The Real Counties of Britain

A look at each of the 86 counties of Britain. Each county's evolution, topography, architectural style, prettiest villages and famous people are detailed and a county calendar of events is provided. Specially commissioned Ordnance Survey maps show the real and the new county boundaries.

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This is a look at each of the 86 counties of Britain. The physical shape of the counties is looked at first with an emphasis on the natural features which have determined their shape. The history and culture of each county is then discussed. This includes the dramatic events that have left their mark in historical sites, ruined castles and enduring monuments, and those specialities and customs that have been handed down through the generations. Added to this is a look at the local architecture such as the tin mines of Cornwall, and the townscapes of Bath, Edinburgh, Liverpool or Cambridge. The classic sites such as Blackpool Tower and Cheddar Gorge are covered along with the prettiest villages that can be found off the beaten track. Ordnance Survey have created mapping specifically for the book. These show key routes as well as the existing and original county boundaries.