Great British Architecture

Discover the extraordinary stories written into Britain's historic buildings - and the people, power and ideas that shaped them.

From time-worn castles and cathedrals to tucked-away country churches and elegant stately homes, Britain is full of genuinely incredible - but often surprisingly overlooked - historic buildings. Laden with character, style and deep layers of heritage, these structures each represent something unique: they are the bearers of natural history, examples of our curious mishmash of architectural styles and monuments to civic pride, power and creativity.

Each of their stones tells a remarkable story, including:

St Magnus' Cathedral in Orkney, glowing with red sandstone and blending Norwegian, Norman and Gothic influences.

East Anglia and Scotland's medieval round-tower churches, ingenious responses to local geology and cultural exchange. Layer Marney Tower, a Tudor display of status showcasing rare Italian terracotta ornament. Woodchester Mansion, an unfinished Victorian Gothic masterpiece. St Edmundsbury Cathedral, where a 21st-century Gothic tower carries medieval craft traditions into the modern age.

Great British Architecture brings together the stories behind 86 great buildings from across the nation and, with illustrations throughout, celebrates their beauty, charm and national significance.