on the Spas, Wells, and Pleasure-Gardens of London by Professor James Steves Curl. This was followed by an extended and newly-researched second edition of Subterranean City: Beneath the Streets of London, by Anthony Clayton, a wide-ranging survey of what goes on beneath the capital.

If you go through our list by clicking on Titles you will find there is a large choice. They can mostly be bought or ordered from bookshops, or by clicking on the Order link above or on each title's page.

Latest Titles

	Freemasonry & the Enlightenment: Architecture, Symbols, and Influences by James Stevens Curl This wide-ranging, thorough and beautifully illustrated study of Freemasonry's influence on Western culture puts into context a movement that has left a significant legacy. Professor Curl shows how aspects of Freemasonic ideas have permeated the design of buildings, parks, gardens, and cemeteries, as well as other art-forms from literature to the performing arts. An extensive glossary and bibliography provide additional detail on the complex ideas and iconography of Freemasonry. This title can only be ordered directly from Historical Publications More details and ordering information >
	Spas, Wells, and Pleasure-Gardens of London This is the definitive account of the old attractions of medicinal waters, spas and pleasure-grounds that abounded in London, mainly in the 18th century. It is racy, informative, humorous and well researched. It is described by one authority: 'This work of monumental scholarship on an enchanting theme explores comprehensively ... a vital part of the social and architectural history of Georgian London...' More >
	Subterranean City: Beneath the Streets of London The second, revised and much extended edition of this best-selling book, the most comprehensive account of what goes on beneath the streets of London. More >
	Covent Garden & Soho: The Illustrated A-Z Historical Guide A convenient, in depth, historical guide to two of London’s oldest, most atmospheric and lively districts. One is home to the Royal Opera and the stylish shops which have succeeded the old fruit and veg market. The other has long been the centre of London’s theatres, artists, artisans and louche pleasures. More >
	The Hampstead Book: The A-Z of its History and People The events, buildings and people that have shaped the history of this famous and attractive part of north London. More >
	The Vanished Coaching Inns of the City of London The 25 coaching inns of the City of London, essential to the whole system of stage coaches to and from the capital, reached their heyday at the beginning of the 19th century and then were made gradually redundant in the railway age. This is a colourful book about these lost institutions. More >

Forthcoming Titles

St Pancras Station

By Jack Simmons and Robert Thorne

This is the dramatic story of two great buildings heroically constructed in the midst of 19th-century London and then, in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, saved and restored – to their original use – by engineering and architectural skills worthy of their Victorian predecessors. Since the 19th century, St Pancras Station and the gothic revival Midland Grand hotel have been key landmarks. However, the station (with its unique single-span roof) became underused. The Midland Grand, overtaken by new more modern hotels, closed in 1935, and was shockingly vandalised by its then owners. Its supporters fought a campaign to prevent demolition: their success marked a change in officialdom's approach to London's architectural heritage. The station, the terminus of the Channel Tunnel Rail Link, HS1, and the hotel are now beautifully restored for use.

The first edition of this book by Jack Simmons appeared in 1968, as part of a campaign to save the buildings. Many people, including John Betjeman, were active in that battle. The second edition of the book we published in 2003, shortly after the decision to bring the Channel Tunnel Rail Link to St Pancras, but the future of the hotel was then still unknown.

This 3rd edition is the definitive account of the building of the unique station and hotel and their rescue and restoration. The late Jack Simmons was the pre-eminent transport historian of his day, and Robert Thorne, who has written two additional chapters bringing the story right up to date, is an architectural and engineering historian who has spent much professional time on the restoration project.

To be published 31 May 2012.

More >

The East End Book

By Richard Tames

An A-Z guide to the East End of London - an area which is undergoing enormous change all the way from Spitalfields to Stratford. This will be a portable, up-to-date reference work for residents and visitors, especially those to the Olympics, easy to use and with in-depth historical descriptions and many illustrations.

To be published 2012.