Description

The route from London to Bristol connects two great cities, but what lies in between?

James Attlee, a frequent traveler on this line, discovers an unexpected wealth of stories along the way. Far from just passing through London’s western suburbs and the Thames Valley, Attlee uncovers a landscape rich with history and intrigue.

The line is steeped in tales of famous figures such as Charles I, Oscar Wilde, T.E. Lawrence, and Isambard Kingdom Brunel, among others. He also delves into the lives of the unsung heroes who keep the trains running, like the man who uses an owl to scare pigeons out of Paddington station.

Attlee explores the impact of travel on perception and the connections between railways, music, and literature. This is not a nostalgic look back at ‘heritage’ England but a forward-looking examination of how railways shape the future. As Britain embarks on a new era of rail construction, Attlee questions whether increased connectivity will fulfil the promises of prosperity made 175 years ago by Victorian engineers.

Author: James Attlee

Format: Hardback

Number of Pages: 352