I requested this book to read with my history obsessed 9 year old daughter not realising that it’s definitely aimed more at adults than children (the Cerne Giant section mentions erect penises!) Having said that my daughter did enjoy reading about the many places linked with the King Arthur legends. The illustrations are beautiful, I would’ve loved more as only around a third of the locations have drawings. Interesting and informative, I’m sure this would make a much loved gift and would be re-read many times.

Thank you Netgalley, Collins and Jo Woolf for this ARC.

A fascinating book about some of Britain’s significant landmarks such as St Michael’s Mount, Glastonbury, Stonehenge and The White Cliffs of Dover. The author details the history, myths and legends surrounding these landmarks. Each region in the UK is included.

Britain’s Landmarks and Legends takes you on a tour through some of the most intriguing and unusual spots in England, Scotland, and Wales. Each place is given a lively description in terms of its history, folklore, mythology and other interesting associations - and many have beautiful illustrations accompanying them. I thought this was a much better choice than photographs, as the illustrations really capture the spirit of the places while leaving something for you to discover if you decide to venture out yourself.

There’s a mix of natural and man-made sites discussed that span across different centuries - popular sites like Sherwood Forest, Windermere, St Michael’s Mount make an appearance, and there’s also a good variety of less ‘famous’ sites, like the Great Stone of Lyng or the Isle of Staffa. It’s a great introduction to British lore as well as a handy guide for exploring! The writing style is engaging and the author’s skill as a storyteller really shine through. Here’s hoping for a companion Ireland/NI edition too!

This was a lovely book about landmarks, legends and folklore in a select few places in England, Scotland and Wales.
It was interesting to learn about the history of these places, some I had never heard of, and I’m particularly drawn to any folklore related to British history

This was easy to understand as well as having lovely illustrations which always enhances the experience in these types of history books

Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for this arc

Britain is steeped in so much history and legend, we’re lucky to have so many relics, landmarks and attractions which often accompany a story or myth.

This book sheds light on a select few landmarks that are found around Scotland, England and Wales and was a fantastic read, both entertaining and insightful. I really enjoyed reading about all of the stories and myths which often include tales of fairies, nymphs, the legends of King Arthur and romances of kings and queens of old. I’ve added a fair few sites to the ‘to visit’ list after this!

Also the illustrations on the pages were a real visual delight and added to the reading experience. It was super easy to read and interspersed with extracts of readings and poetry. I actually learnt a lot from this and a fair few nuggets of places I haven’t yet visited but sparked my curiosity and imagination.

It’s a fab book to have on your shelf and would be a worthy addition to all at home bookshelves. Especially if you find yourself intrigued by the wonders of the UK, love history and regularly frequent many of the amazing National Trust sites we have dotted around the country.

Thank you to NetGalley and Collins Reference for approving my request to read an arc of this book

I loved the illustrations and stories that went along with the different places, most I’d heard about but it was nice to read about them again.

Britain's Landmarks and Legends by Jo Woolf

The ultimate coffee table book . A wonderful book full of fascinating facts that will keep you returning to it for years.
Would also make a great present for the person who has everything.